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Bill Summary · HB 371

Bill Summary — HB 371 (2026RS), Kentucky

Purpose and intent

HB 371 is an act relating to outdoor recreation. The bill appears to focus on promoting outdoor recreational activities within Kentucky, potentially through program support, funding mechanisms, and policy adjustments aimed at expanding access, experience, and investment in outdoor recreation opportunities. The specific aim is to enhance the development, use, and sustainable management of outdoor recreational resources across the Commonwealth.

Key provisions and changes (as indicated by bill title and context)

  • Establishes or supports programs related to outdoor recreation, which may include designation of funds, grants, or incentives to advance outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, boating, hunting, trail development, and related tourism.
  • Potential provisions for coordination with economic development and workforce investment goals, recognizing outdoor recreation as an engine for job creation, tourism revenue, and local investment.
  • Possible framework for state agencies to collaborate on outdoor recreation projects, including planning, permitting, and management of public lands, parks, trails, and natural resources.
  • May include measures to improve accessibility and inclusivity in outdoor recreation, ensuring broader public access to parks and recreational sites.
  • Could address sustainability, conservation, and responsible use of natural resources to balance recreation with environmental protection.

Who or what would be affected

  • State agencies involved in natural resources, parks and recreation, tourism, and economic development.
  • Local governments and communities seeking to develop or expand outdoor recreation infrastructure and programs.
  • Outdoor recreation businesses, tour operators, guides, equipment suppliers, and related tourism sectors.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts and the general public who benefit from improved access, facilities, and opportunities for recreation.
  • Potentially landowners and land managers where new trails, parks, or recreation facilities are developed.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill has been introduced in the Kentucky House and referred to the Committee on Committees, with subsequent referral to the Economic Development & Workforce Investment Committee as of the latest action (January 22, 2026).
  • The action history indicates a standard committee referral process typical of early-stage legislation, with potential for amendments, hearings, and votes in committee before moving to the full chamber for consideration.
  • Specific fiscal notes, appropriation details, implementation timelines, and effective dates are not provided in the available information, but such elements are commonly addressed in companion sections of outdoor recreation bills (funding cycles, grant application periods, and sunset or renewal provisions).

Potential impact and considerations

  • If enacted with funding and program specifics, the bill could stimulate outdoor recreation-related investment, create or sustain jobs, and support local economies through tourism and park/trail infrastructure.
  • Environmental safeguards and land-use considerations would be important to ensure sustainable use of resources and compatibility with conservation goals.
  • The effectiveness of the bill will depend on the level of funding, the clarity of program administration, and the coordination across state agencies and local partners.

Note: The available summary is based on the bill’s title, session context, and standard provisions typically associated with outdoor recreation legislation. For a precise understanding, the full text of HB 371 and any fiscal notes or amendments should be reviewed once published.

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

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