The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“OUTDOOR RECREATION JOBS AND ECONOMIC IMPACT ACT OF 2016” mentioning the U.S. Dept. of Commerce was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E1480-E1481 on Nov. 15, 2016.
The Department includes the Census Bureau, which is used to determine many factors about American life. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department is involved in misguided foreign trade policies and is home to many unneeded programs.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
OUTDOOR RECREATION JOBS AND ECONOMIC IMPACT ACT OF 2016
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speech of
HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE
of texas
in the house of representatives
Monday, November 14, 2016
Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4665, the
``Outdoor Recreation's Economic Contributions (REC) Act of 2016.''
H.R. 4665 will direct the Bureau of Economic Analysis of the Department of Commerce to collect, analyze and report information relating to the outdoor recreation economy of the United States and its economic impact on the nation's overall economy.
Outdoor recreation generates $646 billion each year in consumer spending and creates 6.1 million American jobs.
Outdoor recreation has a significant impact on the economy, generating three times as many jobs as the oil and gas industries.
The state of Texas offers many amazing outdoor recreation services at treasured attractions such as Big Bend National Park and Garner State Park.
Studies show that at least 51 percent of Texans participate in outdoor recreation each year.
This activity generates approximately $28.7 billion in consumer spending.
In addition, the outdoor recreation industry in Texas, generates $1.9 billion in state and local tax revenue each year, and provides 277,000 direct jobs resulting in approximately $8.9 billion in wages and salaries.
The passage of this bill will generate objective, federal data and statistics that policymakers, at either the local, state or federal level, can use to make informed and responsible decisions regarding the outdoor recreation industry.
Protecting and securing public lands and space for outdoor recreation is crucial for the future success of the American economy and the environment.
Outdoor recreational activities contribute significantly to the physical, mental, and spiritual health and wellness of individuals.
Federal lands contribute significantly to the preservation of nature-
based outdoor recreational opportunities.
Federal recreation resources generate vast amounts of economic enterprise from tourist activity, recreation visitors, and the increased property value and business attraction gained from natural amenities.
The preservation and growth of the Outdoor Recreation Industry depends on the informed decision of lawmakers, and the Outdoor REC Act of 2016 will be pivotal in providing this vital information.
For these reasons I support H.R. 4665 the ``Outdoor Recreation's Economic Contribution Act of 2016.''
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