Source: http://www.americaoutdoors.org/outfitter/view_member_resources.php?cresource=1
Timestamp: 2017-12-11 00:34:31
Document Index: 667441644

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 391', '§ 390', 'art 372', 'arts 385', 'art 219', 'art 2', 'art 51']

America Outdoors Member Resources: Regulations and Legislation
November 08, 2017 Report to National Park Service Regulatory Reform Task Force - Member Only
Outdoor recreation and access to public lands are tremendously important to connect Americans to the wonders of the natural world. Outfitted services provide access to active travel and to places that the general public would be unable to visit without those services. Outfitting contributes to the vitality of many rural economies. Thousands of family-run businesses and their employees in rural communities are dependent upon land-managing agency permits to access public lands. Approximately 17,000 authorizations are issued by the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management and other federal agencies for outfitting, guiding, special events, and competitions. Unfortunately, the crush of regulatory processes from various federal agencies is threatening the survival of many of these recreation businesses. Some of those challenges are outlined in this report.
November 08, 2017 Report to Forest Service Regulatory Reform Task Force - Member Only
November 01, 2017 H.R. 2771 - Member Only
The seasonal recreational establishment exemption for outfitters operating under federal permit and for those with traveling camps is restored by H.R. 2771.
May 23, 2017 The Impact of Regulations on the Outfitting Industry Operating on Federally Managed Lands and Waters - Member Only
In response to a request from the Chairman of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, AOA V.P. for Government Affairs sent this report to Congress on May 23, 2017.
May 10, 2017 Model Letter in Support of the GO Act
Write your representative in support of the GO Act using this model letter. Click the title for the letter.
To find your Representative go to https://democracy.io/#!/
February 01, 2017 NPS Directive on CUA Fees November 2015 - Member Only
NPS Directive to Parks on cost recovery and options for charging CUA application and cost recovery fees.
January 04, 2017 Oregon Marine Board Non Motorized Permit Proposal
The Oregon State Marine Board recently issued a legislative proposal to charge “$4 for a one week permit (+ $1 AIS), $12 for an annual permit (+ $5 AIS), $20 for a biennial permit (+ $10 AIS).” The proposal says there will be reduced fees for livery operators, but does not specify what those fees will be. The proposal also mandates life jacket wear while paddling.
November 17, 2016 AOA Comments to NPS Proposed Stewardship Directive
The Draft Order proposes to adopt the “precautionary principle” and “adaptive management” as “guiding strategies for resource management.” Draft Order, lines 220-221. AOA recognizes that adaptive management can be a useful management tool, provided that it will be employed not only to potentially impose increasingly more restrictive limitations on public use and enjoyment, but also to ease such limitations and expand opportunities for public use and enjoyment when existing limitations are no longer necessary. The proposed adoption of the precautionary principle, however, is enormously problematic and could have a chilling effect on the public enjoyment and other legitimate uses of National Park System resources.
November 07, 2016 NPS Draft D.O. 100 RESOURCE STEWARDSHIP FOR THE 21ST CENTURY - Member Only
The purpose of this Order, and its companion Reference Manual (RM-100), is to articulate and communicate policies and actions to support resource stewardship in the next century. This Order will help the Service fulfill the NPS mission:
The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the [N]ational [P]ark [S]ystem for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The National Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world. [Management Policies (2006), inside front cover.]
This Order provides policies that form a new framework for stewardship decision making within the NPS based upon the overarching resource stewardship goal described in section 3. The Order also defines new terms and concepts that will be used in this and future guidance.
November 02, 2016 Excerpt from Coast Guard Manual on Whitewater Raft Inspection Waiver - Member Only
Excerpt from Coast Guard Manual on Vessel Inspection outlines whitewater whitewater rafts are not subject to inspection.
November 01, 2016 Coast Guard Protocols for Inspection of Inflatables - Member Only
Inspection protocols for certain inflatables subject to U.S. Coast Guard inspection
September 13, 2016 Forest Service Clarifies NEPA Permitting Requirements - Member Only
The Forest Service FAQ documents clarifies that NEPA is not always required when permits are renewed. It provides guidance of the use of categorical exclusions for permits where use in not increased.
July 07, 2016 Forest Service Permit Streamlining Announcement - Member Only
Chief Tidwell announces plan to enable more outfitter and guide permits through streamlining the process for issuing permits for recreation services in National Forests.
May 18, 2016 White House Expands Overtime to Salaried Employees Earning Less than $47,476 Annually - Member Only
On May 17, 2016 President Obama previewed the outcome of the rule expanding overtime to previously exempt Executive, Administrative and Professional Employees (EAP). The Department of Labor will publish the rule today (May 18, 2016).
