Subscribe to Outdoor States Podcast on iTunes.

Theme music by Chicky Stoltz

"Is it a lack of funding? Or a lack of priorities?”

“Is the rise of State (“backpack tax” proposals) compensating for a lack of leadership on outdoor funding at the national level?”

“Can the LWCF truly take care of all the funding requests out there for recreation, conservation and stewardship?”

This spring, after Washington state legislators rolled out a proposal for a tax increase on outdoor products (HB2122), outdoor industry companies and retailers in the state rallied to oppose the measure. Known as a “backpack tax,” this targeted fundraising tool has emerged at the state level in the past, but in the current climate of proposed tariff increases and other economic challenges, there’s never been a better time to get a little more educated about the issue. Amy Roberts, executive director of Outdoor Industry Association, goes deep on the topic in this interview, providing both background and anticipated outcomes.

Helpful links:

What is an Excise Tax (LINK)

What is a Tariff (LINK)

Dingell-Johnson Act (LINK)

Pittman-Robertson Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (LINK)

OIA: Oppose Washington Excise Tax on Outdoor Gear (LINK)

Conservation Northwest: Support Washington HB 2122 (LINK)

Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Act (LINK)

Oregon’s Bicycle Excise Tax (LINK)