Topic/Keyword: Policy

8 Ways the EXPLORE Act Positively Impacts the Outdoor Industry

The signing of the EXPLORE Act into law by President Biden on January 4, 2025 marks a monumental leap forward for public lands, outdoor recreation, and local communities nationwide. This landmark legislation reinforces America’s commitment to ensuring that everyone—regardless of ability or background—can experience the wonder of our nation’s outdoor spaces.

Here are eight reasons why the outdoor industry is celebrating the EXPLORE Act becoming law:

1. Increased Access for Veterans, Persons with Disabilities, and Youth

EXPLORE introduces tailored programs to enhance outdoor access for military veterans, individuals with disabilities, and youth. Initiatives such as accessible trail development, assistive technologies, and programs like the extension of the Every Kid Outdoors Act ensure opportunities for exploration and recreation for everyone. These efforts acknowledge the healing power of nature, the importance of fostering a love for the outdoors in younger generations, and the need to make the benefits of being outdoors universally available.

2. Simplified Permitting for Outdoor Activities

‘Red tape’ has long hindered the growth of outdoor recreation and made it hard for guides to do their jobs and take people into the outdoors. By reforming the permitting process, the EXPLORE Act makes it easier for businesses, guides, and organizations to operate across federal lands. Streamlined multi-jurisdictional permits foster seamless access for outfitters and adventurers alike.

3. Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) Funding

The ORLP program receives a critical boost, paving the way for the revitalization of urban parks and outdoor recreation facilities. This funding ensures that underserved urban areas benefit from the same opportunities for outdoor engagement as rural communities.

4. Federal Interagency Council on Outdoor Recreation (FICOR) Support

With a renewed focus on coordination between federal agencies, EXPLORE strengthens FICOR, fostering collaborative efforts to enhance visitor experiences, improve recreation infrastructure, and optimize the management of public lands. FICOR is a coalition of federal agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, and the Interior, that work together to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities and access on public lands and waters. This coordination drives efficiency and ensures sustainable enjoyment of natural spaces.

5. Preservation of America’s Rock-Climbing Areas

EXPLORE formally recognizes rock climbing as a vital recreational activity and establishes guidelines to protect climbing areas, including the maintenance of fixed anchors. These provisions safeguard climbing opportunities while ensuring compliance with wilderness preservation laws.

6. Support for Gateway Communities

EXPLORE invests in gateway communities—towns adjacent to public lands—by addressing housing shortages, infrastructure needs, and economic development. These communities often serve as the front door to America’s outdoor spaces, and this support strengthens their ability to accommodate visitors sustainably.

7. Empowering Sustainable Visitation Through Data

A Real-Time Data Pilot Program ensures visitors can access accurate, up-to-date information about park crowding and conditions. By diverting visitors to lesser-known sites, the program alleviates overcrowding at popular destinations and promotes sustainable recreation practices.

8. Funding for Recreation Infrastructure Maintenance

From campsite restoration to new trails, EXPLORE directs significant funding toward addressing the maintenance backlog on federal lands. This ensures long-term sustainability and improved access for future generations.

The EXPLORE Act represents a significant milestone in the effort to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for outdoor recreation. By addressing barriers to access, empowering local communities, and investing in infrastructure and conservation, EXPLORE ensures that public lands and waters remain a source of inspiration and opportunity for everyone. Outdoor spaces play a vital role in our lives, and this legislation paves the way for future generations to create meaningful connections with and take responsibility for our public lands and waters.

Your outdoor business can help advocate for policies like EXPLORE that protect the future of outdoor spaces and our industry. Engage with OIA Advocacy today.

4 Key Post-Election Policy Implications for the Outdoor Industry

The 2024 election resulted in a dynamic political landscape with significant policy implications for outdoor industry businesses, particularly in overseas manufacturing and exporting. During our industry-wide webinar this December, OIA convened policy experts, government affairs representatives, and attendees to share insights and answer questions about tariffs, trade policies, and broader regulatory challenges under the new administration. Read on for key takeaways from the session and answers to some of the industry’s most pressing questions.

Key Takeaways

The outdoor recreation industry contributes $1.2 trillion to U.S. GDP and supports over 5 million jobs, underscoring its importance as an economic driver.

