The RV Industry Association commended state senators from Illinois, Massachusetts, and West Virginia for recently recognizing the importance of growing their states’ outdoor recreation economies by introducing legislation to create Offices of Outdoor Recreation (OREC offices) within their state governments. If successful, these states will join 17 others who have established offices or task forces of outdoor recreation.
In Illinois, Senator Craig Wilcox introduced legislation last month to establish an Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry within the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
RVIA said its Legislative Analyst Ashley Brinkman is working closely with Sen. Wilcox and his staff to support the successful passage of the bill and is hopeful the legislation will receive a hearing soon.
“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,” said Brinkman. “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. The RV industry is happy to support this legislation from Senator Wilcox and look forward to its success.”
Meanwhile, RVIA said it was encouraged by efforts from Massachusetts State Senator Adam Hinds and West Virginia State Senator Mark Maynard to create an OREC office in their respective states.
“RVers are avid participators in many outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, biking, fishing, climbing, boating, and snow sports. And while outdoor recreation is a significant part of our American heritage, it is also a pillar of our nation’s economy,” RVIA said, adding that the association, along with members of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, have called for governors in all 50 states to establish an Office of Outdoor Recreation.
