Senator Gordon Smith from Oregon and Representative Mark Udall from Colorado will be this year's recipients of the OIA's “Friend of the Outdoor Industry Award” for their leadership and dedication to the active outdoor recreation industry. The awards will be presented during Outdoor Industry Association's annual Capitol Summit in Washington, DC from April 15th through April 17th.
According to a statement from the OIO, Senator Gordon Smith (R-OR) is receiving this award for his legislative work in support of the outdoor industry's trade agenda. As Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee's Subcommittee on Trade, Senator Smith has been an invaluable ally to Outdoor Industry Association, its members and the outdoor industry generally in pursuit of its trade agenda. Senator Smith is a lead sponsor of the Affordable Footwear Act, a bipartisan, bicameral legislative initiative to eliminate duties on several styles of footwear. He has been a tireless advocate for the legislation to his colleagues on the Senate Finance Committee and throughout the Senate and continues to push for the bill's passage.
This award is also being presented to Representative Mark Udall (D-CO) for his work in support of the outdoor industry's recreation agenda and specifically his efforts to ensure that the benefits of preserving recreation destinations on public lands are given equal consideration to energy development on public lands. To this end, Congressman Udall introduced a provision in the House Energy bill that would grant recreation permit holders advanced notification of proposed oil leasing that would impact their recreational operations. This provision would result in improved standing and consideration of the recreation industry as decisions are made regarding proposed energy projects on public lands.
“Coloradans understand that our outdoor industry is as important to our economy as it is to our way of life. I am proud to receive this award and will continue to work in years to come on behalf of Colorado's world-class outdoor industry,” remarked Representative Udall.
“The Friend of the Outdoor Industry Award” is presented annually to members of Congress and administration officials in recognition for their leadership in support of the active outdoor recreation industry.
“Both Senator Smith and Congressman Udall have been real leaders in advocating for public policies that support the success and growth of our industry,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president of OIA. “We are deeply appreciative of their efforts.”