March 31, 2016 Comments to Proposed Rule Establishing Paid Sick Leave for Employees of Federal Contractors - Member Only
The proposed Department of Labor rule requires federal contractors, including those providing seasonal recreational services in National Parks, National Forests and on the other public lands, to provide up to 56 hours or 7 days of paid sick leave per year, which accrues at the rate of one hour earned for every 30 hours worked. America Outdoors Association comments focus on the complications with providing such a benefit to part-time seasonal workers.
March 01, 2016 Human-Propelled Boats Proposed Standards for Courses February 2016
Proposed generic standards for the content of courses teaching human powered paddlesport activities issued for public comment February 26, 2016 by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.
February 29, 2016 Sick Pay Rule for Federal Permit Holders and Contractors
This proposed deparment of labor rule was issued February 26, 2016 and proposes to require up to 56 hours of sick pay annually for employees of federal permit holders.
December 21, 2015 Omnibus Appropriations Bill 2016
Bill contains appropriations for federal agencies for FY 2016 and defunds implementation of E.O. 13658 for outfitters and recreation service providers under federal permit. Signed into law by President Obama on December 18, 2015.
November 20, 2015 Basic Boating Knowledge – Human Propelled Boats
Promulgated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, the proposed standards represent the basic boating knowledge which is expected to be conveyed in all courses for operation of human powered boats.
October 23, 2015 Discussion Draft Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act Reauthorization
The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Modernization Act 2015 reauthorizes federal recreation and entrance fees and permitting authority for outfitters, groups and allocated use.
October 01, 2015 15 passenger van regulations FMCSA
Brochure covers Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations for 9 to 15 passenger vans used for direct or indirect compensation in interstate commerce.
September 17, 2015 Testimony in Senate on FLREA Reauthorization 2015
Testimony before the Energy and Natural Resources Committee on the Reauthorization of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act by David Brown.
August 27, 2015 Comments to Department of Labor Rule Expanding Overtime to Previously Exempt Employees
Executive Director David Brown submits comments recommending the US Department of Labor revise the proposed rule to factor in cost of living variations around the nation.
July 16, 2015 Proposed Overtime Rule - Member Only
DOL Guidance Proposed Rule on Expansion of Overtime
July 16, 2015 Labor Issues New Guidance on Misclassification of Employees as Contractors
In a July 15, 2015 Administrator’s Interpretation, the U.S. Department of Labor issued guidance to counter a trend “in a increasing number of workplaces” in which employers misclassify workers as contractors. DOL says, “When employers improperly classify employees as independent contractors, the employees may not receive important workplace protections such as the minimum wage, overtime compensation, unemployment insurance, and workers’ compensation.”
For more information on current DOL issues such as the expansion of overtime and the minimum wage increase for federal permits, log on to America Outdoors Association Member Resources.
July 10, 2015 Testimony on The Impact of Executive Order 13658 on Public Land Guides and Outfitters - Member Only
David L. Brown of America Outdoors Association Testimony on The Impact of Executive Order 13658 on Public Land Guides and Outfitters before Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on the Interior, United State House of Representatives Jun 10, 2015
June 03, 2015 Hydropower Legislation in Congress Eliminates Consideration for Downstream Recreation - Member Only
AOA Announces Key Learning Opportunities for Marketing Conference in Salt Lake City / Hydropower Legislation in Congress Eliminates Consideration for Downstream Recreation / AOA to Testify at Hearing on H.R. 2215 in Interior Subcommittee of House Committee on Government Oversight and Reform
May 20, 2015 Letter from Coalition Opposing Hyrdopower Legislation 2015 - Member Only
Letter opposing hydro power legislation in 114th Congress 2015.
April 28, 2015 Tell Congress that you support a short-haul exemption from FMCSA - Member Only
Under the new Forest Service planning regulations outfitters and others must submit substantive comments during comment periods to qualify as participants in the pre-decision objections process. This excerpt from the Shoshone National Forest plan webpage provides an example (2014).
December 02, 2014 How to Effectively Protect Your Access while Participating in Forest Planning - Member Only
Since 2008, and as revised in new forest planning regulations issued in 2012, the Forest Service has a pre-decisional “objection” process for the agency’s review of forest plan adoption, amendment, and revisions decisions. The objection process replaces the former post-decisional administrative appeal process.
The Forest Service is required to develop land and resource management plans for each unit of the national forest system under the 1976 National Forest Management Act. These plans provide management direction and general planning guidelines for up to 15 years. The plans include basic management and planning directions such as general levels of outfitter use and strategies for providing recreation services and facilities on the specific national forest planning unit. This memorandum describes the current administrative review objection process applicable to national forest plan, amendment, and revision decisions, and it identifies both how one may object to those decisions and participate in the plan decision-making process so as to qualify as an “objector” under the Forest Service regulations.
