Michigan House Bill HB5597

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/24
• Refer: 3/19/24

Caption

Recreation: state parks; state park and forest campsite reservations; give residents first opportunity for. Amends secs. 74114 & 83106 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.74114 & 324.83106).

Impact

If enacted, HB 5597 will have a significant impact on how reservations are managed in Michigan's state parks. The requirement to prioritize state residents is aimed at enhancing local engagement with natural resources and ensuring that they have access to these facilities before they are opened to nonresidents. Additionally, the bill allows the Department to establish and collect fees for activities in state parks, which would contribute to the state park improvement account. However, any proposed fee increases for camping permits must be communicated in advance to the relevant legislative committees, ensuring transparency in fee adjustments.

Summary

House Bill 5597 is proposed legislation aimed at amending sections 74114 and 83106 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. The bill primarily focuses on two key aspects: the reservations for campgrounds and fees established by the Department of Natural Resources for state parks. It mandates that any campground or shelter reservation in state parks for nonresidents must first be made available to Michigan residents for at least two weeks, ensuring that residents have priority access to recreational facilities.

Contention

The legislation has sparked discussions regarding its implications for nonresidents, who may feel disadvantaged by the reservation requirements. Proponents of the bill argue that it is essential for maintaining the state’s commitment to its residents, promoting local tourism, and encouraging use of state parks by Michigan citizens. On the other hand, critics may see it as a restriction that could limit opportunities for out-of-state visitors, which could potentially reduce revenue generated from tourism and overall park usage.