Public Lands Access Restoration Act

H.R. 7979 would change how the public can access federal lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Currently, these lands operate under a more restrictive policy that has been in place since 2005. This bill would restore an older "open unless posted closed" approach, meaning roads and trails on these public lands would be presumed open to motorized recreation unless land managers specifically restrict access. Restrictions could only be imposed based on clear evidence of a need to protect natural resources or ensure public safety, and would need to be clearly marked with signage and shown on official maps. The bill would also allow the public to nominate trails for inclusion in motorized recreation networks, and would require agencies to review any restrictions every five years to determine if they remain justified. Supporters argue this would expand recreational opportunities and benefit local economies that depend on outdoor recreation tourism.