New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB397

Introduced

12/12/23

Refer

12/12/23

Report Pass

4/9/24

Caption

Making an appropriation for OHRV trails.

Impact

The passage of SB397 is expected to positively impact state laws by providing the necessary funding for infrastructure that supports outdoor recreational activities. This funding is particularly crucial following substantial damage caused by recent weather events, which may have undermined trail safety and accessibility. Consequently, restoring these trails not only benefits the recreational community but can also have economic implications, promoting tourism and outdoor activities in the region. There is an acknowledgment that funds may also be supplemented through federal assistance, particularly from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), albeit at a limited reimbursement rate.

Summary

Senate Bill 397 (SB397) proposes an appropriation of $2 million for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, specifically aimed at fixing and maintaining Off-Highway Recreational Vehicle (OHRV) and snowmobile trails that were damaged due to weather-related events in 2023. The funds would be allocated to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, which intends to distribute the money through its established grant-in-aid process. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that these appropriated funds will be nonlapsing, ensuring that if not immediately utilized, they remain accessible for future needs related to trail maintenance.

Contention

While the bill seemingly enjoys support for its intent to repair critical recreational infrastructure, potential contentions could arise from discussions regarding oversight and management of the funds. Stakeholders might be concerned about the efficiency and transparency in the fund distribution process, especially given the involvement of state and federal agencies like FEMA. As this appropriation comes from the General Fund, there may also be debates concerning budget priorities and resource allocation within the state's overall fiscal planning.

Latest NH SB397 Activity

View All Events: NH 2024 Regular Session SB397

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB127

Extending the closing date of the OHRV trails on the Connecticut Lakes headwaters working forest property.

NH SB505

(New Title) relative to applications for guide licenses and repealing the fee for temporary registration of nonresidents relative to OHRVs.

NH HB1058

enabling the carrying of a firearm on an OHRV when such OHRV is being operated on private property.

NH SB35

Making an appropriation for rail trail project matching funds.

NH SB115

Making an appropriation for regional drinking water infrastructure.

NH SB604

making an appropriation to the university system of New Hampshire.

NH SB240

Making an appropriation to the department of environmental services for eligible water projects.

NH SB662

making an appropriation to the department of natural and cultural resources for renovations to the Northwood Meadows Lake Dam.

NH HB619

Making an appropriation to the solid waste management fund.

NH HB619

making an appropriation to the solid waste management fund.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

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MD HB390

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MD HB0390

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MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

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PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1220

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.