THE ISSUE
Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ (Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ) believes that all persons should have equitable access to a healthy environment in which to live, work, and learn. To that end, Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ encourages policies and practices that proactively recognize and equitably address the needs and concerns of underserved populations, including access to outdoor recreation spaces.
Background
Local and community parks and other outdoor recreation spaces contribute to the sustainability of the community and region through recreation, education, social interaction, psychological renewal, and connection with nature. Far too often, marginalized communities do not have adequate outdoor recreation space. This patterned exclusion within the built environment has harmful effects on households and the public and impacts physical and mental health, economic development, and community growth and cohesion.
Bill Summary
The Outdoors for All Act seeks to address the lack of adequate recreation space in underserved communities. Specifically, the bill will codify and establish a dedicated source of funding for the existing of the National Park Service.
This program will help fund project expenses for new parks, the renovation of existing recreation facilities, and development of infrastructure supporting outdoor education and public land volunteerism. Priority will be given to projects that take place within underserved communities, empower the youth in these communities, and significantly enhance access to parks and recreational opportunities.
Landscape architects are well-suited to access funding through the Outdoors for All Act to plan and design community park projects that help bridge the gap in underserved communities nationwide.
Recent Action
On February 15, 2023, was reintroduced and referred to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
On February 17, 2023, was reintroduced and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
On April 9, 2024, H.R. 1065 passed the U.S. House of Representatives as part of .
On December 19, 2024, H.R. 1065 passed the U.S. House of Representatives as part of .
On January 4, 2025, H.R. 1065 was signed into law as part of .
Sponsors
Senator Alex Padilla (CA), and .
Representative Nanette Diaz Barragan (CA), and .