Early and consistent engagement with the new administration and 119th Congress is critical to ensure the industry’s voice is heard on issues like trade, public land management, and sustainability.

Businesses should prepare for potential new tariffs on China, Vietnam, and Mexico, emphasizing the need for supply chain diversification and proactive communication with policymakers and consumers.

Circularity, product durability, and recyclable materials are becoming regulatory priorities, offering both challenges and opportunities for companies to innovate.

Leveraging robust economic and sustainability data is essential for advancing policy goals and demonstrating the industry’s contributions.

Tariffs and Trade Policy

How soon could the administration implement tariffs on outdoor products?

The administration is expected to act quickly on tariffs, with announcements potentially coming as early as Inauguration Day. Tariffs targeting countries with significant trade deficits, such as China, Vietnam, and Mexico, are anticipated. Businesses should be prepared for swift changes.

Should manufacturers move operations out of China?

While moving operations out of China may help mitigate risks, it’s important to avoid over-reliance on a single alternative, such as Vietnam, which may also face tariffs. Companies are encouraged to adopt a diversified multi-country sourcing strategy and consider onshoring and nearshoring opportunities to reduce dependency on high-risk regions.

Mitigating Tariff Impacts

What can companies do to mitigate the impacts of increased tariffs?

Diversifying supply chains is critical. Businesses should explore sourcing alternatives, including domestic production. Additionally, clear communication with consumers about the impacts of tariffs—such as breaking down costs on receipts—can raise awareness and drive advocacy.

Will there be reforms to the 321 Program?

Changes to the de minimis program under Section 321 are likely, with restrictions expected on categories like apparel and footwear. Companies should monitor legislative developments to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Advocacy and Engagement

How can companies advocate for their policy priorities and when should they engage with the new administration?

Early engagement is essential. Advocacy efforts should begin as soon as the administration and Congress take office, emphasizing the industry’s economic contributions and the impacts of proposed policies. Coordinated campaigns, like participation in OIA’s Capitol Summit, are effective in amplifying these efforts.

Will there be opportunities for coordinated advocacy efforts?

Yes, coordinated advocacy initiatives, such as Capitol Summit and coalition campaigns, will provide platforms for engaging policymakers. Businesses are encouraged to join these efforts to ensure their voices are heard. OIA is here to facilitate any advocacy efforts that members are interested in.

Broader Sustainability and Regulatory Trends

Do you see a shift in how retailers approach sustainability and climate goals?

Retailers were the among the first to incentivize sustainable practices, such as circularity, setting targets for emissions, and reduced packaging, from their supplying brands. After the election, there has been no indication that outdoor retailers will de-emphasize their sustainability and climate goals. They are committed to science-based targets and still have to comply with European regulations.

What trends in sustainability should companies prepare for?

Regulatory focus is shifting toward circularity, with initiatives like California’s textile circularity laws paving the way. Businesses should prepare to align with sustainability goals through durable, repairable, and recyclable product designs. European regulation if often reflected in emerging state regulations, so supply chain traceability and data transparency could also be on the horizon.

Looking Ahead

The post-election environment presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. Tariffs, trade policies, and sustainability regulations will require strategic planning and advocacy. By staying informed and engaged, companies can navigate these changes effectively, ensuring resilience and long-term success.

You can watch the full webinar recording here. For further discussion or questions, feel free to reach out to ga@outdoorindustry.org or join our upcoming webinars to stay ahead of policy developments!

Webinar: Post-Election Landscape: Mobilizing Outdoor Industry Advocacy in 2025

Learn what the 2024 election outcomes mean for your business. Watch our webinar recording with OIA’s government affairs team to learn about the 119th Congress and the state of play for key outdoor industry policy priorities in 2025. Experts discuss new BEA economic data, ways to engage policymakers, mobilize advocacy networks, and catalyze trade, recreation, and sustainability policy impacts in the year ahead.

