Biden Signs EXPLORE Act Reforming Filming Permits

President Joe Biden has signed the EXPLORE Act into law, which includes the FILM Act, significantly easing permit requirements for small commercial photography and videography projects in U.S. National Parks. The new law allows groups of six or fewer to film without a permit as long as they meet specific criteria, such as not disturbing other visitors or the park's resources. This change comes after a lawsuit from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression and the National Press Photographers Association challenged the previous permit system as unconstitutional. While larger commercial projects still require permits, the fees are now mandated to be reasonable based on project specifics. The act aims to promote outdoor recreation and enhance public access to national parks while safeguarding visitor experiences and natural resources. Overall, this legislation reflects a bipartisan effort to modernize recreational policies and support small businesses dependent on public lands.