Rounds Introduces Bill to Enhance Recreation on Federal Land

WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Superfund, Waste Management and Regulatory Oversight, today introduced the Guides and Outfitters Act (GO Act) in the Senate. The GO Act streamlines the recreation permitting process and allows for increased public access and recreation opportunities on federal lands.

“In South Dakota, outdoor recreation is part of who we are,” said Rounds. “Whether camping in the Black Hills, hunting in Brown County or fishing on the Missouri, we greatly value the natural resources that allow us to enjoy outdoor activities with family and friends. The GO Act will streamline the permitting process on federal lands, reducing the cost and complexity of applying for recreation and special-use permits. By getting rid of excessive red tape and bureaucracy, outdoor enthusiasts will have an easier time accessing federal land for the recreational activities we greatly cherish.”

The GO Act was written in close consultation with recreation groups across the country and passed the House of Representatives earlier this Congress. In addition to streamlining the permitting process, the GO Act caps permit fees, prevents federal agencies from imposing fees outside of federal lands and provides categorical exclusions for previously studied uses to eliminate duplicative studies that delay permits.

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