TRADE POLICY 101: DEMYSTIFYING SUPPLY CHAIN AND CUSTOMS COMPLIANCE

Live Date: Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Supply chain management and customs compliance policy can be daunting. Designed specifically for those new to trade policy, this final session in OIA’s Capitol Summit Series provides you with the insights and tools to successfully navigate the world of international trade, including supply chain logistics, customs regulations, and trade policy. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of key concepts including import/export procedures, tariff classifications, trade agreements, and regulatory compliance. Our panel of seasoned experts and industry reps share real-world experiences, best practices, and actionable tips to help you better understand your supply chain operations and ensure compliance with customs requirements.

EVERY VOICE COUNTS: WHAT IT TAKES TO BUILD OUTDOOR ACCESS FOR ALL

Live Date: May 14, 2024

Move equity in the outdoors forward and learn actionable ways to align your business strategy to inclusive growth. In this edition of OIA’s Capitol Summit Series, we dive into the challenges and solutions surrounding equitable outdoor recreation access, from policy solutions to grassroots advocacy and action. Hear from leaders in the outdoor industry and community advocates to learn what outdoor equity looks like from grassroots to grasstops. Whether you’re interested in federal advocacy or motivated to act locally, you’ll leave this session with tools to come together and catalyze meaningful change.

The Essentials of Advocacy: Navigating Your Path to Impact

Webinar date: May 7, 2024

Watch our webinar recording and learn how to advocate for the long-term health of the outdoors, outdoor participants, and your company’s bottom line. Industry policy experts share in-depth exploration of the policy landscape, why it’s relevant to your business, and how you can drive change at scale. From conservation and public lands management to sustainability initiatives and equitable access, we explore the key policy areas that impact our industry. Watch our webinar to feel empowered and ready to raise your voice.

Webinar: Consumer Products Legal Trends: PFAS, Greenwashing, and Class Actions

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Members-Only Webinar: Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. (MT)

Please join OIA and Ballard Spahr for this partner webinar. Especially in the outdoor industries, many companies have tried to improve their environmental stance and, understandably, make those efforts public. The recent wave of litigation relating to PFAS (aka “forever chemicals”) has taken aim at common marketing claims—such as labeling products as “sustainable,” “organic,” or “natural”—when trace amounts of PFAs are allegedly found. Federal and state regulations targeting PFAS in both the environment and consumer products have further complicated the legal landscape. Luckily, there are practical steps that companies can take to mitigate these risks while still recognizing the benefits of their environmental advancements. This webinar will discuss the unique compliance and legal challenges facing the outdoor industry related to PFAS and greenwashing claims, as well as basic steps companies can take.

Webinar: Going Green, For Real: What the FTC’s Green Guides Mean for Your Brand

Members-only Webinar

Live Date: July 25, 2023 at 10 am MT

Consumer interest in supporting environmentally conscientious products continues to influence purchasing decisions and, with it, brands’ product development and marketing strategies. The Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Green Guides provide information to brands and retailers on avoiding unfair or deceptive environmental-related marketing claims. As the number of claims has been increasing on more types of products, concerns about consumer fraud have also grown.

The FTC issued record million-dollar penalties against some major retailers for deceptive environmental claims in 2022 and began an overall public review process of the Green Guides late last year. The claims being assessed include those that related to: Carbon Offsets and Climate Change, Compostable, Degradable, Ozone Safe / Ozone Friendly, Recyclable, Recycled Content, Energy Use / Energy Efficiency, Organic, Sustainable and Regenerative. As part of its ongoing review, FTC held a workshop on “recyclable” claims on May 23.

Experts Allie Sauers, associate, international trade at Sorini, Samet & Associates, Akshay Sinha, senior advisor, global policy development and Asia-Pacific affairs at Sorini, Samet & Associates, and Maria Celis, Of Counsel at Neville Peterson LLP and General Counsel at JO Cosmetics will provide background on the current Green Guides, the FTC’s objectives in the review underway and scope for public comment, and the likelihood of revisions and rulemaking. The webinar will also look at developments at the State level and related developments in the European Union. Attendees will leave this session with a better understanding of the current Green Guides landscape and how it could impact their brand strategy.

Together we are a force for collective action. Join us.

The View from Capitol Summit: What Happened and Where We’re Venturing Next

We used our outside voices, and our industry was heard loud and clear.

Live from the Hill, we want to extend our greatest thanks to all our sponsors, business leaders, elected officials, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts for joining us in our nation’s capital for our annual Capitol Summit!

