America’s Outfitters Laud Bill Introduction in U.S. Senate to Relieve Outfitters from Burdensome Overtime Hour Requirements
Senators Daines and Sinema introduce bill to exempt seasonal recreation providers from hour requirements in the Fair Labor Standards Act
KNOXVILLE, April 28, 2022- America Outdoors, Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association, and Montana Outfitters and Guides Association welcomed the introduction of a bill to relieve certain outfitters from burdensome overtime requirements that are incompatible with the industry. Introduced by Senator Daines (MT) and Senator Sinema (AZ), this bill is a Senate companion to H.R. 6280, which was previously introduced by Congressman O’Halleran (AZ), Congressman Stewart (UT), and Congressman Moore (UT). The bill seeks to exempt seasonal recreation providers from cumbersome hour requirements in the Fair Labor Standards Act.
“Now more than ever, we need to make sure that outdoor recreation experiences remain accessible and affordable to all,” said Aaron Bannon, Executive Director of America Outdoors. “Through this bill, Senator Daines and Senator Sinema are working to ensure that seasonal outfitters can continue to provide transformative outdoor experiences without facing exorbitant operating costs.”
The bipartisan, bicameral support demonstrates Americans’ desire to ensure that guided recreational experiences in the great outdoors remain available and financially accessible to the public.
“This amendment could not come at a more important time for the general public who relies entirely on the professional services of the recreational outfitting and guiding community throughout the country,” said John Dillon, Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association Executive Director. “Preserving access to the outdoors and keeping it affordable for everyone is essential. This amendment will preserve jobs, support small businesses, and benefit rural communities.”
This bill will facilitate employment growth in the outfitting and guiding industry by resolving conflicts between the unique characteristics of outdoor trips and FLSA requirements for seasonal recreation providers. Overtime requirements based on a 40-hour workweek present significant management challenges for outfitters and threaten the affordability of outfitted trips for the general public.
“Montana Outfitters and Guides Association is proud to support this industry-saving legislation that protects outfitters and guides from out-of-touch regulations that would have put many Montanans out of business,” said Mac Minard, Executive Director of Montana Outfitters and Guides Association. ”This bill is critical to protecting sportsmen and recreation access, and jobs, particularly in rural communities where opportunities are limited.”
Contact: Aaron Bannon, America Outdoors Executive Director abannon@americaoutdoors.org, (865) 558-3595.