Rep. Gabbard Passes Bipartisan Bill to Increase Access to Public Lands

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard voted to pass bipartisan legislation that expands opportunities for children in Hawai‘i and across the country to access and enjoy public lands.

The Every Kid Outdoors Act would provide America’s fourth graders and supervising adults free entrance to all federally managed land, waters, and historic sites, including more than 2,000 national parks. The legislation passed the House by a vote of 383-2.

The Every Kid Outdoors Act is supported by the Outdoors Alliance For Kids, National Recreation and Park Association, Sierra Club, YMCA of the USA, The Wilderness Society, National Park Trust, Girl Scouts of the USA, National Wildlife Federation, Trust for Public Land, and the Outdoor Industry Association.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said, “In Hawai‘i, we’re so fortunate that our home is filled with natural and historic treasures from breathtaking Haleakalā National Park to the incomparable Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokaʻi. Yet, unfortunately too many children are unable to enjoy these opportunities due to economic barriers. Our bipartisan legislation seeks to eliminate some of these barriers, encouraging healthy and active lifestyles, raising awareness about our nation’s cultural and natural treasures, and inspiring life-long stewardship of our planet.”

The Every Kid Outdoors Act can be viewed online.