Weekly 5: Chris-Craft plans $10 million plant expansion
The BI Weekly 5 is a collection of tips, news and data affecting the boating industry this week. Be sure to look for the BI Weekly 5 every week on BoatingIndustry.com.
1. Chris-Craft plans $10 million plant expansion
Chris-Craft is making plans for a $10 million plant expansion and retooling project at its Manatee, Fla., facility, the Bradenton Herald reported.
The company said it is seeking its expansion because it has maxed out its existing manufacturing space, with sales surpassing its recent high in 2008.
2. Senators: Trump administration will uphold Renewable Fuel Standard
President-Elect Donald Trump’s nominee to head the Environmental Protection Agency has assured Iowa’s senators that the administration will back the federal ethanol production mandate, WNAX reported.
Republican Senators Joni Ernst and Chuck Grassley met with nominee Scott Pruitt last week to emphasize the importance of ethanol to Iowa and other Midwestern states. In a statement following the meeting, Ernst said:
“In regards to RFS, it is imperative that the law is followed. I received assurances from Mr. Pruitt that he intends to do so, and I will hold him to that commitment. I was pleased to hear that President-elect Trump made it clear to Mr. Pruitt that he cares about the RFS. Mr. Pruitt told me in our meeting that the role of the EPA is to enforce the law as written by Congress, and not undermine the RFS.
“I stressed that a strong and robust RFS encourages consumer choice, investment, and innovation. The RFS is a major driver of alternative fuels and economic development, and I will always protect and promote it in the Senate.”
3. Arizona considers new safety rules for boaters in 2017
Arizona regulators are considering new boating rules that are designed to boost safety and better oversee rental operations, the Associated Press reports.
The rules include new registration rules for rental companies, and PFD requirements.
4. NMMA plans Mini Trade Symposium in Miami
5. President signs Outdoor REC Act into law
President Obama recently signed the Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act of 2016. The bill, passed the House of Representatives and the Senate in December, the Sun Herald reported.
The legislation instructs federal agencies to provide statistics on how the outdoor industry, including recreational fishing and boating, contributes to the American economy.
