State senators in Illinois, Massachusetts and West Virginia have introduced legislation to create Offices of Outdoor Recreation (OREC) within their state governments, sparking “applause” from RVIA.
If successful, the association stated the three states will join 17 others that have established OREC offices or outdoor recreation task forces.
“In Illinois, the RV industry has an economic impact of $2.4 billion and supports more than 11,761 jobs and $701.2 million in wages paid to Illinois residents,” RVIA Legislative Analyst Ashley Brinkman said. “We are one of many industries in the state that have a vested interest in our state parks, our campgrounds and the other outdoor spaces that make Illinois a great place to go RVing.”
Illinois state Sen. Craig Wilcox introduced the legislation last month to establish the Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry within the state’s Department of Natural Resources. Brinkman is “working closely” with the senator and his staff to support the bill’s successful passage, which she said will hopefully receive a hearing soon.
“The RV industry is happy to support this legislation from Sen. Wilcox and look forward to its success,” Brinkman said.
Massachusetts Sen. Adam Hinds and West Virginia Sen. Mark Maynard, who RVIA stated are both “avid outdoorsmen,” have re-introduced legislation from their states’ last sessions to create OREC offices in their respective areas.
“RVIA is encouraged by their demonstrated dedication to supporting the outdoor recreation economies of Massachusetts and West Virginia,” the association stated.
RVIA, along with other Outdoor Recreation Roundtable members, have called for governors in all 50 states to establish OREC offices. RVIA stated it will continue to work with policymakers in the three mentioned states to support the passage of each bill.
“RVers are avid participators in many outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, biking, fishing, climbing, boating and snow sports,” the association stated. “And while outdoor recreation is a significant part of our American heritage, it is also a pillar of our nation’s economy.”
