hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Makes federal roads/trails open for motorized use by default.
Sponsored by Reps. Crank and Kennedy (Utah).
Introduced in House, referred to committees.
The 'Public Lands Access Restoration Act' aims to change how federal agencies manage motorized access on specific roads and trails, making them open by default. It was introduced by Representatives Crank and Kennedy of Utah and is currently being reviewed by the House Natural Resources and Agriculture Committees before any potential vote.
Introduced Mar 18, 2026
This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 18, 2026. It has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Agriculture for review. It must pass through these committees, get a vote in the full House, and then go through a similar process in the Senate before it can become law.
If passed, many federal roads and trails managed by the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management would automatically be open to motorized vehicles unless explicitly restricted. Federal agencies would need clear, convincing evidence (like for resource protection or public safety) and a public process to close such areas. Additionally, you could propose new motorized routes or the conversion of existing ones to the agencies at any time.
Supporters Say
Supporters believe this restores public access and recreational opportunities on federal lands.
Critics Say
Critics might argue it could negatively impact natural resources or public safety by making restrictions harder to implement.
Those in favor likely emphasize the bill's goal to ensure public use of federal lands for motorized recreation by changing the default assumption to 'open access.' Opponents may raise concerns that requiring agencies to prove the need for restriction, rather than starting with a more cautious approach, could put sensitive ecosystems or wildlife at greater risk, despite the bill allowing for restrictions based on resource protection.