The Tennessee General Assembly has passed new legislation designed to strengthen economic growth, improve recreation opportunities, and protect the long-term health of the Ocoee River\u2014one of the state\u2019s most important outdoor destinations.<\/p>\n
House Bill 2425, sponsored by State Rep. Dan Howell (R-Ocoee), expands how funds from the Ocoee River Recreation and Economic Development Fund can be used. Representative Howell is Chairman of the ORRED Board. \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n
Under the new legislation, funds may now support infrastructure improvements, tourism promotion, event development, and other operational needs within the river\u2019s management area, which is now one of Tennessee\u2019s newest state parks. <\/p>\n
The bill also improves how decisions are made by requiring a simple majority vote for fund expenditures and by adding the director of the Division of State Parks to the governing board, helping streamline oversight and coordination.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Ocoee River is one of Tennessee\u2019s premier outdoor destinations,\u201d Rep. Howell said. \u201cThis legislation ensures we can continue to grow tourism, support local businesses, and preserve the river for future generations.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Ocoee River holds a unique place in global sports history. It hosted the whitewater events during the 1996 Summer Olympics and remains the only natural river ever used for Olympic whitewater competition. <\/p>\n
In addition to boosting economic opportunities, the legislation includes measures to protect the river\u2019s long-term sustainability. It reduces the number of commercial rafting permits from 24 to 12, through attrition, while allowing current operators to continue serving visitors. The bill also allows limited transfer of existing permits, with approval from TDEC, while balancing business stability with environmental stewardship.<\/p>\n
The Ocoee River attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and supports a thriving outdoor recreation economy, including whitewater rafting, hiking, mountain biking and fishing. The history of the Ocoee Region is also of great interest to many visitors. <\/p>\n
House Bill 2425 now heads to the governor\u2019s desk for signature and will take effect July 1.<\/p>\n
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