Public Lands Legislation Update: March 2026 Overview
Public Lands Legislation Update: March 2026 Overview
As March 2026 unfolds, several important bills and hearings are shaping the future of public lands management across the United States. This post offers a clear, objective summary of the most relevant developments, focusing on access, transparency, and balanced use on federal and state lands.
Key Federal Bills & Hearings
-
H.R. 7979 – Public Lands Access Restoration Act
On March 26, 2026, the House Subcommittee on Federal Lands held a legislative hearing on this bill. It would create a presumption that existing roads and trails on BLM lands remain open for motorized use unless the Secretary of the Interior finds clear and convincing evidence that a closure is needed for resource protection or public safety. The bill also requires public notice and periodic reviews for any future closures. -
Public Lands in Public Hands Act (H.R. 718)
This bill continues to advance and would require congressional approval for the sale or transfer of certain federal lands exceeding 5,000 acres, helping preserve public access for recreation and multiple uses. -
Modernizing Access to our Public Waters Act
Signed into law in December 2025, this legislation directs federal agencies to digitize water and fishing access information on federal waterways, improving transparency for anglers and boaters.
State-Level Developments
In Oregon, the Senate advanced Senate Bill 1590 in February 2026 (17-11 vote). Sponsored by Sen. Anthony Broadman (D-Bend), the bill prohibits state agencies from assisting federal land sales or transfers to private parties (excluding tribes), aiming to protect public lands from privatization while maintaining multiple-use principles.
What This Means for Public Land Users
These developments emphasize clearer procedures for road and trail management, greater transparency in land decisions, and stronger protections against large-scale privatization. For hikers, hunters, anglers, and campers, the changes could result in more predictable access to trails, waters, and dispersed camping areas, along with improved digital tools for planning trips.
Useful Resources for Staying Informed
- Congress.gov: H.R. 7979 – Full text and hearing details
- Congress.gov: H.R. 718 – Public Lands in Public Hands Act status
- BLM Statement on H.R. 7979 – Official agency position
- Oregon Capital Chronicle: SB 1590 Update – State-level protection bill coverage
Stay tuned as these bills move forward. Sign up for our newsletter for objective updates, guides from our series, and advocacy tips.