H.R. 1380: Protecting America’s Rock Climbing Act
Summary
H.R. 1380, introduced on February 13, 2023, by Representative Mariannette Miller Meeks (R-IA), is a bill to designate certain federal lands as “Rock Climbing Areas” and to provide for the protection and management of these areas.
Background
Rock climbing is a popular outdoor recreation activity enjoyed by millions of Americans. However, access to rock climbing areas on federal lands is often limited by land management regulations and closures.
H.R. 1380 aims to address this issue by establishing a process for designating Rock Climbing Areas on federal lands. These areas would be managed to protect the climbing resources and to provide access for climbers.
Key Provisions
- Designation of Rock Climbing Areas: The bill would direct the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to designate Rock Climbing Areas on federal lands managed by their respective agencies.
- Protection of Climbing Resources: Rock Climbing Areas would be managed to protect the natural and cultural resources that climbers value, including rock formations, vegetation, and wildlife.
- Access for Climbers: The bill would provide for reasonable access to Rock Climbing Areas for climbers, including the use of fixed anchors and other climbing equipment.
- Public Input: The bill would require public notice and comment on the designation of Rock Climbing Areas.
Benefits of the Bill
H.R. 1380 would provide a number of benefits, including:
- Increased access to rock climbing areas on federal lands
- Protection of climbing resources
- Support for the outdoor recreation economy
- Promotion of physical activity and mental well-being
Support for the Bill
H.R. 1380 has received support from a number of organizations, including:
- Access Fund
- American Alpine Club
- Climbing Business Journal
- International Federation of Sport Climbing
Current Status
H.R. 1380 is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. It has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Agriculture.
Conclusion
H.R. 1380 is a bipartisan bill that would provide important protections for rock climbing areas on federal lands. The bill would increase access for climbers, protect climbing resources, and support the outdoor recreation economy.
H.R. 1380 (RH) – Protecting America’s Rock Climbing Act
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