[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 174 (Monday, December 5, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1586]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 SUPPORT OF H.R. 4665, THE OUTDOOR RECREATION JOBS AND ECONOMIC IMPACT 
                                  ACT

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. SUZANNE BONAMICI

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 5, 2016

  Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4665, the 
Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act, introduced by my 
friend from Virginia, Congressman Beyer. I am proud to be a cosponsor 
of this legislation to highlight the importance of the outdoor 
recreation economy.
  In Oregon, we know how important the outdoor industry is to our 
economy. Northwest Oregon businesses like Keen, Columbia Sportswear, 
and Nike have thrived and brought thousands of jobs to our communities. 
Surveys conducted by the Outdoor Industry Association in 2012 show 
that, in my home state, the industry contributes 141,000 direct jobs, 
$4.0 billion in wages and salaries, and $12.8 billion in consumer 
spending annually. Nationwide, outdoor recreation generates $646 
billion in consumer spending every year.
  The climbers, hikers, hunters, and anglers who are passionate about 
the outdoors spend time and money in hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, 
and stores in nearby communities, providing an economic boost for local 
economies. They also purchase necessary attire, gear, and footwear from 
innovative businesses to help them reach the summit, catch fish, and 
enjoy our nation's natural treasures.
  I am proud to support the Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact 
Act.

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