November 22, 2014 Comments on Forest Service Wilderness Film and Photo Rule - Member Only
The Forest Service has backed off some of its plans to require reporters to get a permit before filming and taking photos in designated wilderness. The proposed rule will require anyone taking a photograph for commercial use to obtain a permit and prohibits use of photos in advertising. America Outdoors Association comments propose allowing outfitters holding permits to operate in wilderness to be able to take photos incidental to their services and to authorize their use in advertising of the permit services.
October 01, 2014 Final NPS Insurance Requirements Dinosaur National Monument - Member Only
Exhibit D outlines the reduced insurance requirements in the prospectus for interpretive float trips for Dinosaur National Monument.
September 25, 2014 Alert on Forest Service Wilderness Photography Rule
The Forest Service would require the media and others taking photos in wilderness to pay up to $1,500 to obtain a permit. Filming would also require a permit, which is status quo for major productions, but this rule seems aimed at permitting incidental photography and will prohibit outfitters from using photographs to advertise their services. The proposed rule was issued September 4, 2014.
August 27, 2014 Letter on NPS Insurance Requirements - Member Only
High limits insurance requirements threaten outfitters profitability in National Parks.
August 01, 2014 Code of Federal Regulations Commercial Motor Vehicles - Member Only
The operation of commercial motor vehicles designed or used to transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver), not for direct compensation, provided the vehicle does not otherwise meet the definition of a commercial motor vehicle except for the texting provisions of §§ 391.15(e) and 392.80, and except that motor carriers operating such vehicles are required to comply with §§ 390.15, 390.19, and 390.21(a) and (b)(2) Read more...
August 01, 2014 Background Checks - What Employers Need to Know
Background Checks - What Employers Need to Know
Employers need to understand how to implement background checks as a hiring tool. This paper provides some guidelines on the use of background checks. States may have their own laws that will apply to the use of background checks. White paper on the implementation of background checks.
June 12, 2014 Testimony on Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act reauthorization
Testimony of AOA Executive Director on Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act reauthorization.
June 06, 2014 How to Participate in Forest Service Plans - Member Only
How to Participate in Forest Service Forest Plans
Participating Forest Planning under the Revised Planning Rule (Excerpt from Brief from Murray Feldman, Holland and Hart which is posted in full on the AOA website under Forest Service).
May 01, 2014 Forest Service Cost Recovery - Member Only
Federal Register Notice, Final Rule 2006 Land Uses; Special Uses; Recovery of Costs for Processing Special Use Applications and Monitoring Compliance With Special Use Authorizations; Final Rule
April 24, 2014 CAMPAIGN TO SAVE AMERICA'S BACKCOUNTRY TRAILS
America's backcountry trail system on public lands is falling into disrepair. New strategies are needed to maintain existing trail and road infrastructure or recreation access is certain to contract in National Forests, on BLM lands and in National Parks. This statement lays out some ideas and a course of action that America Outdoors Association and many of its affiliate organizations support to create a comprehensive campaign to save America's Backcountry Trails.
April 11, 2014 FMCSA Regulations Regarding DOT and MC Numbers - Member Only
Read to find out if you need an MC number and a DOT number.
February 06, 2014 National System of Standards for Recreation Boat Operation - Member Only
Q & A Session: America Outdoors Association’s 2013 Annual Conference National System of Standards for Recreational Boat Operation USCG On-­‐Water Standards Grant #2
(SAIL and HUMAN Rubrics)
February 06, 2014 On-Water Paddling Standards - Member Only
The On-Water Standards Project
Presented at the America Outdoors Associaton 2013 Marketing and Management Conference by K. Brian Dorval
On-Water Standards Grant Facilitator & President, Think First Serve Inc.
January 30, 2014 Motor Carrier Authorization Exemptions - Member Only
A list of the exemptions in the statute and regs (49 USC 13506 and 49 CFR Part 372).
January 27, 2014 Interstate 9 to 15 Passenger Vehicles, Federal Requirement Overview - Member Only
Overview of Federal Requirements for Interstate 9 to 15 passenger vehicles.
January 27, 2014 Final Rule: Patterns of Safety Violations by Motor Carrier Management - Member Only
49 CFR Parts 385 and 386 [Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0321]
RIN 2126–AB42
January 27, 2014 Understanding FMCSA Commerical Zones - Member Only
As a general rule, motor carriers engaging in the interstate transportation of passengers or federally regulated commodities for direct or indirect compensation (i.e., for-hire) are required to obtain operating authority (designated by an “MC” number) from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Certain types of transportation, however, are exempt from this requirement, including transportation within a “commercial zone.”
January 08, 2014 Forest Service Fee Handbook - Member Only
FSH 2709.11 - SPECIAL USES HANDBOOK /
CHAPTER 30 - FEE DETERMINATION
Amendment No.: 2709.11-2008-1 Effective Date: September 17, 2008
January 07, 2014 The Big Issues for 2014 - Member Only
Some of the major regulatory issues we expect to address in 2014.
