Congressional boating caucus gets new leadership

Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.) and Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.) will head the Congressional Boating Caucus in the 112th Congress, the National Marine Manufacturers Association announced Tuesday.

The NMMA, which created the caucus in 1989, hailed both lawmakers as effective spokespersons for the recreational boating industry, which they represent.

“Reps. Miller and Donnelly have been active champions for marine manufacturers in the House of Representatives, and so it is only fitting that they lead the Caucus in this new Congress,” NMMA President Thom Dammrich said in a statement. “We thank them for their dedication and leadership and look forward to working with them on the issues that not only impact the nearly 70 million boaters on the water, but hundreds of thousands of marine industry employees.”

Both Miller and Donnelly expressed excitement about leading the Boating Caucus.

“As life-long boater, I know the important role the marine and boating industry plays in many of our nation’s communities. I have been proud to be a part of this bipartisan caucus for years, and am pleased to once again co-chair this group of members,” Miller said. “Together, we will work hard to ensure that the use of our waters remain safe, enjoyable and economically viable for years to come.”

“Boating has long been a favorite American pastime, and the industry strengthens our nation’s manufacturing sector,” Donnelly added. “I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House to raise awareness and promote the priorities of boaters, both recreational and commercial, as well as those of the boating industry.”

The lawmakers will speak at the NMMA's American Boating Congress in Washington in May, the organization said.