Kristine Stratton, president and CEO of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), issued the following statement in response to the passage of the Outdoors for All Act:
“On behalf of NRPA and our more than 60,000 park and recreation professionals and advocates, we are celebrating the passage of Outdoors For All. This critical piece of legislation is a momentous win for the health of communities across the country.
By providing equitable outdoor recreation opportunities, it will ensure future generations have access to high quality parks and green spaces—and all the life-enhancing benefits they bring to physical, mental, and social well-being.
This is a huge win for our more than 60,000 members and advocates, who work tirelessly to serve the public through park and recreation opportunities. These community heroes preserve and protect the outdoors in urban and rural communities throughout the country.
Every person — no matter their ZIP code — should have access to quality green spaces. The Outdoors for All Act will guarantee that future generations have access to quality parks and green spaces along with the social, physical and mental health benefits they provide.
Quality local parks are not only essential to health and well-being, but also serve as incredible economic drivers for communities. In 2021, local park and recreation agencies generated $201 billion in economic activity, supporting more than 1.1 million jobs.
NRPA applauds Congress for passing this legislation and thanks our members, allies and partners for their tireless advocacy. Our members should be especially proud of their work in achieving this victory.”
To learn more about NRPA, visit nrpa.org.
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About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates — the catalysts for positive change in service of equity, climate-readiness, and overall health and well-being. For more information, visit nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit parksandrecreation.org.