The marine industry is applauding the advancement of two pieces of legislation that strengthen the $1.1 trillion outdoor recreation economy
The Lake Access Keeping Economies Strong Act was included in the 2024 authorization of the Water Resource Development Act. The legislation is authorized every two years and includes all programs and projects under the jurisdiction of the Army Corps of Engineers.
The inclusion of LAKES in WRDA is a step forward in ensuring that public recreation access offered by the Corps is maintained at a level adequate to support the visitation that these sites experience annually.
National Marine Manufacturers Association president Frank Hugelmeyer said in a statement:
“On behalf of the $230 billion recreational boating industry, our more than 800,000 workers and the nearly 100 million Americans who enjoy our nation’s waters each year, the National Marine Manufacturers Association applauds chairmen Sam Graves (R-Mo.) and David Rouzer (R-N.C.) and ranking members Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) and Grace Napolitano (D-Calif.) for their leadership on the Water Resource Development Act of 2024. This strong bipartisan bill includes several key provisions that expand public recreation access, advance the $1.1 trillion outdoor economy and support the important work of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a leading provider of public recreation across corps-managed lakes, reservoirs and navigable waterways. NMMA strongly supports H.R. 8812 and urges swift bipartisan passage on the house floor.”
Additionally, the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act passed the House of Representatives. The bill would increase access at public facilities across the country. The next step would be passing the senate as an inclusion via amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act.
In a letter to Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Hugelmeyer stated: “Among other benefits, the EXLPORE Act modernizes technology to improve visitor experiences through increasing broadband connectivity and creating digital recreation passes. The legislation also streamlines the permitting process and reduces fees for small businesses that depend on public land access. Finally, the legislation improves accessibility for military service members, veterans, individuals with disabilities and kids.
“The inclusion of the EXPLORE Act as an amendment to NDAA will increase outdoor recreation opportunities for all Americans, will support the small businesses that make up the recreation economy, and will bolster the outdoor economy that plays a pivotal role in our nation’s health, wellness and economic vitality,” he added.
