Let’s help every body access our natural wonders.
Last year, the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act became law - marking the most significant investment in public lands and outdoor recreation in over 60 years. Along with many partners, REI worked to shape the EXPLORE Act with a focus on accessibility for every body. But for the 1 in every 4 Americans living with a disability passing the law is just the beginning.
Through its Access for People With Disabilities provisions, the EXPLORE Act includes powerful provisions to make outdoor spaces more accessible. It requires federal agencies to work directly with outdoor enthusiasts with disabilities to improve access to trails, campsites, water activities, climbing areas, and more. It also supports adaptive equipment, signage, and facilities that make outdoor experiences possible for everyone.
For Veterans, the EXPLORE Act expands access to healing outdoor experiences by funding adaptive trails, rental equipment and more - improvements that will greatly benefit every body.
Now, we need Congress to take the next step and fund these improvements in the FY2026 budget.