U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and John Barrasso (R-WY), Ranking Member of the Committee, praised today's unanimous committee vote to advance their bipartisan America's Outdoor Recreation Act of 2022, the first comprehensive recreation package since 1963 that will improve and expand America's outdoor recreation economy while delivering sustainable economic boosts to rural communities.
"Nothing brings West Virginians closer together than our love and appreciation for the wild and wonderful outdoor playground we have been blessed with. For generations, it has provided us endless opportunities to explore and recreate with our friends and family while improving our mental and physical well-being. That's why I'm incredibly proud our committee voted to advance my bipartisan America's Outdoor Recreation Act which will improve our recreation infrastructure, make it easier for businesses to thrive in rural areas in West Virginia and across the country, and ensure our treasured public lands are accessible for generations to come. As Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and a lifelong outdoorsman, I am committed to working with Ranking Member Barrasso and our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get our historic legislation across the finish line and signed into law," said Chairman Manchin.
"Key priorities for Wyoming's outdoor recreation economy are moving forward," said Ranking Member Barrasso. "Our bipartisan legislation is a monumental achievement for all who enjoy our public lands and shared natural resources. It will increase access to the outdoors, streamline and simplify agency processes, and improve America's recreation infrastructure. It will also modernize film and photography permitting on public lands. Finally, it will incentivize volunteers to help with efforts to conserve Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in Grand Teton National Park. I will continue to work with Chairman Manchin to get this important package passed by the full Senate and signed into law."