[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 163 (Tuesday, November 15, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1480-E1481]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        OUTDOOR RECREATION JOBS AND ECONOMIC IMPACT ACT OF 2016

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 14, 2016

  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4665, the 
``Outdoor Recreation's Economic Contributions (REC) Act of 2016.''
  H.R. 4665 will direct the Bureau of Economic Analysis of the 
Department of Commerce to collect, analyze and report information 
relating to the outdoor recreation economy of the United States and its 
economic impact on the nation's overall economy.
  Outdoor recreation generates $646 billion each year in consumer 
spending and creates 6.1 million American jobs.
  Outdoor recreation has a significant impact on the economy, 
generating three times as many jobs as the oil and gas industries.
  The state of Texas offers many amazing outdoor recreation services at 
treasured attractions such as Big Bend National Park and Garner State 
Park.
  Studies show that at least 51 percent of Texans participate in 
outdoor recreation each year.
  This activity generates approximately $28.7 billion in consumer 
spending.
  In addition, the outdoor recreation industry in Texas, generates $1.9 
billion in state and local tax revenue each year, and provides 277,000 
direct jobs resulting in approximately $8.9 billion in wages and 
salaries.
  The passage of this bill will generate objective, federal data and 
statistics that policymakers, at either the local, state or federal 
level, can use to make informed and responsible decisions regarding the 
outdoor recreation industry.

[[Page E1481]]

  Protecting and securing public lands and space for outdoor recreation 
is crucial for the future success of the American economy and the 
environment.
  Outdoor recreational activities contribute significantly to the 
physical, mental, and spiritual health and wellness of individuals.
  Federal lands contribute significantly to the preservation of nature-
based outdoor recreational opportunities.
  Federal recreation resources generate vast amounts of economic 
enterprise from tourist activity, recreation visitors, and the 
increased property value and business attraction gained from natural 
amenities.
  The preservation and growth of the Outdoor Recreation Industry 
depends on the informed decision of lawmakers, and the Outdoor REC Act 
of 2016 will be pivotal in providing this vital information.
  For these reasons I support H.R. 4665 the ``Outdoor Recreation's 
Economic Contribution Act of 2016.''

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