Recreation Not Red Tape Act
A BILL
To promote innovative approaches to outdoor recreation on Federal land and to increase opportunities for collaboration with non-Federal partners, and for other purposes.
2. Definitions
In this Act:
Federal land management agency— The term Federal land management agency has the meaning given the term in section 802 of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (16 U.S.C. 6801).
Federal recreational lands and waters— The term Federal recreational lands and waters has the meaning given the term in section 802 of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (16 U.S.C. 6801).
Secretaries— Except as otherwise provided in this Act, the term Secretaries means—
the Secretary of the Interior; and
the Secretary of Agriculture.
3. Sense of Congress regarding outdoor recreation
It is the sense of Congress that—
outdoor recreation and the outdoor industry that outdoor recreation supports are vital to the United States;
access to outdoor recreation on Federal recreational lands and waters is important to the health and wellness of all people of the United States, especially young people;
in addition to the overall economic benefit of outdoor recreation, the economic benefits of outdoor recreation on Federal recreational lands and waters creates significant economic and employment benefits to rural economies;
Congress supports the creation of outdoor recreation sector leadership positions within State governments, as well as coordination with recreation and tourism organizations within the State to guide the growth of this sector, as evidenced by recent examples in the States of Colorado, Utah, and Washington;
State and local recreation and tourism offices play a pivotal role in—
coordinating State outdoor recreation policies, management, and promotion among Federal, State, and local agencies and entities;
disseminating information, increasing awareness, and growing demand for outdoor recreation experiences among visitors across the United States and throughout the world;
improving funding for, access to, and participation in outdoor recreation; and
promoting economic development in the State by coordinating with stakeholders, improving recreational opportunities, and recruiting outdoor recreation businesses;
it is vital—
to support the coordination and collaboration of the Federal and State land and water management agencies in the delivery of visitor services and management of outdoor recreation for the United States; and
provide adequate staffing within Federal land management agencies to facilitate sustainable and accessible outdoor recreation opportunities; and
volunteers and volunteer partnerships play an important role in maintaining public land.