The companion bill is being led by Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA) and Congressman Mike Turner (R-OH) in the U.S. In addition to Senator King, Senator Collins and Padilla’s legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Gary Peters (D-MI). In 2019, the City of Portland received $750,000 through the ORLP program to develop Portland Landing Park in the Eastern Waterfront redevelopment district. Nationwide, 100 million people-including 28 million children-do not have a park within a half-mile from home. This is a simple idea that will make a major difference in the lives of millions, and I hope that the Senate can advance the legislation quickly.” “This legislation would invest in urban and low-income communities to create or improve natural areas in communities without outdoor recreation opportunities. “Maine people know that access to the outdoors is fundamental to a happy, healthy life – which is why I believe that all Americans deserve to have safe green spaces to connect with their communities and the natural world around them,” said Senator King, Chairman of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee. Improving park access will provide benefits like shade, tree cover, and clean air that are critical as we grapple with the intensifying effects of the climate crisis.” The Outdoors for All Act would invest in new parks and open spaces-and upgrade existing ones-to bring nature’s benefits to urban residents’ doorsteps. “Having grown up in Los Angeles, I know all too well how people living in urban areas often lack adequate park space, an injustice that negatively impacts our communities and our environment. “No matter your zip code, everyone should have access to outdoor space in their community,” Senator Padilla said. This bipartisan bill would invest in these communities to support parks, playgrounds, trails, and other projects that will help ensure that all Americans have outdoor recreation opportunities.” “Regrettably, many Americans, particularly those living in urban and low-income areas, lack access to outdoor green spaces that give them the ability to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature close to home. “Our state is fortunate to have abundant natural resources that allow Mainers and visitors to enjoy our pristine environment,” said Senator Collins. The ORLP program supports urban parks in underserved communities across the country. The Outdoors for All Act establishes the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program in federal law and guarantees funding for the program. The legislation, which is co-sponsored by Senator Angus King (I-ME), would create a dedicated source of funding for projects that expand outdoor recreational opportunities in urban and low-income communities across the nation. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced the Outdoors for All Act.
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