Modernizing Access to our Public Waters Act of 2025
Bill targets one-stop online maps for federal waterway access and fishing rules nationwide
MAPWaters Act of 2025
Signed Into Law
This legislation has been enacted.
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- Creates one national standard so federal agencies collect and share water access and fishing rule data in the same way
- Requires agencies to put clear online maps showing where boats, swimming, and other activities are allowed or restricted
- Makes agencies post locations and open/close dates for boat ramps and fishing access sites, plus depth charts when possible
- Puts federal fishing rules, like closed zones and gear limits, onto public maps that are updated quickly when rules change
- Says this does not change who controls water or fishing rights and does not open or close any waters that are different from today
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
How this policy affects specific groups of people
Milestones
Became Public Law No: 119-62.
The President signed it. This is now the law of the land.
Signed by President.
The President signed it. This is now the law of the land.
Presented to President.
Both chambers passed identical text. The President has 10 days to sign it into law or veto it.
Message on Senate action sent to the House.
Passed Senate without amendment by Voice Vote. (consideration: CR S8766-8768)
The Senate voted to approve this bill. If the House already passed it, it goes to the President.
Vote Results
1 voteOn Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended
Related News
8 articles
MAPWaters Act Heads to President's Desk for Signature
Lawmakers voted overwhelmingly for the MAPWaters Act of 2025, which would require Interior and the Forest Service to create unified online maps of where boating, swimming and fishing are allowed on federal waterways.
The Federal Government Is About to Make Public Waterway Rules Way Less Confusing
Marine industry groups praised the MAPWaters Act for directing Interior and the Forest Service to publish consistent online maps of ramps, channels and restricted areas, helping boaters navigate federal waters.
MAPWaters Act Would Digitize Information On Federal Waterways, Improving Access
Field & Stream breaks down how the MAPWaters Act of 2025 would create a national standard for mapping federal water access, outlining how quickly ramp openings, seasonal closures and gear restrictions must be updated online.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
MAPWaters Act of 2025
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(3)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.