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Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023

3/12/2024, 11:45 AM

Summary of Bill S 1161

Bill 118 s 1161, also known as the Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023, aims to improve public access to private lands for recreational purposes. The bill encourages landowners to voluntarily open up their lands for activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching.

The legislation provides incentives for landowners to participate in the program, including liability protection and financial assistance for creating and maintaining access points. By increasing access to private lands, the bill seeks to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities for the public while also promoting conservation and land stewardship.

The Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023 has received bipartisan support in Congress, with lawmakers recognizing the benefits of expanding public access to private lands for recreational purposes. The bill is seen as a way to strengthen the relationship between landowners and outdoor enthusiasts, while also promoting the responsible use of natural resources. Overall, the Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023 aims to increase opportunities for outdoor recreation, promote conservation efforts, and foster positive relationships between landowners and the public.

Congressional Summary of S 1161

Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023

This bill reauthorizes through FY2028 and increases funding for the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program. This Natural Resources Conservation Service program provides state and tribal governments competitive grants to encourage owners and operators of privately-held land (i.e., farm, ranch, and forest land) to allow public access for hunting, fishing, and other wildlife-dependent recreation.

Current Status of Bill S 1161

Bill S 1161 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since March 30, 2023. Bill S 1161 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on March 30, 2023.  Bill S 1161's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. as of March 30, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 1161

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
8
Democrat Cosponsors
6
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 1161

Primary Policy Focus

Agriculture and Food

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 1161

Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023
Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2023
A bill to amend the Food Security Act of 1985 to reauthorize the voluntary public access and habitat incentive program.

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