As the outdoor industry’s catalyst for meaningful change, we’re passionately committed to doing the work to advocate for the economy, inclusion, participation, and the health of the planet. Over the past few days, OIA galvanized the community around our advocacy priorities – and we’re just getting started.

Read on for a recap of what went down at Capitol Summit, and a guide to opportunities for further advocacy.

Sustaining Outdoor Traditions and Public Land Stewardship for Economic Growth is Possible

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland invigorated attendees with her inspiring and encouraging keynote presentation about the implementation of the recently passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Great American Outdoors Act. A member of the Pueblo of Laguna and the first Native American to serve in a cabinet secretary position, Haaland shared her perspective on the critical importance of the outdoor industry – not only to thriving communities, but also to a thriving economy.

“That’s what the Outdoor Industry Association is all about. It’s about sustaining outdoor traditions that help our communities to thrive – hunting, fishing, climbing, hiking, and everything in between – while working together to protect incredible places for future generations.

And your dedicated efforts don’t just help steward public lands and waters for the enjoyment of all, they also have a significant and undeniable impact on our nation’s economy!

Jobs in outdoor recreation ensure families can put food on the table, create diverse revenue streams for communities, and bring new opportunities to lesser-known outdoor spaces.”

— Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland

Eric Raymond, Director of Social Impact and Advocacy at The North Face, introduced the Secretary to Capitol Summit attendees, sharing “Secretary Haaland is a true inspiration, a tireless advocate for our planet, and for people from all walks of life. She is a fierce and passionate advocate for environmental justice, climate action, outdoor recreation, and conservation. And she does this all in service of future generations. We could not be more grateful for Secretary Haaland’s leadership and for her enduring support of the outdoor industry and our shared values.”

Collective Voices and Actions on Common Ground Issues

USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Xochitl Torres-Small educated attendees on the critical importance of rural development and agriculture to the health of the outdoor economy, while outdoor business and advocacy leaders from Conservation Alliance, Outdoor Alliance, REI Co-Op, Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project, Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, Maine Outdoor Brands, VF Corporation, KEEN Footwear, NEMO Equipment, and Vista Outdoor explored how to take action on equity, trade, and climate policy at varying governmental levels.

We also had the chance to share our OIA team’s expertise. OIA’s President, Kent Ebersole; Director of Government Affairs, Rich Harper; State and Local Government Affairs Manager, Rebecca Gillis; Policy Fellow, Hannah Wintucky; COO Dr. Arlene Charles; and Outdoor Foundation’s Executive Director Stephanie Maez led discussions on the outdoor industry’s top policy priorities, including:

Recreation and conservation policies like the America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA) and Farm Bill.

Balanced trade policy that enables innovation and sustainable evolution like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and miscellaneous tariff bills (MTBs).

Additional legislative opportunities to increase equitable access to and participation in the outdoors.

“Every member of Congress and their staff has a favorite place in the outdoors and a favorite outdoor activity. You may not agree on every issue, but you can always start a conversation and that can lead to some common ground. And in a divided Congress, with a contested presidential election coming up, the ability to begin a conversation is more important than ever. Your voice will elevate and enhance our advocacy here in Washington, D.C. throughout the year – and we will support you and your business as you continue your engagement on these issues in your local communities and states,” said Rich Harper, Director of Government Affairs, OIA.

Narrowing the Nature Gap

Our OIA and Outdoor Foundation team partnered with Friends of Anacostia Park to host a community gathering centered on outdoor equity, access, and inclusion. Attendees built relationships with local community leaders, discussed challenges like the Nature Gap, and learned collective impact strategies for breaking down barriers to outdoor access, as exemplified by the work of organizations like Outdoor Foundation and Friends of Anacostia Park.

Thrive Outside Community Gathering

And the Outdoor Industry Award Goes to…

During our Friend of the Outdoor Industry Award reception, Representative Nanette Barragán, Senator Joe Manchin, and Representative Adrian Smith were recognized for enduring commitment to the outdoor industry, public lands, and international trade and climate policies that promote the growth and success of outdoor businesses.

