Upton Backing Recreational Harbor Bill

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Congressman Fred Upton is pushing legislation to help ensure the Army Corps of Engineers gives consideration to recreational harbor maintenance projects when it conducts cost-benefit analysis procedures each year. Upton says the Safer Harbors for Our Recreational Economy Act, or SHORE ACT, would direct the Army Corps to make sure the economic benefits of recreational boating are considered as part of the project authorization process. He says the United States outdoor recreation economy generates $778 billion in economic growth each year. However, due to rising water levels in the Great Lakes, recreational boating is under threat. Upton says the SHORE Act is “needed to prioritize recreational infrastructure projects that serve an important role in the economy here in southwest Michigan and across the region.” He notes recreational harbors in New Buffalo, South Haven, and Saugatuck stand to benefit if the Army Corps puts more emphasis on protecting recreational boating. The SHORE Act was introduced by Representatives John Katko of New York and Anthony Brindisi of New York. It was originally co-sponsored by Upton.