Clearing Huge Hurdle, Great American Outdoors Act Passes Senate, Moves to House
With a final vote of 73-25, today the U.S. Senate voted in favor of passing the Great American Outdoors Act, S.3422. While IWF is disappointed in the “Nay” votes from Senator Risch and Senator Crapo, we applaud the overwhelming bipartisan effort and the final vote by U.S. Senators.
Next, the bill moves to the House of Representatives where Idaho Congressman Simpson (a bill co-sponsor) and Congressman Fulcher will vote on the Great American Outdoors Act. To contact Congressman Fulcher’s office and ask for his support of this legislation: (202) 225-6611.
“It isn’t every day people get to be part of such a historic moment for conservation. Idaho sportsmen spoke up when it was most needed and should feel good about the grassroots momentum behind this bill”, said Brian Brooks, IWF’s Executive Director. “We are thankful to Congressman Simpson for his co-sponsorship of the bill and hope to also see support from Congressman Fulcher for our state’s rich outdoor heritage and the booming outdoor recreation economy that brings jobs and other economic benefits to our state.”
It is not a stretch to call the Great American Outdoors Act the most important piece of conservation legislation that most of us will see in our lifetime. With full and permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund included, $900 million will be annually dedicated to enhancing and expanding access to the outdoors for current and future generations of sportsmen and women. LWCF funds have benefitted all 44 Idaho counties - no matter where you live, LWCF has enhanced outdoor experiences in your community. Additionally, the bill will dedicated much-needed funds to our national parks and other public lands to solve the maintenance backlog and will create 100,000 new jobs at a time when new jobs are truly needed.
Idaho’s outdoor recreation industry, including hunting and fishing, is nearly equal to agriculture as the top economic driver in the state and is reliant upon accessible and abundant outdoor opportunities on public lands. Tens of thousands of Idaho jobs are directly related to outdoor recreation and the state sees over $7 billion in outdoor recreation-related consumer spending annually.
“Whether you enjoy waterfowl hunting along the Snake River, North Idaho big game hunting, or fly fishing in the Sawtooths, this legislation would enhance the outdoor activities that Idahoans cherish”, said Garret Visser, IWF’s Conservation Program Coordinator. "Those who live in this state know the irreplaceable value of accessible public lands and waters. We’re hopeful to get this across the finish line with no amendments so the places that make Idaho such a great state to live, work, and play can stand the test of time.”
The House of Representatives is expected to take up the Great American Outdoors Act in the coming weeks. If passed by the House, the bill will then go to the desk of the President for his signature which would enact it into law.
