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HF 130

A bill for an act establishing a scenic byways enhancement fund, including by providing for voluntary contributions to the fund, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Bergan

HF 130 creates a Scenic Byways Enhancement Fund, funded by voluntary $1 contributions during vehicle registration, to support and maintain scenic byways statewide.

Withdrawn.
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Bill Summary · HF 130

Summary of HF 130 - Scenic Byways Enhancement Fund

Purpose and Intent

House File 130 (HF 130) aims to establish a Scenic Byways Enhancement Fund within the state treasury. The fund is intended to support the development, maintenance, and enhancement of scenic byways throughout the state, including initiatives for litter prevention. The bill encourages voluntary contributions from vehicle registration applicants to bolster this fund.

Key Provisions

  1. Creation of the Fund:

    • A new fund, titled the Scenic Byways Enhancement Fund, is created under the control of the state’s transportation department.
    • The fund will consist of:
      • Moneys transferred from section 321.44B.
      • Any other appropriated or deposited funds.
  2. Use of Fund:

    • Funds will be appropriated for:
      • Support and development of scenic byways.
      • Maintenance and enhancement activities, including litter prevention.
    • Unencumbered or unobligated moneys at the end of a fiscal year will not revert but will remain available for future expenditures.
  3. Voluntary Contributions:

    • During vehicle registration renewals, applicants will be asked to make a voluntary contribution of $1 or more to the Scenic Byways Enhancement Fund.
    • 100% of the contributions collected by county treasurers and the department will be sent to the state treasurer for deposit in the fund.
    • Counties may retain up to 5% of the contributions collected for their general fund.
  4. Administrative Rules:

    • The transportation department is tasked with adopting rules to administer the voluntary contribution process.

Affected Parties

  • Vehicle Registrants: Individuals renewing their vehicle registrations will have the opportunity to contribute to the fund.
  • Transportation Department: Responsible for managing the fund and implementing related programs.
  • Counties: Will facilitate the collection of contributions and may retain a small percentage for local use.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 27, 2025
  • Subcommittee Actions:
    • Recommended passage on February 5, 2025.
    • Subcommittee meeting held on February 3, 2025.
  • Committee Reports:
    • Approved by the committee on February 12, 2025, with a unanimous vote (20 Yeas, 0 Nays).
    • Renumbered as HF 581 on February 24, 2025.

Conclusion

HF 130 represents a proactive approach to enhancing the state's scenic byways through a dedicated funding mechanism supported by voluntary contributions. By establishing this fund, the bill seeks to promote tourism, environmental stewardship, and community engagement in maintaining the beauty and accessibility of scenic routes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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