DSC is proud, alongside our partners, to support the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). The GAOA is an important bill that supports hunters, anglers, hikers, campers, climbers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Among other important actions, GAOA would improve access by funding the federal maintenance backup of necessary roads, trails, piers, campsites, parking lots, boat ramps, and other infrastructure. One economic analysis of the GAOA estimates that at least 110,000 infrastructure-related jobs would be created in National Parks alone.
Further, the GAOA provides critical funding to the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which protects working forests and species habitat, improves the vitality of gateway communities, and supports state parks and community recreation facilities in support of outdoor activities.
The COVID-19 pandemic has left millions of Americans unable to enjoy the great outdoors. GAOA supports Americans return to the outdoors with the knowledge that National Parks and federal lands will be safe and accessible.
The Great American Outdoors Act (S.3422) was introduced in March to the Senate by Sen. Gardner (R-CO) with 54 co-sponsors, representing both democratic and republican support. On June 8, the Senate voted to limit debate, which allows for the final passage to occur by a simple majority vote. As of press time, there are 59 total co-sponsors.
Earlier in June, the companion legislation (H.R.7092) was introduced in the House by Rep. Cunningham (D-SC) with 11 other co-sponsors from both sides of the aisle. As of press time, there are 64 co-sponsors. The president has signaled his support of the bill, opening a path forward for it to be signed into law.
We urge you to contact your Senator and House Representatives and ask that they support the Great American Outdoors Act. Learn more about GAOA by clicking here.
Please remember to practice #ResponsibleRecreation and to be sure to learn more about #ResponsibleRecreation and to take the pledge by clicking here.
