MRAA urges Congress to support Wallop-Breaux reauthorization
OAK PARK, Ill. – The Marine Retailers Association of America (MRAA) has sent letters to members of committees with jurisdiction over the reauthorization of the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund (commonly known as Wallop-Breaux), strongly encouraging support, the MRAA reported in a recent press release.
MRAA said it has asked members of the House Ways and Means Committee, the House Committee on Resources, the House Transportation Committee, the Senate Finance Committee, Senate Commerce Science and Transportation Committee, and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works to support recreational boating and the content of Senate Bill 1804 and work to include the bill in the reauthorization of the nation’s surface transportation program.
“The provisions contained in S. 1804 are the heart and soul of fishing and boating in our country,” said John Sima, MRAA chairman. “Wallop-Breaux is one of the most successful user pay programs presently in force and, since 1950, the nation’s 40 million anglers, 70 million recreational boaters and 17 million boat owners have paid special taxes and fees to conserve and enhance aquatic resources and promote boating. The program has provided ample opportunities for safe and fun fishing and boating in our country and needs to be continued.”
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