Massachusetts House Bill H924

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

To establish a free snowmobile weekend

Impact

If enacted, the bill would amend Chapter 90B of the General Laws, facilitating a designated weekend where Massachusetts state snowmobile registration is waived for eligible non-residents. This could attract tourists to the region, potentially boosting local economies reliant on recreational spending, as snowmobiling can draw individuals to local businesses and services during the winter months.

Summary

House Bill 924 proposes the establishment of an annual 'free snowmobile weekend' in Massachusetts, allowing non-residents to operate snowmobiles on public lands without the requirement of state registration. The bill aims to promote outdoor recreational activities during the winter season, fostering greater participation from visitors who may be interested in snowmobiling. The key framework of the bill involves partnering with the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts to ensure that the event is well-organized and publicized.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding Bill H924 may include discussions about safety and environmental impacts associated with increased snowmobile traffic on public lands. Stakeholders, including environmental organizations and local residents, might express concerns regarding land use and the potential for accidents or noise disturbances during the free weekend. Overall, the proposed legislation aims to balance recreational opportunities with responsible land management.

Additional_info

The bill does not appear to have a substantial legislative history or extensive voting discussions at this time, indicating that it may still be in early stages of consideration. However, support from recreational groups is likely as they see the benefits of increased participation in winter sports activities.