Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act of 2016

Floor Speech

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Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4665, the Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act of 2016. The outdoor recreation industry encompasses activities and sports such as bicycling, camping, hunting, fishing, off-roading, and wildlife viewing, and is enjoyed by consumers of all ages, all ethnicities, all income levels.
This industry has become a significant engine for economic growth and job creation in the United States. Despite the growing contributions made by the outdoor recreation industry to the United States economy, the industry's full economic impact has not been measured and not accounted for like other economic sectors.

H.R. 4665 would ensure that the outdoor recreation economy is measured and is accounted for by the Federal Government as part of the country's gross domestic product, as it has done for many other economic sectors.
The work that is directed to be done by the Department of Commerce, in consultation with other Federal agencies, would not require new employees and would use existing funds within that agency.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 4665.
I reserve the balance of my time.

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