OAK’s Policy Platform and Recommendations for the Biden-Harris Administration
OAK’s current federal policy platform can be found here. We are currently in the process of adopting our Biden-Harris Administration Recommendations – when finalized, they will be linked here.
See OAK’s printable Federal Policy Fact Sheet here.
OAK Poll: Views on Raising Fees in Parks
On October 24, 2017, the Administration announced a proposal to raise entrance fees in our National Parks. OAK commissioned a bipartisan national poll to better understand views of raising national park entrance fees to $70 per vehicle. The bipartisan poll results demonstrate that the public has major concerns with the proposal. (Released: 12/20/17)
OAK Webinars & Recorded Events
Fatima’s Great Outdoors Storytime Live Event
Co-hosted by OAK and Penguin Kids
A storytime book reading and conversation with Ambreen Tariq, author of a new children’s book, Fatima’s Great Outdoors! The discussion and Q&A, moderated by OAK Co-Chair and Founder Jackie Ostfeld, focused on getting more kids out in nature, as well as the importance of making the outdoors a place where everyone can see themselves.
(Event recorded: 4/7/21)
Public Playspaces: Guide to Open Safely and Equitably
Co-Hosted by OAK, NRPA, Kaboom!, and the CDC
This webinar provided critical information on providing safe spaces to play for kids and families as communities reopen during COVID-19, with a focus on ensuring equitable access. The webinar also discussed general guidance, including defining close-to-home recreation, the physical and mental health benefits of accessing the outdoors, and a review of guidance on outdoor camps, classes and programming.
(Webinar recorded: 6/24/20)
State Policy to Support Environmental & Outdoor Education
Sponsored by the Blue Sky Funders Forum in collaboration with OAK and NAAEE; featuring the Honorable John Sarbanes, Representative of Maryland’s 3rd District.
Discussion topics include: No Child Left Inside Act, Every Student Succeeds, Maryland’s Task Force on Children and Nature, Oregon’s Outdoor School for All.
(Webinar Recorded: 9/12/17)
Every Kid Outdoors Act with Congresswoman Niki Tsongas
Hosted by Blue Sky Funders Forum, OAK, and NAAEE; featuring the Honorable Niki Tsongas, Congresswoman for the 3rd District of Massachusetts and Will Shafroth, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation
Discussion topic: In July 2017, the Every Kid Outdoors Act was introduced with bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress. The legislation would codify the Every Kid in a Park program by formally establishing a federal program to give free access passes to fourth graders and their families to explore America’s national lands, waters, and shores. Federal land management agencies launched the Every Kid in a Park initiative in 2015 to help engage and create our next generation of park visitors, supporters, and advocates. This webinar shared insights on the new legislation and updates on the impact of the Every Kid in a Park program.
(Webinar Recorded: 7/26/17)
Congressional Briefing on Getting Every Child Healthy Outdoors
Co-hosted by OAK and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Representative Niki Tsongas (D-MA-3), Representative Scott Tipton (R-CO-3), and Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO-1). Sponsored by the National Recreation and Park Association.
Discussion topics include: Every Kid in a Park program, Every Kid Outdoors Act, the federal budget, education, community health and wellness and environmental stewardship.
(Briefing Recorded: 7/11/17)
OAK Letters and Policy Statements
OAK regularly communicates with the Administration and Members of Congress about our policy priorities through letters or leave behind materials.
View OAK Letters and Policy Statements
Outdoors Alliance for Kids 