The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee recently passed the America’s Outdoor Recreation Act, the first such legislation specifically aimed at the $862 billion outdoor recreation industry.
“We are so thrilled AORA continues to move forward in Congress, showcasing how the outdoor recreation economy transcends politics and benefits all Americans who enjoy the outdoors,” Jessica Wahl Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, said in a statement. “We … look forward to its continued progress through Congress this year.”
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, outdoor recreation contributes nearly 2% of national GDP and generates 4.5 million jobs.
“America’s Outdoor Recreation Act will bolster outdoor recreation access and opportunities for millions of Americans who continue to discover the benefits of the great outdoors and time spent on our nation’s lands and waters,” NMMA president and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer said in the statement.
Added Glen Hughes, president of the American Sportfishing Association: “The America’s Outdoor Recreation Act is a comprehensive set of provisions to ensure our public lands are well-managed and conserved to benefit the outdoor recreation economy and all those who love the outdoors.”
