NRPA Statement on Implementation of the EXPLORE Act

Kristine Stratton, president and CEO of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), issued the following statement in response to the implementation of the EXPLORE Act:

"NRPA applauds Secretary Doug Burgum and the Department of the Interior for their leadership in advancing the implementation of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act - landmark legislation that passed Congress with unanimous, bipartisan support and was signed into law in January 2025.

In late 2024, NRPA celebrated the passage of the Outdoors for All Act, which is part of the larger EXPLORE Act package. This legislation permanently authorized the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) Program, providing dedicated funding to improve and expand access to parks and recreation spaces, particularly in under-resourced communities. NRPA looks forward to working with the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service to fully implement the Outdoors for All Act.

We say it often because it matters: Everyone - regardless of ZIP code - deserves access to high-quality, close-to-home parks and green spaces. This latest action represents a major leap forward for our more than 60,000 dedicated members and advocates who work every day to ensure access to nature, recreational opportunities, and resilient, thriving communities across both urban and rural landscapes.

We are deeply grateful to the Congressional champions of the EXPLORE Act, the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, our coalition partners, and most importantly - our members and allies - for their relentless advocacy and commitment. This milestone is a direct result of your passion, perseverance and purpose."

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About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates - the catalysts for positive change in service of equity, environmental resilience, and health and well-being. For more information, visit nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA's flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit parksandrecreation.org.