November 18, 2013 FMCSA Registration - Member Only
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all private and for-hire motor carriers of passengers and freight providing transportation in interstate commerce to update their registration information with the agency every 24 months. Read more...
October 22, 2013 New Rules Require Updating Your FMCSA Registration - Member Only
Changes in FMCSA Requirements take Effect November 1, 2013
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all private and for-hire motor carriers of passengers and freight providing transportation in interstate commerce to update their registration information with the agency every 24 months. Read more....
August 19, 2013 NPS Announces Cancellation of Dinosaur Solicitation - Member Only
After considerable input from America Outdoors Association, members of Congress, insurers, and outfitters NPS announced today that the contract solicitation for Guided Interpretive Whitewater Trips in Dinosaur National Monument is being cancelled. All 11 outfitters with contracts will get one year extensions. AOA received this notice from NPS.
July 17, 2013 NEW NPS Insurance Regulations - Member Only
NEW NPS Insurance Regulations Will Force Most Whitewater Rafting Companies Out of Business in National Parks
July 10, 2013 Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act - Member Only
Drafts of Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act Reauthorization Increase the Fee Burden on Permittees, Exempts Private Users from Backcountry Fees
June 18, 2013 Employer-Shared Healthcare Compliance for the Outfitting Industry - Member Only
This whitepaper on compliance with the Affordable Care Act prepared for America Outdoors Association by Dawn Kramer, a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist with J.W. Terrill, was commissioned to help AOA members understand some of their compliance requirements. This paper focuses on how to determine if your company is a large employer when factoring in the hours of seasonal and variable hour employees. Companies with less than 50 FTE’s will also be obligated to comply with the requirements to inform their employees of coverage options and to meet the reporting requirements required by the Department of Labor and IRS. This paper is designed to help you understand these issues. However, you may need further consultation with a qualified benefits counselor to determine your compliance requirements.
May 17, 2013 Health Care Compliance - Member Only
May 17, 2013 Employer Shared Responsibility Payment - Member Only
Large employers that employed an average of 50 or more employees on business days for the preceding calendar year must make “shared responsibility” tax (“assessable payments”) for each month that the employer. Read the full article for more information.
May 17, 2013 A New Era in Healthcare - Member Only
A new era in Healthcare for Tennesseans.
May 17, 2013 Implementing the Affordable Care Act: Navigating the Changes - Member Only
The Path to Health Care Reform Compliance
The 2014 Centerpiece of the Affordable Care Act
Health Insurance in the New Insurance Marketplace
May 17, 2013 Implementing the Affordable Care Act - Member Only
Actuarial Modeling of Health Care Reform’s Financial Impact on Your Business
December 04, 2012 Clarification of 9 to 15 Passenger Van Regulations - Member Only
August 02, 2012 Testimony of Mike Mills before House National Parks, Forests and Public Lands Subcommittee - Member Only
Testimony on Concession Contract Issues for Outfitters, Guides and Smaller Concessions given by America Outdoors Association President Mike Mills.
August 02, 2012 Testimony of Rick Lindsey before House National Parks, Forests and Public Lands Subcommittee - Member Only
Written Testimony on oversight hearing on Concession Contract Issues for Outfitters, Guides and Smaller Concessions by Rick Lindsey, President, CEO and Chairman of Prime Insurance Company.
August 02, 2012 Testimony of Nat Patridge before House National Parks, Forests and Public Lands Subcommittee - Member Only
Written Testimony on oversight hearing on Concession Contract Issues for Outfitters, Guides and Smaller Concessions by Nat Patridge, Corporate President of Exum Mountain Guides, Jackson, Wyoming.
August 01, 2012 Congressional Testimony of David Brown before House National Parks, Forests and Public Lands Subcommittee - Member Only
Oversight Hearing in House National Parks, Forests and Public Lands Subcommittee to Review NPS Outfitter Contracts and Insurance Requirements. America Outdoors Association's Executive Director - David Brown, AOA President Mike Mills of Buffalo Outdoor Center, Rick Lindsey, CEO of Prime Insurance and Nat Patridge, President of Exum Mountain Guides are among the witnesses testifying before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands on Thursday August 2nd.
July 06, 2012 Final Rule on Bicycle Use in National Parks - Member Only
This rule amends current regulations for designating bicycle routes and managing bicycle use within park units throughout the National Park System. It authorizes park superintendents to open existing trails to bicycle use use with park units under specific conditions.
April 25, 2012 Model Letter on Van Legislation - Member Only
This template letter on the CDL requirement requires you to add the name and address of your Senators or Representative. Fax this letter to your members of Congress since regular mail takes too long to arrive. To find their fax number and contact information go to http://www.congress.org and type in your zip code.
