The EXPLORE Act: Uniting Bipartisan Support for Outdoor Access and Equity
In a time of political division, it can be rare to find issues that garner bipartisan support. However, the recent passing of the EXPLORE Act by the 118th U.S. Congress has proven that expanding access to the outdoors is one such issue. The sweeping legislation aims to develop new long-distance bike trails, improve outdoor access for veterans and people with disabilities, and address housing shortages in outdoor gateway communities. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that the bill received unanimous approval from both the House and Senate.
“The goal is that we’re growing the recreation economy for all recreation. So the hikers and bikers and hunters and anglers and skiers and snowmobilers and boaters and ATVers — we’re looking at what we all agree on. And we all agree on access for everyone,” said Jessica Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.
The bipartisan support for the EXPLORE Act is a testament to the unifying power of outdoor recreation. Republican Representative Bruce Westerman of Arkansas and Democratic Representative Raúl Grijalva from Arizona, who sponsored the bill, emphasized how outdoor access has the ability to bring people with different interests and priorities together.
The passage of the EXPLORE Act is part of a larger trend of bipartisan support for outdoor initiatives. In 2020, the Great American Outdoors Act, which addressed maintenance projects in national parks and made permanent the Land and Water Conservation Fund, was passed with significant support. This history of bipartisan cooperation reflects a shared appreciation for the value of outdoor spaces and activities.
At the state and local levels, organizations like Trust for Public Land are working to pass conservation-related measures that benefit communities across the country. These initiatives have seen widespread success, with all 23 conservation-related ballot measures in the November election passing.
The economic impact of outdoor recreation, which has grown into a $1.2 trillion industry supporting over 5 million jobs, has undoubtedly played a role in garnering political support. However, the emotional connection that people have to the outdoors is equally important. Many of the individuals involved in advocating for the EXPLORE Act have personal connections to nature and outdoor activities, making this issue one that transcends political divides.
The success of the EXPLORE Act has demonstrated the power of bringing together diverse stakeholders in support of a common goal. By emphasizing the shared values of access to the outdoors, clean water, and conservation, the bill was able to achieve broad appeal. Moving forward, advocates for outdoor access see an opportunity to address related issues such as climate change and justice by framing the conversation around people’s lived experiences and emotional connections.
As we look towards a more sustainable and equitable future, the EXPLORE Act serves as a reminder of the potential for bipartisan collaboration on issues that benefit both people and the planet. By prioritizing outdoor access and conservation, we can create a more inclusive and resilient society for generations to come. Protecting open spaces, creating parks, and developing green infrastructure are crucial steps in preparing for the impacts of climate change. According to Bybee, these measures are nonpartisan issues that everyone can agree on, regardless of their views on climate change. The tangible realities of flooding, fires, drought, and heat are undeniable, and investing in outdoor recreation and access to nature is a common goal that benefits all communities.
The EXPLORE Act, a comprehensive package of measures aimed at improving outdoor spaces, recently passed with unanimous support. One key component of the act was the Outdoors for All Act, which expanded the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grant program to include Indigenous tribes for the first time. This program provides funding for developing and improving parks in underserved communities, as well as enhancing amenities like trailheads and pit toilets that enhance the outdoor experience for visitors.
Despite the overwhelming bipartisan support for the EXPLORE Act, challenges remain in securing federal funding for these initiatives. Recent turmoil over federal funding and staffing cuts has cast some doubt on the future of programs like the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership. However, Bybee and other advocates remain confident that these programs will continue to benefit communities as intended by Congress.
While political divisions can sometimes hinder progress, the passage of the EXPLORE Act demonstrates that lawmakers can come together to support initiatives that improve their constituents’ lives. By setting aside partisan differences and focusing on the common goal of enhancing outdoor spaces, lawmakers can make a positive impact on their communities.
In a special issue dedicated to the outdoors, leaders in climate and conservation shared their formative outdoor experiences that inspired their careers. These stories highlighted the transformative power of nature and the importance of ensuring that everyone has access to the outdoors. By fostering a love for the outdoors in all communities, we can create a shift towards greater care and stewardship of the environment.
Overall, investing in outdoor spaces and green infrastructure is a crucial step in preparing for the impacts of climate change. By prioritizing access to nature and enhancing outdoor amenities, we can create a more resilient and sustainable future for all communities. Title: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. With the rise of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, people are spending more time than ever before scrolling through their feeds, posting updates, and engaging with others online. While social media has many benefits, such as connecting people from all over the world and providing a platform for self-expression, there is growing concern about its impact on mental health.
One of the most significant ways that social media can impact mental health is through comparison. When scrolling through carefully curated feeds filled with images of seemingly perfect lives, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and even depression. Research has shown that heavy social media use is associated with negative body image and increased feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Additionally, the constant stream of information and notifications on social media can be overwhelming and lead to feelings of anxiety. The fear of missing out (FOMO) is a common phenomenon among social media users, as they constantly feel the need to stay connected and up-to-date with what others are doing. This pressure to always be “on” can have a detrimental impact on mental health, causing stress and burnout.
Another way that social media can impact mental health is through cyberbullying. With the anonymity that the internet provides, people may feel emboldened to say hurtful things to others online. Cyberbullying can have serious consequences for mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and even thoughts of suicide.
Despite these negative impacts, social media also has the potential to be a force for good when it comes to mental health. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become spaces for people to share their struggles with mental health and find support from others who may be going through similar experiences. Social media can also provide access to resources and information about mental health issues, helping to reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help.
Ultimately, the impact of social media on mental health is complex and multifaceted. While it can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and isolation, it can also provide a sense of community and support for those struggling with mental health issues. It’s important for individuals to be mindful of their social media use and prioritize their mental well-being by setting boundaries, taking breaks, and seeking help when needed. Additionally, it’s crucial for social media platforms to take responsibility for creating safe and supportive online environments for their users. Only by working together can we harness the positive potential of social media while mitigating its negative impact on mental health.
