Active Transportation for Public Lands Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Huffman, Jared [D-CA-2]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 27, 2026
Bottom line
The bill reallocates a minimum of 5% of federal land transportation funds to enhance and expand infrastructure for walking, biking, and other non-motorized access on public lands.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that the Secretary of Transportation set aside a minimum of 5 percent of funds from two existing programs—the Federal Lands Transportation Program and the Federal Lands Access Program—specifically for active transportation projects. Active transportation is broadly defined to include infrastructure for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non-motorized forms of transport, as well as safe routes for non-drivers and the conversion of abandoned railroad corridors into trails.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill will significantly enhance public access to federal lands for a wider range of users, promoting healthier lifestyles, recreational opportunities, and environmental sustainability by encouraging non-motorized travel. They contend it addresses a historical underinvestment in active transportation infrastructure within federal lands, making these areas more inclusive and accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals with disabilities.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that mandating a set-aside reduces the flexibility of federal land management agencies to address their most critical transportation needs, which could include maintaining existing roads for motorized vehicles, emergency services, or resource management. They may contend that diverting a fixed percentage of funds could lead to deferred maintenance or underfunding of other essential infrastructure, potentially impacting access for those who rely on vehicles.
The bill is very short and clear, making it highly accessible for a reader to understand its core provisions and implications quickly.
Section 2, amending Section 201 of title 23, United States Code, by adding subsection (f)
Mandated Set-Aside for Active Transportation on Federal Lands
This provision requires the Secretary of Transportation, for each fiscal year, to combine and dedicate at least 5 percent of the funds authorized for the Federal Lands Transportation Program (Section 203) and the Federal Lands Access Program (Section 204) specifically for active transportation projects. It defines 'active transportation' to encompass a wide range of projects, including the construction and design of on-road and off-road trail facilities for pedestrians and bicyclists, infrastructure for non-motorized transportation, safety-related improvements like signals and lighting, projects to achieve ADA compliance, safe routes for non-drivers (children, older adults, individuals with disabilities), and the conversion of abandoned railroad corridors into trails.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision ensures that federal lands are accessible and enjoyable for all types of users, promoting health, recreation, and environmental sustainability by encouraging non-motorized transport. It addresses a current funding imbalance where motorized transport often receives the lion's share of infrastructure investment, leading to a more equitable distribution of resources.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that mandating a set-aside reduces flexibility for land managers to address their most pressing transportation needs, which may include maintaining existing roads for vehicle access, emergency services, or resource management. They might argue that a fixed 5% could be better spent on other priorities based on local conditions and visitor demographics.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the needs of motorized vehicle users with those of pedestrians and bicyclists on federal lands. It aims to increase non-motorized access and safety but does so by reallocating funds that could otherwise be used for traditional road infrastructure, creating a tension between different modes of transport and their respective advocates regarding optimal resource allocation.