April 16, 2012 9 to 15 Passenger Van Regulations Summary - Member Only
Overview of Requirements 9 to 15 Passenger Vehicles, from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
April 16, 2012 15 Passenger Van Safety Report - Member Only
March 29, 2012 Federal Motor Carrier Authorization - Member Only
Link to Check Your Federal Motor Carrier Authorization
February 21, 2012 Surface Transportation Amendment 2012 - Member Only
Summary of the Senate Finance Committee Amendment to S.1813, MAP-21 As Introduced February 15, 2012
February 02, 2012 Hydro Licenses - Member Only
This list of hydropower licenses issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission includes the expiration dates of all licenses issued on our before February 2012.
November 23, 2011 AOA Comments to Forest Service Modification of Appeals Rule. - Member Only
The Forest Service proposed changes to appeals for special use permits.
July 08, 2011 AOA Comments RE Forest Service Planning Rule - Member Only
July 08, 2011 Insurance Requirements for Outfitter Concessions Contracts and Commercial Use Authorizations - Member Only
America Outdoors Association believes the requirements for $5 million in liability insurance coverage for float trips and other adventure activities proposed in Grand Teton National Park are excessive and will eliminate outdoor recreation services to the general public in the near future if applied throughout the Service. Click on link to read full White Paper.
June 27, 2011 15-Passenger Van and Bus Regulations Summary - Member Only
Regulations for 15 Passenger Vans and 15 Passenger Vans Towing Trailers
May 12, 2011 AOA's FS Planning Rule Comments. - Member Only
The following comments were submitted by America Outdoors Association regarding the proposed National Forest System Land Management Planning rules, 36 CFR Part 219, published in the Federal Register on Feb. 14, 2011.
July 13, 2010 Forest Service Recreation Impacts and Demographics 2009 - Member Only
National Visitor Use Monitoring Results / USDA Forest Service, National Summary Report / Data collected FY 2005 through FY 2009, Last updated 25 April 2010
April 26, 2010 15 Passenger Van Summary, CDL's - Member Only
Most outfitters, guest ranches and resorts providing interstate transportation for recreation or related services will be exempt from new rules effective June 1st, governing 9 to 15 passenger vans crossing state lines if the transportation is part of the package of services. The exception will be if you are towing a trailer across state lines and considered to be over the 10,000 pound combined gross vehicle weight rating. Some states have adopted the federal standard for intrastate travel if you are towing trailers. Click link to read more regarding 9 to 15 passenger van legislation.
March 30, 2010 The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act - Member Only
March 30, 2010 Health Care Reform Implementation Timeline - Member Only
H.R. 4872, The Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act of 2010 Special thanks to the National Ski Areas Association for providing AOA with permission to use this article.
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590), which was signed into law by President Obama, includes provisions that require employers with more than 50 full-time employees to provide qualified health insurance or pay a penalty for each full-time employee.
February 10, 2010 Notice of Intent to Write New Forest Planning Rules - Member Only
Forest Sevice EIS Notice on New Planning Rules
January 28, 2010 Proposed NPS Director Order on Cooperative Associations - Member Only
This Order provides guidance to NPS managers and staff working in partnership with Associations and helps to define the roles of the two organizations in order to strengthen mission alignment and clarify the responsibilities of each organization. As organizations that work on behalf of the NPS, Associations are afforded special privileges and are given special responsibilities in helping the NPS accomplish its mission. These privileges and responsibilities are outlined in this Order.
October 28, 2009 Model letter to Congress regarding H.R. 1396. - Member Only
Model letter in response to proposed 15 Passenger Van CDL Requirements.
October 28, 2009 Model letter to Senate regarding S. 554. - Member Only
Model letter in response to proposed 15 Passenger Van CDL Requirements
October 05, 2009 New FTC Regs on Testimonials and Blogging - Member Only
The Federal Trade Commission (�FTC� or �Commission�) is adopting revised Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising (�the Guides�). The revised Guides include additional changes not incorporated in the proposed revisions published for public comment in November 2008. See 73 FR 72374 (Nov. 28, 2008).
September 01, 2009 New Rules on Compensation if You Are Bumped from an Overbooked Flight - Member Only
Overbooking is not illegal, and most airlines overbook their scheduled flights to a certain extent in order to compensate for "no-shows." Passengers are sometimes left behind or "bumped" as a result. When an oversale occurs, the Department of Transportation (DOT) requires airlines to ask people who aren't in a hurry to give up their seats voluntarily, in exchange for compensation. Those passengers bumped against their will are, with a few exceptions, entitled to compensation.
July 27, 2009 Tennessee White Water Rafting Responsibility Act - Member Only
SENATE BILL NO. 325 By Miller, Southerland, Crowe Substituted for: House Bill No. 29 By Newton, Hawk, DuBois AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 70, Chapter 7, Part 2, to enact the Tennessee White Water Rafting Responsibility Act.
