By: Zwiener H.B. No. 4499
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a study of the feasibility of establishing a regional
connected trails program.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. (a) The Parks and Wildlife Department shall
conduct a study and issue a report regarding the feasibility of
establishing regional connected trails system throughout the state
that provides recreational opportunities for Texans and highlights
the state's scenery, wildlife, and history.
(b) In conducting the study, the department shall consult
with: Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Historical
Commission, federal land management agencies, and counties and
municipalities who maintain parks with relevant trails.
(c) The report required by Subsection (a) of this section
must include:
(1) potential regional connected trail projects;
(2) strategies for integrating existing hiking trails
into the projects;
(3) the capacity of the department to oversee regional
connected trails;
(4) allocation of state resources to fund this type of
program;
(5) Proposals to increase, connect, and protect
outdoor recreational trails across the state.
(d) This section does not apply to trails used for motorized
vehicles.
(d) Not later than December 1, 2022, the department shall
report to the governor and the legislature the findings of the study
and any recommendations developed by the department under this
section.
(e) This section expires September 1, 2023.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2021.