[Congressional Bills 110th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 186 Engrossed in House (EH)]


                In the House of Representatives, U. S.,

                                                         June 27, 2007.
Whereas coastal areas produce 85 percent of all United States tourism dollars 
        and are the leading tourism destination in America;
Whereas the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that over 50 
        percent of the population of the United States lives in coastal 
        counties;
Whereas according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the 
        beaches in these coastal counties provide recreational opportunities for 
        numerous Americans and their families who, together with international 
        tourists, make almost 2 billion trips to the beach each year to fish, 
        sunbathe, boat, swim, surf, and bird-watch;
Whereas according to the Army Corps of Engineers, United States beaches are a 
        critical driver of the American economy and its competitiveness in the 
        global economy;
Whereas beaches represent a critical part of our natural heritage and a 
        beautiful part of the American landscape;
Whereas beaches are sensitive ecosystems, susceptible to degradation and 
        alteration from pollution, sea level rise, natural forces, untreated 
        sewage, and improper use;
Whereas members of the government, the private sector, and nongovernmental 
        organizations, along with citizen volunteers, have worked diligently to 
        clean up and protect our beaches over the years;
Whereas according to the United States Geological Survey, great strides have 
        been made in understanding the science of watersheds and the connections 
        between inland areas and coastal waters, and science-based policy should 
        be developed that is commensurate with this knowledge; and
Whereas a 7-day week commencing in June, and including July 5, will be observed 
        each year as National Clean Beaches Week: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved,  That the House of Representatives--
            (1) supports the goals and ideals of National Clean Beaches Week;
            (2) recognizes the value of beaches to the American way of life and 
        the important contributions of beaches to the economy, recreation, and 
        natural environment of the United States;
            (3) encourages all Americans to work to keep beaches, which are a 
        critical part of the natural heritage of the United States, safe and 
        clean for the continued enjoyment of the public;
            (4) expresses a renewed appreciation for the beaches of the United 
        States and an invigorated effort to protect them with updated, 
        integrated policy; and
            (5) encourages individuals to engage in activities during National 
        Clean Beaches Week to encourage stewardship and volunteerism along our 
        coastlines.
            Attest:

                                                                          Clerk.