May 06, 2009 New Passport Rules Go Into Effect on June 1st, 2009 - Member Only
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requires all citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda to have a passport or other accepted document that establishes the bearer?s identity and nationality to enter or depart the United States from within the Western Hemisphere. Children will need passports.
March 09, 2009 Motorcoach Enhanced Safety Act, March 9, 2009 - Member Only
H.R. 1396 and a companion bill in the Senate, S. 554, will require all 9 to 15 passenger van drivers crossing state lines as commercial motor vehicles to have a Commercial Drivers License endorsement (CDL). The bill requires more stringent testing and driver qualifications for CDLs. The bills also direct the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to prescribe regulations requiring motorcoaches to be retrofitted with: (1) safety seat belts at each seating; (2) improved firefighting equipment; and (3) devices to enhance visibility. The motorcoach requirements specifically exempt school buses, but as the newsletter goes to press we are still researching the degree to which outfitters buses will be impacted.
February 13, 2009 Forest Service Temp Use to Priority Use Instructions - Member Only
Title instructions and letter to apply for conversion of FS Temp Use to Priority Use
January 16, 2009 Omnibus Lands Bill 2009 - Member Only
111th CONGRESS, 1st Session, S. 22 AN ACT To designate certain land as components of the National Wilderness Preservation System, to authorize certain programs and activities in the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture, and for other purposes.
January 13, 2009 AOA Statement on Stimulus Bill 2009 - Member Only
AOA Statement on Stimulus Bill 2009
November 13, 2008 TN Court of Appeals Ruling on Ocoee Tax - Member Only
The Tennessee Court of Appeals issued a ruling in November 2008 overturning a judgment in Chancery Court that threatened to bankrupt many Ocoee River outfitters.
September 26, 2008 Forest Service Special Uses Handbook revised - Member Only
Excerpt of FSH 2709.11, chapter 40 issued 09-17-2008. Forest Service Special Uses Handbook.
September 24, 2008 Forest Service Permitting Directives - Member Only
The Lowdown on the New Forest Service Permitting Directives
September 17, 2008 Federal Register Notice, Vol. 73, No. 181 - Member Only
Final Directives for Forest Service Outfitting and Guiding Special Use Permits and Insurance Requirements for Forest Service Special Use Permits
April 24, 2008 Proposed Alaska Flat Fee Policy - Member Only
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 76 / Friday, April 18, 2008 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE / Forest Service Notice of Revised Proposed Policy for Outfitting and Guiding Land Use Fees in the Alaska Region ACTION: Notice of revised proposed policy; request for comment.
April 17, 2008 Canadian Custodial Management Directive - Member Only
SCOPE This directive applies to all Custodial Groups in Nahanni National Park Reserve of Canada PURPOSE To ensure a professional standard of care for every Custodial Group that visits Nahanni National Park Reserve of Canada.
April 17, 2008 Custodial Permit Application - Member Only
Permit Application for Nahanni National Park Reserve of Canada This Application includes a Members List and Emergency Contact &amp; Equipment List. All documents must be submitted completely four (4) weeks prior to the requested departure date.
April 17, 2008 Testimony at Congressional Hearings - Member Only
List of Congressional Testimony by David Brown, Executive Director, America Outdoors. Other AO members and representatives have also testified at various times on recreation, management, and outfitter issues.
March 06, 2008 America Outdoors' Comments to Forest Service - Member Only
Comments Submitted by David Brown, Executive Director, America Outdoors to the Federal Register Notice, Proposed Directives for Forest Service Outfitting and Guiding Special Use Permits and Insurance Requirements for Forest Service Special Use Permits, October 19, 2007.
February 22, 2008 Comments on Forest Service Directives - Member Only
Sample comments on FS Directives from White Cloud Outfitters, Challis ID.
February 22, 2008 Sample comments - Member Only
Sample comments on FS Directives Proposed for Forest Service Outfitting and Guiding Special Use Permits and Insurance Requirements for Forest Service Special Use Permits, October 19, 2007.
February 13, 2008 Extension of Comment Notice to Forest Service Directives - Member Only
Notice of Extension of Public Comment Period Proposed Directives for Forest Service Outfitting and Guiding Special Use Permits and Insurance Requirements for Forest Service Special Use Permits
January 30, 2008 Letter to Senator Snowe - Member Only
Letter to Senator Snowe Opposing Section 302 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2007, H.R. 2830.
December 14, 2007 Federal Register Notice Extension of Comment Period - Member Only
Notice of Extension of Public Comment Period. Proposed Directives for Forest Service Outfitting and Guiding Special Use Permits and Insurance Requirements for Forest Service Special Use Permits
November 10, 2007 Interior Board of Land Appeals Decision on Fees - Member Only
Appeal from that portion of the special recreation permit authorization decision of the Winnemucca, Nevada, Field Office, Bureau of Land Management, imposing a stipulation requiring the permit holder to contract with the County for and pay for State and local law enforcement in association with a permitted event, in addition to collecting the fixed-rate permit fee. NV-020-06-EA-11.
