NMMA Applauds House Passage of the PERMIT Act to Strengthen Recreation Infrastructure and Boater Access

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NMMA applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for advancing H.R. 3898, the Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act, a significant step toward modernizing federal permitting processes and reducing delays for critical infrastructure projects across the nation.

For the recreational boating industry, efficient and predictable permitting is closely tied to access. Projects such as dredging small harbors, maintaining channels, improving marinas, and upgrading waterfront infrastructure are essential to safe navigation, healthy ecosystems, and vibrant recreation economies. For too long, many of these projects have faced unnecessary delays, limiting access to public waters and slowing local investment.

The PERMIT Act addresses these challenges by modernizing Clean Water Act permitting processes, establishing clearer timelines for permit reviews, and improving how permits are renewed and maintained. These updates are designed to reduce administrative backlogs while continuing to protect water quality, helping communities move forward with infrastructure investments that support outdoor recreation and economic growth.

Recreational boating is a major American industry, generating $230 billion in annual economic impact and supporting more than 812,000 jobs nationwide. With 95 percent of boats sold in the United States made domestically and the vast majority of marine manufacturers operating as small businesses, timely infrastructure improvements are essential to sustaining a strong, competitive marine manufacturing sector.

"Smart, predictable permitting is essential for the recreation infrastructure that powers America's boating economy," said Robyn Boerstling, SVP of Government Relations and Chief Advocacy Officer at NMMA. "Recreational boating generates $230 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 812,000 jobs, yet many of the projects that keep our waterways safe and accessible are slowed by uncertainty and delays. By streamlining reviews and modernizing how permits are issued, the PERMIT Act would help maintain and strengthen access to the water and support an ecosystem of small businesses that power the recreational boating industry across coastal, lakefront, and communities reliant on our navigable waterways."

NMMA's letter of support to the House can be viewed here and was recognized on the House Transportation and Infrastructure site yesterday with other coalition supporters: What They Are Saying: Growing Support for PERMIT Act's Permitting Reforms | Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

NMMA looks forward to continued engagement with policymakers as the legislation moves forward, and remains committed to advancing solutions that strengthen recreation infrastructure, expand access to public waters, and keep America's recreational boating industry globally competitive.