ORBA relaunches with expanded advocacy strategy, new leadership and industry tools
The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) has officially relaunched with a renewed focus on advocacy, coalition-building, and data-driven insights to protect off-road access and strengthen the powersports and broader off-road industries.
The organization announced March 25 that it is expanding its capabilities with enhanced research, stronger partnerships and updated membership offerings designed to better serve industry stakeholders, including those in dirt bikes, ATVs, UTVs, trucks and SUVs.
While ORBA’s core mission remains unchanged — advocating for responsible access to public lands and supporting the off-road business community — the relaunch signals a more strategic and collaborative approach moving forward.
“No single organization can achieve our advocacy goals alone,” ORBA leadership said in a statement. “The future of off-road access depends on strong coalitions, shared expertise and coordinated action. We are always stronger together.”
New leadership
As part of the relaunch, ORBA has named Sean P. Holman as interim executive director and Laura Butcher as legislative director. Karen Bailey-Chapman, senior vice president of public and government affairs for SEMA, will continue to lead strategy implementation.
The transition also marks the retirement of Fred Wiley, who played a key role in ORBA’s development and history.
Stronger ties with SEMA, grassroots network
A key component of ORBA’s renewed strategy is deeper alignment with the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), including leveraging its government affairs expertise and the reach of the SEMA Action Network.
Through these connections, ORBA aims to support nonprofit partners and advocacy groups operating at the local, state and regional levels, bringing additional resources and coordination to on-the-ground efforts.
The organization will also continue to align with SEMA’s Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) council to strengthen industry collaboration.
Key initiatives
ORBA outlined several priority areas as it begins its next chapter:
Public land access advocacy
The organization will continue monitoring and submitting comments on federal, state and administrative actions that impact off-road access. Current areas of focus include the Western Mojave plan, Johnson Valley and Moab’s Labyrinth Rims/Gemini Bridges Travel Management Plan.
Federal legislation support
ORBA is backing multiple federal initiatives, including the Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act, the Public Lands Access Restoration Act and expanded funding for the Recreational Trails Program. These efforts are expected to be central topics during SEMA’s upcoming Washington Rally.
EcoLogic Partners collaboration
ORBA will maintain its involvement in EcoLogic Partners, a coalition that includes the American Motorcyclist Association District 37 and the American Sand Association. The group recently supported litigation that successfully challenged efforts to close OHV access at Oceano Dunes in California.
Regional economic impact research
In a shift toward more localized data, ORBA plans to produce four regional economic impact reports across the U.S. in 2026 and 2027. These reports are intended to help policymakers better understand the economic contributions of off-road recreation at the community level.
Expanded coalitions
Rather than replacing existing advocacy groups, ORBA emphasized its role in supporting and amplifying their efforts through shared campaigns, legislative initiatives and industry education.
Stewardship and rider education
The organization is also doubling down on land stewardship and rider education, positioning both as critical to preserving access and building credibility with land managers and policymakers. ORBA said responsible riding practices and education can help reduce conflicts, prevent trail closures and ensure long-term sustainability.
Enhanced member benefits
As part of the relaunch, ORBA has introduced upgraded membership tiers that include expanded communications, branded content opportunities across ORBA and SEMA Action Network channels, and access to consumer research tools.
Advocacy remains the cornerstone of membership value, with the organization aiming to provide businesses with stronger representation on regulatory and legislative issues impacting the industry.
Looking ahead
With new leadership, expanded partnerships and a more data-driven approach, ORBA is positioning itself to play a larger role in shaping the future of off-road recreation and access in the United States.
The relaunch comes at a time when access to public lands remains a critical issue for the powersports industry, making coordinated advocacy and industry alignment increasingly important.
