RESERVE Federal Land Act

The title changed from 'Equal Reservations' to 'Equitable Reservations,' shifting the policy framing from equality to equity throughout the bill.

'Reservation system' was renamed 'Federal reservation system' and redefined from a tool to 'ration recreation activities' to one that manages 'the quantity, type, distribution, and timing of recreational activities.' The word 'permit' was added to the list of included methods, and 'rationing methods' was replaced with 'management methods.'

'Paddling sports' was added to the definition of recreational activity.

The study is now conducted by 'the Secretaries, acting jointly' (Interior, Agriculture, and Army) rather than the Interior Secretary coordinating with the others. The NAS must also 'consult with the Secretaries' in carrying out the study.

A new research question was added asking whether Federal reservation systems pose barriers for certain communities, including international communities, and what the nature of those barriers is.

A new research question was added on how Federal reservation systems are incorporating emerging technologies such as geofencing, bots, third-party reselling websites, and resilience to cyber threats.

A new research question was added on reducing no-shows during high-demand periods and whether increasing first-come-first-served opportunities would improve equitable access.

The report deadline changed from 18 months after enactment to 18 months after the agreement with the NAS is entered into, which could extend the timeline since the agreement must be signed within 60 days of enactment.

Question (iii) on demographics now includes 'unsuccessful applicants' in addition to successful ones, broadening the data collection scope.

A new sub-item (iv) was added to the history review requiring examination of scientific literature or studies on the efficacy of Federal reservation systems, including user preferences on design and implementation.