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Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2025
3/19/2025, 3:08 AM
Summary of Bill S 704
The bill seeks to reauthorize funding for this program, which has been successful in increasing access to private lands for outdoor enthusiasts while also promoting wildlife conservation and habitat preservation. By providing financial incentives to landowners who participate in the program, it helps to ensure that these lands remain open for public use and enjoyment.
The Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program has been widely supported by both conservationists and outdoor recreation enthusiasts, as it helps to expand access to outdoor activities while also benefiting wildlife and habitat conservation efforts. This bill aims to continue and strengthen this important program, ensuring that it can continue to provide these benefits for years to come.
Congressional Summary of S 704
Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act of 2025
This bill reauthorizes through FY2029 and increases funding for the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP). 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.
The bill also reauthorizes through FY2029 VPA-HIP funding to encourage public access to land covered by wetland reserve easements through agreements with states and tribal governments.
Read the Full Bill
Current Status of Bill S 704
Bipartisan Support of Bill S 704
Total Number of Sponsors
3Democrat Sponsors
0Republican Sponsors
3Unaffiliated Sponsors
0Total Number of Cosponsors
2Democrat Cosponsors
1Republican Cosponsors
1Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 704
Primary Policy Focus
Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 704
Comments

Kara Hutchinson
9 months ago
I think this bill is good for our land and animals. It helps people who like to hunt and fish. This bill is important for our environment. Everyone benefits from this bill.



