WHAT IS THE EXPLORE ACT?

Recreational boaters and outdoor enthusiasts in Florida know that access is everything. Whether you are launching your boat at a ramp or docking at a marina, the ability to get out on the water freely and conveniently is vital. On June 25, 2025, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum signed a Secretarial Order implementing the bipartisan Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act, known as the EXPLORE Act. This significant development is making waves across the $230 billion recreational boating sector and the broader $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy.

This article explains what the EXPLORE Act is, why it matters for Florida boaters, and how its implementation will positively impact Florida communities now and in the future.

WHAT IS THE EXPLORE ACT

The EXPLORE Act is a landmark bipartisan legislative package passed in late 2024 and signed into law on January 4, 2025. Its full name is the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act. The Act modernizes federal recreation policy with core goals of expanding access to public lands and waters, streamlining permitting processes, and funding infrastructure improvements, especially in gateway communities around parks, water access points, and trailheads.

Key features include

• Simplifying and standardizing digital permits, recreation passes, and fees through unified online systems

• Improving recreational permitting for outfitters, guides, filmmakers, and outdoor businesses via streamlined processes

• Funding trail bikeway campground infrastructure and broadband expansion at key recreation sites

• Protecting access for paddlers, anglers, and hunters with modernized processes

• Prioritizing accessibility, including programs for youth veterans and people with disabilities

• Strengthening gateway community economies that depend on outdoor recreation

WHY IT MATTERS FOR FLORIDA BOATERS

As the state with more than 920,000 registered boats, Florida is the boating capital of the world. For Florida boaters, the EXPLORE Act delivers real benefits:

IMPROVED RAMP ACCESS AND INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING

The EXPLORE Act directs federal agencies to collaborate with state and local governments to fund improvements to boat ramps, docks, marinas, and parking at high‑traffic recreation spots. This means long-awaited upgrades to popular sites, such as Tampa Bay marinas, Everglades access points, and Gulf Coast inlets.

STREAMLINED PERMITTING

Boatyards, guides, and marinas can expect simpler permitting for events, tours, and group excursions, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

DIGITAL PASSES AND CONNECTIVITY

The Act establishes unified digital recreation pass systems, allowing boaters to pay fees and reserve launch times online, thereby reducing on-site hassle. Expanded broadband at marinas enhances communication, navigation, and safety.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND GATEWAY DEVELOPMENT

This legislation strengthens ties between federal sites and local gateway communities. Florida coastal towns and lakefront areas can expect investment in infrastructure, events, trail development, and marketing to attract visitors.

ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION

With programs for veteran youth and people with disabilities, the EXPLORE Act supports adaptive boating clinics, training, and equipment grants, fostering greater equity in water access.

IMPACT ON FLORIDA COMMUNITIES AND BUSINESSES

LOCAL ECONOMY BOOST

Florida businesses, including boatyards, outfitters, marinas, guides, and hospitality services, can expect increased traffic revenue and job creation as infrastructure upgrades draw more visitors. The outdoor recreation industry in Florida is valued at $58 billion, contributing 3.6 percent of the state’s GDP.

SMALL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Simplified permitting supports small, locally owned marinas and guides, enabling them to host events, tours, or film projects that were previously cost-prohibitive.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

Updated infrastructure, such as marked launches, docks, and trails, will help limit erosion, reduce habitat damage, and enhance recreational safety.

COMMUNITY HEALTH

Greater boating access supports physical and mental well‑being. Studies show outdoor recreation improves health outcomes and community resilience.

GATEWAY COMMUNITY REVIVAL

Towns adjacent to recreation hubs will benefit from new investment partnerships and amenities, reviving local economies.

WHAT FLORIDA BOATERS SHOULD DO NEXT

• Follow local agencies, including U S Fish and Wildlife Parks and National Marine Sanctuaries, for funding and construction schedules

• Get involved in public input periods for ramp expansion, marina improvements, and digital pass rollouts

• Participate in adaptive and youth programs supported by the EXPLORE Act

• Support small local marinas, guides, and outfitters as they benefit from streamlined permitting

• Share your feedback with congressional representatives, stressing the importance of water access infrastructure in your community

CALL TO ACTION

We invite Florida boaters, passengers, and friends to share their thoughts

• What launch sites in Florida need expansion or upgrades

• How digital passes could improve your boating experience

• Ideas for community youth outreach or adaptive boating programs

Your insights help Let’s Go Boating advocate for prioritized funding and policy implementation in your local area.

The EXPLORE Act presents a moment of opportunity for the boating community by accelerating infrastructure projects, simplifying processes, and enhancing access both digitally and physically. For Florida boaters, it means easier ramp access, improved safety and connectivity, and a stronger local economy, reviving towns from Panama City to the Keys. Boating is not just a pastime; it is a way of life and a vital part of Florida’s culture and economy. The EXPLORE Act helps ensure that life on the water remains accessible, inclusive, and sustainable for all.

SHARE, COMMENT, AND ENGAGE

Please comment on which sites to upgrade or programs to launch. Share this article so your boating community can engage. Together, we can ensure our voices are heard as implementation unfolds. Let’s Go Boating, have fun, stay safe, and enjoy all the EXPLORE Act has to offer.