[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 93 (Friday, June 29, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1264-E1265]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        THE OUTFITTER POLICY ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES V. HANSEN

                                of utah

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 28, 2001

  Mr. HANSEN. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to introduce, today, the 
Outfitter Policy Act, which will create a statutory authority for 
permit terms and conditions across America's public lands.
  Millions of Americans recreate on America's public lands every year, 
and the services of Outfitters and guides allow our constituents to 
access many areas of our public lands that would otherwise be 
inaccessible. These are families and civic groups learning to enjoy and 
respect nature, including horse pack trips and float trips, which many 
of us have enjoyed.
  Unfortunately, many of our federal agencies lack legislative guidance 
on permit administration. Without guidelines, the system is highly 
discretionary, and often inconsistent, creating confusion for 
Outfitters and guides, and ultimately reducing opportunities for our 
constituents to enjoy our public lands. The system established under 
this bill would eliminate inconsistencies, and would provide incentives 
for Outfitters to offer consistently high-quality services to all our 
constituents.
  I would like to thank the original co-sponsors of this legislation 
for their willingness to join me in this effort to assure public lands 
access for all Americans, especially my good friend from Idaho, Mr. 
Otter. Without his hard work and dedication, this bill would never have 
been ready with such speed. This is a bill which appropriately balances 
public needs with conservation efforts, due in large measure because of 
his efforts. I thank him, as I thank all the co-sponsors of this bill, 
and hope that all my colleagues will support us in this effort.

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