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APRA Legislative Platform
APRA Advocacy Task Force - '08/'09 Workplan & Platform
What's New in Arizona?
"Governor Appoints Task Force to Review Condition of State Parks"
· Quality Education and Leadership
APRA recommends support of Arizona's universities and degree programs that provide professional training for, and certification of, tomorrow's parks and
recreation industry leaders.
· Before & After School Program Licensing
APRA urges government leaders to adopt standards that remain flexible enough to address non-traditional settings and environments such as those provided by parks and recreation agencies.
· Staff, Volunteer and Participant Protection
APRA supports criminal penalties for assault and battery of staff and volunteers in programs provided by recreational agencies. APRA supports adequate screening and background checks of volunteers and staff.
· Heritage Fund and the Land and Water Conservation Fund
APRA encourages appropriations to Arizona State Parks to assist ArizonaArizona for state and local park and recreation projects. APRA urges government leaders to maintain original funding levels and usage of State Lottery Funds dedicated to the Arizona Heritage Fund. APRA supports the full funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund in the US Department of Interior appropriations to bring funds to cities and counties in meeting park and recreation needs.
· Youth and Families
APRA supports increased funding for youth programs in order to provide the best recreation opportunities for all economic levels. After school programs and recreation leagues provide the opportunities for children to model responsible adult behavior. The most needy of these children are often those least capable of paying program and league participation fees.
· Recreation and Health
APRA urges legislators to fund and support recreation programs as a means to achieving improved health for Arizona's citizens. Active lifestyles can prevent and manage chronic diseases including obesity, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
· Recreational Immunity
APRA supports legislation which expand definitions contained in the recreational immunity statute and provide local governments immunity and protection for recreational use of public lands.
· Economy and Tourism
APRA recommends funding to support and expand facilities and venues that attract tourists whose spending generates tax dollars for Arizona. communities
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RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Advocate for state and federal policies that promote increased capital investment in public park, recreation, cultural and performing arts sites and facilities.
CRIME PREVENTION
Advocate for state and federal sources that promote the role of recreation and park programs and services in preventing juvenile delinquency and anti-social behavior.
HEALTH, AGING AND ACCESS
Advocate for recognition of the role of parks and recreation in health promotion and disease prevention strategies and ensure access for people with disabilities and older adults.
ENVIRONMENT
Advocate for natural resource protection while recognizing the importance of appropriately balanced recreation access.
CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES
Advocate for full consideration of the contributions of public recreation, cultural arts and park systems in fostering human development, improving the quality of life for children, youth and families and building resiliency.
TRAILS/GREENWAYS
Advocate for state and federal programs that increase investment in the development of trails and related facilities.
LIABILITY
Advocate for state and federal policies that increase public access to outdoor recreation areas and experiences.
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APRA is a not-for-profit organization established in 1950 representing Arizona residents who are joined together with a common bond of interest in recreation and park services.
- APRA consists of over 1,000 professional and citizen members from city, town, county, state, federal and private agencies who support quality recreation programs, facilities, parks and conservation areas.
- APRA calls upon Legislators to take leadership roles in addressing the need to maintain and improve the quality of life for Arizona 's citizens by supporting the APRA Legislative Platform.
- APRA Looks forward to working with elected officials, stakeholders and citizens to accomplish APRA legislative priorities.
- APRA is closely aligned with the National Recreation and park Association (NRPA) regarding federal legislation. For information on national issues, contact nrpapolicy@aol.com.
- APRA Legislative Contact: R.J. Cardin, RJCardin@mail.maricopa.gov
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