George Holding: “Americans are struggling to find jobs in our economy, so we must take advantage of the opportunities for job growth…”

“Americans are struggling to find jobs in our economy, so we must take advantage of the opportunities for job growth where and whenever they arise. And today I want to highlight the positive economic impact of recreational fishing and hunting. Mr. Speaker, nationwide, sportsmen contribute over $3 billion of State and Federal revenue annually through hunting and fishing licenses, fees, and excise taxes. In my home State of North Carolina, hunters and anglers produced over 35,000 jobs in 2011--more than the combined employment of the two largest private employers in the State. Sportsmen and -women generated $249 million in State and local taxes in 2011--enough to support the salaries of over 6,000 police and sheriff's patrol officers. I rise today to support this important industry and what it is doing for my home State. Hunting, fishing, boating, and other recreational sports foster growth in our economy and create jobs. ____________________”