The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) and the industry of R.V.s applaud the committee’s approval on the Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation (SOAR) Act, H.R. 3670, a bill which will significantly increase access to Americans to outdoor recreation as per the News & Insights report by the R.V. Industry Association (RVIA). The U.S. House Natural Resources Committee unanimously passed the bill on Wednesday, October. 13.
The SOAR Act, which includes several provisions from Recreation Not Red Tape Act, expands access to outdoor experiences by modernizing antiquated systems within the federal government that have created unnecessary barriers to accessing the outdoors for all Americans,” said R.V. Industry Association Director of Federal Affairs Chris Bornemann. “This piece of legislation is a critical first step towards passing a vital outdoor recreation package, while also streamlining processes by cutting red tape and expanding the shoulder seasons, where appropriate, which will help with overcrowding and provide more opportunities for RVers to visit and camp at our nation’s iconic national parks, forests, and public lands.
This House markup is a critical first step to improving access for the American public and updated tools for federal agencies to manage our shared lands and waters for recreation,” said ORR Executive Director Jessica Turner. “The industry is aware of the urgent requirement to swiftly adopt this bill as it will allow for the expansion in this $7788 billion market and provide diverse communities with access to outdoor activities, and assist in managing the issue of overcrowding in certain recreation areas. This will offer some relief to businesses and communities that have been impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic and for those dealing with the consequences of climate change.”
Turner added, “We applaud Congressman Neguse and the entire committee for its swift and unanimous passage of this bill and look forward to a recreation package coming together by the end of the year that would truly be a legacy achievement for the committee and the national outdoor recreation economy.”
ORR has sent a letter signed by over thirty committee members outlining the importance of this bill for the outdoor recreation business and the American public and rural communities across the nation.
Isn’t it cool that the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee passed the SOAR Act? It’s a big win for outdoor fun and the recreation industry. This move will make outdoor experiences more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. I think it’s awesome how they’re updating systems to make things easier and more sustainable. Great news for nature lovers like us!