The RV Industry Association (RVIA) announced its support for Governor Doug Burgum’s nomination as Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
In a letter addressed to Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Mike Lee and Ranking Member Martin Heinrich, the association highlighted Burgum’s dedication to enhancing outdoor recreation and his focus on increasing access to public lands.
“Governor Burgum’s record reflects a deep commitment to enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities and prioritizing access to public lands,” the association said in a News and Insights report of RVIA.
The letter also commended Burgum’s plans to modernize and expand federal campgrounds to meet the needs of the growing RV industry, which continues to play a significant role in the U.S. economy.
Burgum’s nomination took center stage during the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s hearing on January 17. Discussions during the hearing emphasized bipartisan support for the outdoor recreation economy, valued at $1.2 trillion annually.
Senators Maria Cantwell and Martin Heinrich, along with Governor Burgum, underscored the importance of initiatives such as the EXPLORE Act and the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable in boosting this vital economic sector.
The hearing also highlighted the significance of state Offices of Outdoor Recreation in supporting local economies and improving public land management.
Burgum’s nomination holds particular relevance for the RV industry, which relies heavily on the availability and quality of public lands. The Department of the Interior oversees over 20% of the nation’s land, including national parks that collectively attract nearly half a billion visitors each year.
One of Burgum’s key tasks, if confirmed, will be addressing the scheduled 2025 expiration of the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund. This fund plays a critical role in reducing deferred maintenance in national parks, ensuring visitors can continue enjoying well-maintained facilities and landscapes.
Support for Burgum’s nomination extends beyond the RV Industry Association. The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, which includes 33 national organizations and businesses, also endorsed his candidacy in a letter to the Senate committee.