Outdoor Industry Associations efforts on Capital Hill last week are producing some tangible results with two separate “dear colleague” letters circulating through the House and Senate urging members of Congress to restore funding to the Stateside Land and Water Conservation fund. One letter, drafted by Representatives James P. McGovern (D, Mass.), Rush D. Holt (D, N.J.), and Wayne T. Gilchrest (R, Md.) asks for $100 million while the second letter, signed by Senators Ken Salazar (D, Colo.) and Susan M. Collins (R, Maine.) asks for $91.2 million. OIAs goal was funding at $90 million.
“One week after the Capitol Summit, we are seeing the event is paying some tremendous dividends. We accomplished the goals of the summit and made the case for close-to-home recreation,” OIAs Legislative Affairs Associate, Alex Boian wrote in a letter to attendees. “Through our efforts, a reinvigorated campaign to restore funding to the Land and Water Conservation Fund State Assistance Program is underway.”
Several members of congress have signed the letters, but both letters still need additional signatories. It appears that OIA has created some positive momentum in Washington D.C. and OIAs government affairs team is keeping the active members updated on the most effective follow-up methods.
