Relates to the creation of an ATV recreation fund and the use of ATVs.
Impact
If enacted, S08399 will significantly impact state laws related to outdoor recreation and environmental conservation by formally integrating ATV use into the legal framework governing state-managed lands. The legislation will amend existing laws to facilitate the establishment of designated trails, thereby providing clear guidelines for their use and maintenance. This will help reduce the environmental degradation associated with unauthorized ATV use on public lands while offering structured recreational opportunities. The bill also delineates responsibilities for users, including adherence to safety protocols and vehicle maintenance requirements, which are aimed at reducing accidents and ensuring responsible participation.
Summary
Bill S08399 proposes the establishment of an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Recreation Fund and the regulation of ATV use across New York State. The bill aims to create a sustainable network of ATV trails while ensuring the safety of users and minimizing environmental impact. The fund will be managed by the office of parks, recreation, and historic preservation, in collaboration with the department of environmental conservation. It will oversee trail designation, maintenance, and the promotion of responsible ATV use for recreation and commerce. Additionally, the bill aims to enhance access for individuals with disabilities by implementing motorized access programs within the trail network.
Contention
There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding its potential environmental implications and the balance between recreational access and preservation of natural habitats. Stakeholders, including environmental advocacy groups and local communities, may express concerns about the environmental impact of increased ATV traffic on public lands. Furthermore, the bill's provisions for trail designation and maintenance could lead to disputes over land management practices and priorities, particularly in sensitive ecological areas. Questions may arise concerning how effectively the collected fees will support enforcement and environmental education efforts and whether the funds will be sufficient to meet the bill's objectives.
Enacts the "all electric ATVs act"; requires a study to be conducted on the feasibility of installing electric ATV charging stations along all state-maintained trails where use of ATVs is permitted, with the goal to have 100% all electric ATVs within the state by 2035; increases the weight limit of ATVs to 2 thousand pounds dry weight; amends fee schedules for registration of ATVs; directs a portion of funds collected from registration of electric ATVs to be donated to the federal EPA.
Prohibits the discrimination of persons based on their religious attire in recreational water parks, including, but not limited to, beaches, lakes, pools and other water facilities operated on land or water for recreational use.
Relates to the liability of landowners who permit recreational uses of their land; establishes landowners owe no duty to keep premises safe for entry, passage over premises or other recreational uses or to give warning of any hazardous condition or use of or structure or activity on such premises to persons entering for such purposes.
Health occupations: health professionals; permanent revocation of license or registration if convicted of sexual conduct under pretext of medical treatment; provide for. Amends sec. 16226 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16226). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4121'23