A bill to prohibit Big Cypress National Preserve from being designated as wilderness or as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System, and for other purposes.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would permanently prevent Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida from being officially designated as "wilderness" or added to the National Wilderness Preservation System — the federal program that gives lands the highest level of protection under U.S. law. Wilderness designation typically comes with strict rules that can significantly limit or ban motorized vehicles, off-road vehicles, and certain other human activities in an area.

By blocking this designation, the bill would preserve the current rules and access conditions at Big Cypress, which has historically allowed activities like off-road vehicle use, hunting, and airboat travel — activities that are generally restricted or prohibited in federally designated wilderness areas. Supporters of such a bill typically argue it protects the rights of local residents, recreational users, and indigenous communities who rely on access to the land. Those who might oppose it often argue that wilderness designation would provide stronger environmental protections for the ecosystem.

Big Cypress National Preserve covers roughly 729,000 acres in South Florida and is home to unique wetland ecosystems, wildlife, and is culturally significant to the Seminole and Miccosukee Tribes. The bill would primarily affect recreational users (such as off-road vehicle enthusiasts and hunters), tribal communities, local residents, and environmental and conservation groups with interests in the area.

The bill was introduced in the Senate, held a subcommittee hearing, and was advanced by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee with some modifications, meaning it has cleared an important early step but has not yet become law.