Representative Barragán (D-CA)

Rep. Barragán is dedicated to protecting our public lands and waters and investing in initiatives to expand access to the outdoors for all Americans – regardless of zip code. A tremendous champion for equitable access and opportunity, she is a lead sponsor of the ‘Outdoors for All Act,’ which is designed to provide much-needed funding for urban green spaces.

“I am honored to receive the Friend of Industry award from the Outdoor Industry Association. OIA’s work to support outdoor access and park equity for communities of color and low-income communities is critical for the health and well-being of our communities, and the environment. I look forward to our continued efforts to pass the Outdoors for All Act, fight climate change, and close the nature equity gap in Latino communities and communities of color,” said Rep. Barragán.

Senator Manchin (D-WV)

Senator Manchin played an instrumental role in the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act’s $369 billion in new funding for climate solutions and infrastructure. Additionally, his sponsorship of the America’s Outdoor Recreation Act – the most comprehensive outdoor recreation package since the Kennedy administration – is instrumental for the future of our industry and access to our public lands and waterways for the record number of outdoor participants.

“It is an honor to accept this award from the Outdoor Industry Association,” Senator Manchin said. “OIA has a strong history of advocating for America’s public lands and our beautiful outdoor spaces. As an avid outdoorsmen and son of Wild and Wonderful West Virginia, some of my proudest moments in Congress have been working to protect and conserve the American traditions of hunting, fishing, hiking and more. I look forward to continuing to work with OIA to ensure that future generations are able to enjoy and fall in love with the great outdoors as we all have,” said Senator Manchin.

Representative Smith (R-NE)

Rep. Smith is a long-time champion of the outdoor economy and OIA’s balanced trade agenda. He led the effort to add travel goods to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), resulting in $300 million in duty savings annually for outdoor companies and a $5 billion shift of trade out of China.

“I’m honored to receive this award. A strong outdoor industry needs sound trade policy to level the playing field and compete fairly in the global marketplace. We must continue to aggressively pursue American interests to the benefit of businesses, manufacturers, and consumers alike,” said Rep. Smith.

Advocacy Next Steps

Together with our fellow outdoor industry business leaders, collaborators, and Congressional supporters, we made tremendous progress on our unwavering effort to advocate for the outdoor economy, outdoor participation, and our planet.

But our work doesn’t end here, and neither do your opportunities to get involved and be a part of the movement.

Here’s how you can continue to use your outside voice to be an advocate wherever you are – from The Hill in D.C. to the hills in your hometown:

Download our Advocacy Handbook: Gain insight into how OIA builds and mobilizes advocacy networks on the intersectional issues that impact our industry, and how you and your company can get involved.

Register for our Virtual Advocacy Session on May 11, 2023: Our Government Affairs team will unveil its 2023 policy agenda, and share how you and your company can engage policy makers and support the long-term health of the outdoors, outdoor participants, and company bottom lines.

Reach out to our Government Affairs team! Learn about OIA’s member-only networking, education, and convening opportunities that align with your outdoor company’s growth strategy; explore the option of joining one of OIA’s advisory councils; and start brainstorming how your businesses can understand and apply lobbying and advocacy actions.

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More than ever, with urgency and swift action, OIA is committed to its work as a catalyst for meaningful and positive change for the outdoor industry, its people, and its planet. We’re using our outside voice to advocate for balanced trade policy; sustainable business solutions; and expanded, safe access to the outdoors for this generation and many more to come. Join us.

Webinar: Collective Action on Outdoor Access, Conservation, and Trade: Unveiling OIA’s 2023 Policy Agenda

Watch on-demand!

Live Date: May 11, 2023 at 12 pm MT

On behalf of, and in partnership with our members, OIA builds and mobilizes advocacy networks on intersectional issues of equitable access, trade, climate, and conservation policies for incentives and funding at the federal and state level to create jobs, invest in recreation infrastructure, save money, expand outdoor access for all, and protect our environment.

After a successful fly-in in Washington, D.C. in April, join OIA’s government affairs team as we formally launch our 2023 federal and state and local policy agenda. In this session, we’ll cover recent wins for the outdoor industry and our goals and advocacy campaigns for 2023. We’ll share how you and your company can engage policy makers to tell your stories, ask for resources, represent our industry’s values, for the long-term health of both the outdoors, outdoor participants, and company bottom lines.