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.
Making an appropriation to the department of health and human services to fund the Merrimack, New Hampshire Kidney Cancer Incidence Phase 3 Feasibility study.
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, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.