October 19, 2007 Federal Register: October 19, 2007 - Member Only
Federal Register Notice Proposed Directives for Forest Service Outfitting and Guiding Special Use Permits and Insurance Requirements for Forest Service Special Use Permits
October 19, 2007 Proposed Handbook Changes 2709 - Member Only
Proposed Handbook Changes to Forest Service Handbook 2709.11 SPECIAL USES HANDBOOK
October 19, 2007 Federal Register Notice FS Permitting Policy - Member Only
September 21, 2007 Letter to Congressman Rahall - Member Only
Ref: National Parks Centennial Fund (H.R. 3094 Public Land Communities Transition Assistance Act of 2007 (H.R. 3058)
September 20, 2007 Overtime Updates - Member Only
August 23, 2007 Appropriations Decisions: B-307319, National Park Service--Special Park Use Fees - Member Only
Appropriations Decisions: B-307319, National Park Service--Special Park Use Fees
August 02, 2007 AO's Statement on HR 3094 - Member Only
HR 3094 stablishes the National Park Centennial Fund. This is America Outdoors' statement to the committee regarding the legislation.
August 02, 2007 AO's Statement on HR 3058 - Member Only
Statement of David Brown, Executive Director of America Outdoors regarding H.R. 3058.
August 01, 2007 House Committee on Natural Resources - Member Only
The members of the House of Representatives Committee on Natural Resources
July 24, 2007 HR 3058 - Member Only
March 12, 2007 AOA Comments on Forest Service permitting policy changes 2007 - Member Only
America Outdoors Comments to US Forest Service Regarding Notice of Proposed Policy: Outfitting and Guiding Land Use Fees in the Alaska Region
March 12, 2007 Notice of Proposed Policy; Federal Register Notice - Member Only
The Alaska Region is proposing to adopt a long-term flat fee policy for outfitters and guides operating in the Alaska Region.
February 05, 2007 Executive Order on Federal Regulatory Planning - Member Only
Further Amendment to Executive Order 12866 on Regulatory Planning and Review
February 01, 2007 NPS Concessions Reform Act of 2007 - Member Only
110th CONGRESS, 1st Session, H. R. 310 To amend the National Park Service Concessions Management Improvement Act of 1998, to extend to additional small businesses the preferential right to renew a concessions contract entered into under such Act, to facilitate the renewal of a commercial use authorization granted under such Act, and for other purposes.
January 03, 2007 Legislative Alert - Member Only
Take Action Now Against the Elimination of the Exemption on State &amp; Local Taxes on Your Services on Navigable Waterways
October 23, 2006 What financial and personal information is releasable under a FOIA request? - Member Only
A U.S. District Court of New Mexico decision from 2003 helps identify for outfitters what information federal agencies can release about permittees and their financial information under the Freedom of Information Act.
July 28, 2006 Statement for the Subcommittee Forests and Forest Health - Member Only
Statement by David Brown, Executive Director, America Outdoors; Colleen Hodson; Dude Ranchers Association; Bob Foster, Colorado Dude Ranchers Association on Working Ranches, Healthy Range and Maintaining Open Space - Subcommittee on Forests and Forest Health, United States House of Representatives, The future of many working ranches and the open space that they provide is dependent on the policies that authorize their recreational use on adjacent federal land...
July 25, 2006 H.R. 5802 NPS Concessions Revisions - Member Only
Extends commercial use authorizations
July 20, 2006 NPS Concession Environmental Audit Questionnaire - Member Only
This questionnaire was developed to gather basic information about your facilities and services required and/or authorized under your concession contract with the park. The audit team will review your answers in order to determine what resources are needed for the environmental audit and to minimize disruption to your facilities and services.
March 21, 2006 Final FS Cost Recovery Rule - Member Only
Final Forest Service Cost Recovery Rules
March 21, 2006 Commercial Use Authorizations - Interim Guidelines - Member Only
Section 418 of the National Parks Omnibus Management Act of 1998, Public Law 105&acirc;?391 (Section 418), authorizes (but does not require) NPS, upon request, to issue commercial use authorizations (CUAs) to persons (referring to individuals, corporations and other entities) to provide commercial services to park area visitors in limited circumstances.
December 22, 2005 FR Recreation Fee Areas Interagency Guidelines - Member Only
Notice of Guidelines for Public Involvement in Establishing Recreation Fee Areas and for Demonstrating How the Public Was Informed on the Use of Recreation Fee Revenues AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA; National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, DOI.
December 22, 2005 Fee Bill 2005 Enrolled - Member Only
108th CONGRESS, 1st Session H. R. 3283 To improve recreational facilities and visitor opportunities on Federal recreational lands by reinvesting receipts from fair and consistent recreational fees and passes, and for other purposes.
