Join CAMTB to Support the California OARE Act (AB 2578)
Prioritize Access to Nature and Outdoor Recreation for all Californians
Tell the California State Assembly to prioritize access to nature, responsible recreation, and outdoor recreation jobs for all Californians.
Despite boasting a staggering $87.9 billion outdoor recreation economy—the largest of any state in the US—California currently ranks near the bottom when it comes to equitable outdoor access.
Join the California Mountain Biking Coalition (CAMTB) in supporting the Outdoor Access and Recreation Economy (OARE) Act to change the landscape of California’s outdoors.
The Outdoor Access Gap in California
While our state is famous for its natural beauty, the reality is that many residents are being left inside. In 2024, the numbers painted a stark picture:
- Only 50% of Californians participated in outdoor activities.
- Nearly 9 million residents (roughly a quarter of the population) lack access to a park within half a mile of their homes.
A growing national movement has helped other states overcome similar barriers. Currently, 24 states have established dedicated entities – such as an “Office of Outdoor Recreation” – to ensure residents can enjoy nature regardless of their zip code, all while boosting local economies and public health.
California, however, has yet to take this vital step.
What is the OARE Act?
Given the profound mental, physical, and economic health benefits associated with the outdoors, Assemblymember Chris Rogers (AD 2) recently introduced AB 2578: The Outdoor Access and Recreation Economy Act.
If passed, this bill will bridge the access gap by:
- Promoting Equitable Access: Ensuring all Californians have fair and easy access to outdoor spaces.
- Building Outdoor Economies: Fostering local economic development through outdoor tourism and recreation.
- Establishing State-Level Support: Providing the crucial funding needed to create an entity (like an Office of Recreation) dedicated solely to the health of California’s outdoor economy and recreation workforce.
Take Action: Support AB 2578 Today
We are thrilled to launch the OARE Act! AB 2578 is proudly sponsored by the California Outdoor Recreation Partnership (CORP), Mammoth Lakes Trails Public Access Foundation (MLTPA), and CAMTB.
Now, we need your voice.
Join us in Cooperative Action with REI Co-op to ensure this historic bill passes.
