87R19021 MP-F
By: Zwiener H.B. No. 4499
Substitute the following for H.B. No. 4499:
By: Krause C.S.H.B. No. 4499
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a study of the feasibility of establishing a regional
connected trails system.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. APPLICABILITY. This Act does not apply to
trails used for motorized vehicles.
SECTION 2. STUDY. (a) The Parks and Wildlife Department
shall conduct a study on establishing a regional connected trails
system throughout the state to provide recreational opportunities
for Texans and highlight this state's scenery, wildlife, and
history. The study must evaluate and may develop recommendations
regarding:
(1) the feasibility of establishing a regional
connected trails system;
(2) proposed locations of regional connected trails;
(3) strategies for integrating existing trails into a
regional connected trails system;
(4) the capacity of the department to oversee a
regional connected trails system;
(5) the proposed allocation of state resources to fund
a regional connected trails system; and
(6) alternative proposals to increase, connect, and
protect outdoor recreational trails.
(b) In conducting the study, the department shall consult
with:
(1) Texas Department of Transportation;
(2) Texas Historical Commission;
(3) federal land management agencies; and
(4) counties and municipalities who maintain parks
with relevant trails.
SECTION 3. REPORT. Not later than December 1, 2022, the
Parks and Wildlife Department shall submit to the governor, the
lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives,
and the chair of each committee of the legislature that has primary
jurisdiction over the department a written report that summarizes
the findings of the study conducted and any recommendations
developed under Section 2 of this Act.
SECTION 4. EXPIRATION. This Act expires February 1, 2023.
SECTION 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Act takes effect
immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members
elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas
Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for
immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2021.