Assembly Resolution No. 617

BY: M. of A. DeStefano

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
June 2023, as Great Outdoors Month in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official months that are set aside to promote the participation of
recreational activities in New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 2023, as Great
Outdoors Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of National Great Outdoors Month; and

WHEREAS, Great Outdoors Month first started as a Great Outdoors Week
under President Bill Clinton in 1998, to increase jobs and the gross
domestic product (GDP) of the country by getting people to enjoy and
appreciate nature; it was so popular, it was expanded to the entire
month of June; and

WHEREAS, In 2016, the Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact
Act was enacted in order to study America's outdoor recreation economy;
the report stated outdoor recreation had contributed more than $412
billion, which is 2.2% of the total GDP, to the economy, and outdoor
recreation had the fastest growth of any industry, leading to 4.5
million jobs; and

WHEREAS, Great Outdoors Month is a perfect time for people to go out
and explore all that nature has to offer, and is dedicated to the
country's diverse landscapes, which boast dense forests, long winding
rivers, tranquil lakes, rocky mountains, and much more; and

WHEREAS, Great Outdoors Month invites us to discover a much-needed
new lease on life, both mentally and physically; and

WHEREAS, Being outdoors, surrounded by nature, may reduce anger,
fear, and stress and increase pleasant feelings; exposure to nature not
only makes a person feel better emotionally, it contributes to their
physical wellbeing, reducing blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension,
and the production of stress hormones; and

WHEREAS, Great Outdoors Month is a celebration of nature, taking a
break from work and our hectic lives, and the outdoors which leads us on
the paths of adventure, adrenaline rush, and so much more; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body, representing the people of the State
of New York, supports this vital month and encourages the citizens of
this great Empire State to participate in Great Outdoors Month
activities scheduled throughout the state and to bring attention to such
activities that bolster our state's economic and overall well-being;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 2023, as Great
Outdoors Month in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.