H.R. 7979 · In committee · Public Lands and Natural Resources

Public Lands Access Restoration Act

What it does

Presumes motorized access is permitted on designated Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management roads and trails within 180 days of enactment, unless the Secretary restricts access based on clear and convincing evidence for resource protection or public safety.
Requires restrictions on motorized access to be posted with signage, depicted on updated official maps, subject to Federal Register notice and 30-day public comment, reviewed at least every 5 years, and applied to the smallest practicable area and duration.
Directs the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service to accept and prioritize public proposals for additions to designated motorized road and trail networks, including conversion of closed administrative roads.
Requires expedited review of proposals to convert administrative or currently closed roads to designated motorized trails, completed within 90 days of submission.

Mar 26, 2026: Subcommittee Hearings Held

Committee: House Federal Lands Subcommittee