WeVote
Log In

Bill

JC

Bill

HR 7979

Public Lands Access Restoration Act

119th Congress Introduced by Jeff Crank and 1 co-sponsor

HR 7979 expands public access to federally managed lands, affecting recreation, resource extraction, and conservation priorities on 28% of U.S. territory.

Subcommittee Hearings Held
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 7979

Legislative bill overview

HR 7979, the Public Lands Access Restoration Act, seeks to expand public access to federally managed lands, likely addressing restrictions on recreation, grazing, logging, or other uses on public lands controlled by agencies like the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service. The bill has been referred to both the Natural Resources and Agriculture committees, indicating it affects multiple land management authorities and stakeholder groups.

Why is this important

Public lands represent approximately 28% of all U.S. land and generate significant economic activity through tourism, resource extraction, and recreation. Access policies directly affect rural economies, conservation priorities, and the balance between commercial use and preservation of natural resources, making this a consequential issue for multiple constituencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental vs. extractive use balance: Conservation groups may oppose expanded access if it permits increased logging, grazing, or mining, while industry advocates push for broader commercial opportunities
  • Local control and federal authority: Disputes over whether access decisions should be made by federal agencies, Congress, or state/local governments with economic interests in public lands
  • Recreation access specificity: Unclear whether the bill prioritizes motorized recreation (ATVs, snowmobiles) versus non-motorized activities, which generates competing demands from different user groups

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.