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SB 645

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF ATV AND DIRT BIKE REGISTRATION FEES TO FUND ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE TRAILS ON STATE-OWNED PROPERTY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Sampson

Connecticut bill dedicates ATV and dirt bike registration fees to build and maintain off-road trails on state property, creating dedicated recreational infrastructure funded by users.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Environment
#all-terrainvehicles #stateproperty
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Bill Summary · SB 645

Legislative bill overview

SB 645 directs Connecticut to allocate ATV and dirt bike registration fees toward constructing and maintaining off-road vehicle trails on state-owned land. Currently, these registration revenues likely flow into general funds or other purposes. The bill creates a dedicated funding stream specifically for trail infrastructure.

Why is this important

Off-road vehicle enthusiasts currently have limited legal riding options in Connecticut, which can drive unregulated trail use on private land and environmental damage. Dedicated state trails with proper maintenance could reduce trespassing, concentrate environmental impact on designated areas, and generate predictable funding for trail management. This addresses both recreational access and land stewardship concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental impact: Designating state land for ATV/dirt bike use may conflict with conservation goals, wildlife protection, and forest management priorities on those properties
  • Funding mechanism: Dedicating registration fees to trails removes flexibility from general budgets and raises questions about whether users should pay for their own infrastructure versus general taxpayer support
  • Trail maintenance costs: Registration fee revenues may not fully cover long-term trail maintenance, potentially creating unfunded liabilities for the state
  • Land use conflicts: State properties often serve multiple purposes (hiking, wildlife habitat, timber management); ATV trails could create use conflicts and require additional management coordination

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

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