Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 765, ``The Ski Area Recreational Opportunity Enhancement Act of 2011,'' which amends the National Forest Ski Area Permit Act of 1986 to require the term and acreage of permits for the operation of ski areas and associated facilities on National Forest System lands to be governed by provisions under the Act relating to such permits and other applicable law. Furthermore, this legislation provides for the issuance of permits for the use and occupancy of suitable lands within the National Forest System for skiing and other snow sports and recreational uses authorized pursuant to this Act. The Ski Area Recreational Opportunity Enhancement Act provides the American public with added ways to use and enjoy federally governed land. It is in a spirit of encouraging increased camaraderie, outdoor recreation and enjoyment of nature that I support providing an expanded opportunity for Americans to benefit from the natural resources in their own back yard. It is the responsibility of all Members of Congress to fulfill our moral obligation to promote harmony between Americans and the vast opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the country. Additionally, this legislation serves to create revenue by allowing for additional permits, bolstering ski and winter recreation industries. In the State of Texas, we have nearly 675,000 acres of public land that the U.S. Forest Service manages.…”