FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 16, 2023
BOULDER, Colo. – Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) interim Executive Director Kent Ebersole today released the following statement celebrating the reintroduction of “America’s Outdoor Recreation Act” in the Senate:
“After building significant support for the legislation in the last Congress with lawmakers, industry leaders and other stakeholders, we are thrilled to see Senators Manchin and Barrasso reintroduce this historic comprehensive outdoor recreation bill. This package would provide meaningful support for outdoor recreation opportunities across the country at a time when a record number of Americans are getting outdoors and benefitting from the mental and physical health benefits these spaces provide.
“Federal outdoor recreation legislation will have a real impact on the ability of all Americans – regardless of zip code – to spend time outside and will bolster the $862 billion outdoor industry and its 4.5 million jobs in communities across all 50 states.
“We applaud these forward-thinking lawmakers for their leadership and commitment to improving access to America’s lands and waters. We also greatly appreciate the strong interest from Houses members—including Reps. Curtis and Neguse—in producing similar bipartisan companion legislation. We were very excited to learn this week of plans for a legislative hearing in the House to consider several bills that could be incorporated into the House version of this legislation. We thank House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Westerman and Ranking Member Grijalva for prioritizing this legislation and taking action in their committee to move us closer to final passage of this important legislation.”
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About the Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry. For more than 30 years, OIA has served as the trusted convenor, resource, and voice of the outdoor industry. OIA unites and serves manufacturers, suppliers, sales representatives, and retailer members through its focus on trade and recreation policy, sustainable business innovation, and outdoor participation. The association provides its members with insights, advocacy, and opportunities for action that support the long-term success of outdoor businesses and ensure the outdoor experience for all. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.