December 22, 2005 BLM Fines - Member Only
This proposed rule would update the regulations of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) that tell how to obtain recreation permits for commercial recreational operations, competitive events and activities, organized group activities and events, and individual recreational use of special areas.
August 13, 2004 Outfitter and Guide Special Use Permits - Member Only
Maximum Term for Outfitter and Guide Special Use Permits on National Forest System Lands AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of proposed directive; request for public comment.
July 06, 2004 Categorical Exclusions - Final - Member Only
National Environmental Policy Act Documentation Needed for Certain Special Use Authorizations AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of issuance of final directive.
July 06, 2004 Forest Service 1909.15-2004-3 - Member Only
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND PROCEDURES HANDBOOK CHAPTER 30 - CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION FROM DOCUMENTATION Amendment No.: 1909.15-2004-3
June 23, 2004 Forest Service Appeals Excerpts from Rule - Member Only
In certain instances, those who apply for or hold written authorizations to occupy and use National Forest System lands (i.e., special use permit), may appeal a written decision by an authorized Forest Service line officer with regard to issuance, approval, or administration of the instrument.
March 04, 2004 Outfitter Policy Act Testimony - Member Only
Testimony before the Public Lands and Forest Subcommittee Energy and Natural Resources Committee of the United States Senate
February 09, 2004 Permits for Recreation on Public Lands - Member Only
SUMMARY: This final rule updates the regulations of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) that tell how to obtain recreation permits for commercial recreational operations, competitive events and activities, organized group activities and events, and individual recreational use of special areas.
January 21, 2004 Forest Service Trails Classifications - Member Only
Trail prescriptions describe the desired management of each trail, based on Forest Plan direction. These prescriptions take into account user preferences, setting, protection of sensitive resources, and other management activities. To meet prescription, each trail is assigned an appropriate Trail Class. These general categories are used to identify applicable Trail Design Parameters and to identify basic indicators used for determining the cost to meet national quality standards.
January 12, 2004 Can-Spam Advisory - Member Only
The CAN-SPAM Act of 2003.
November 24, 2003 Can Spam Act S.877 - Member Only
Can Spam Act S. 877 FINDINGS- The Congress finds the following: (1) Electronic mail has become an extremely important and popular means of communication, relied on by millions of Americans on a daily basis for personal and commercial purposes. Its low cost and global reach make it extremely convenient and efficient, and offer unique opportunities for the development and growth of frictionless commerce. Click to read more.
September 15, 2003 Amendments to the FTC's Telemarketing Sales Rule - Member Only
Te Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has amended the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR) to give consumers a choice about whether they want to receive most telemarketing calls.
July 16, 2003 Outfitter and Guide Policy Act - Member Only
Bill introduced by Senator Craig. To establish terms and conditions for use of certain Federal land by outfitters and to facilitate public opportunities for the recreational use and enjoyment of such land.
July 01, 2003 Common Pool Lawsuit - Member Only
America Outdoors is an intervenor in the lawsuit filed by Northwest Rafters and the Warm Springs Tribe, which seeks to impose "common pool" management of use on the Deschutes River. The City of Maupin, the Dalles, City of Madras, Sherman County, Wasco County, Sun Country Tours, High Desert Drifters and Oregon Guides and Packers joined AO in intervening
June 01, 2003 States and Counties Lose Authority to Charge Fees on Navigable Rivers - Member Only
As a result of an obscure provision contained in the Maritime Transportation Act of 2002, state and county governments have lost the ability to levy fees on river traffic on navigable waterways.
May 22, 2003 S. 1107 Recreational Fee Authority - Member Only
March 26, 2003 S. 717 Passenger Van Safety Act - Member Only
108th CONGRESS 1st Session - S. 717 To require increased safety testing of 15-passenger vans, ensure the compliance of 15-passenger vans used as schoolbuses with motor vehicle safety standards applicable to schoolbuses, and for other purposes. Passenger Van Safety Act of 2003 (Introduced in Senate)
January 22, 2003 Forest Service Road Permit Rule - Member Only
Land Uses; Special Uses Requir
November 27, 2002 NPS - Commercial Use Authoriza - Member Only
Commercial Use Authorizations INTERIM GUIDELINES
April 17, 2000 National Park Service Concessions - Member Only
This rule amends 36 CFR Part 51, the National Park Service (NPS)regulations concerning NPS concession contracts, to comply with the requirements of Title IV of the National Parks Omnibus Management Act of 1998 (the 1998 Act).
Get Authority to Operate (MC Number) - Member Only
In FMCSA operating authority is often identified as an "MC," "FF," or "MX" number, depending on the type of authority that is granted. Unlike the USDOT Number application process, a company may need to obtain multiple operating authorities to support its planned business operations. Operating Authority dictates the type of operation a company may run and the cargo it may carry.
How to Participate in Forest Service Forest Plans - Member Only