WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 743

AN ACT relating to outdoor recreation.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kim King and 1 co-sponsor

HB 743 aims to promote, fund, and expand outdoor recreation access and infrastructure across Kentucky, coordinating state agencies and local partners to boost tourism, economy, and

to Tourism & Outdoor Recreation (H)
#technicalcorrections
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 743

Overview

HB 743 (2026RS) from Kentucky aims to address outdoor recreation within the state, with the bill referred to the Tourism & Outdoor Recreation committee. The available action history indicates introductory and committee-stage progression in early 2026, but the specific textual provisions are not provided here. The summary below focuses on what is typically involved in an outdoor recreation bill and what to watch for as the measure advances.

Purpose and intent

  • To promote and support outdoor recreation activities across Kentucky.
  • To enhance access to outdoor recreational resources and facilities.
  • To align state policy with potential economic development, tourism, conservation, and quality-of-life goals related to outdoor recreation.

Key provisions (typical elements to expect)

Note: The exact text of HB 743 is not included in the provided information. Based on the title and context, potential areas the bill could address include:
- Establishment or expansion of outdoor recreation programs or funding.
- Creation or modernization of state-improvement projects (parks, trails, boat ramps, fishing access, camping facilities).
- Grant programs or assistance to localities for outdoor recreation infrastructure.
- Coordination among state agencies (e.g., Tourism, Parks, Natural Resources) to advance recreation initiatives.
- Reporting requirements to the General Assembly on program outcomes, economic impact, or participation metrics.
- Policies related to private-public partnerships or permitting for outdoor recreation facilities.
- Environmental and conservation safeguards associated with recreation projects.

Who would be affected

  • Residents: improved access to parks, trails, and outdoor facilities; potential changes to user fees or permit processes.
  • Local governments and municipalities: eligibility for grants or partnerships to develop recreation infrastructure.
  • Outdoor recreation businesses and tourism operators: potential increase in visitors and economic activity.
  • State agencies: responsibilities for administering programs, funding, and reporting.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Action history shows:
    • February 25, 2026: Introduced in the House.
    • February 25, 2026: Referred to Committee on Committees (H) (a preliminary procedural step).
    • March 4, 2026: Referred to Tourism & Outdoor Recreation (H) committee (suggesting subsequent committee consideration focusing on outdoor recreation implications).
  • Next steps typically include:
    • Committee review and potential amendments.
    • Passage by the House, followed by consideration by the Senate.
    • Potential fiscal note or impact assessment if funding is involved.
    • Final enactment or defeat, with any required gubernatorial approval.

Potential impacts to monitor

  • Fiscal impact: funding levels for recreation projects, operating costs, and any accompanying tax or fee changes.
  • Economic impact: anticipated boost to local tourism, job creation, and business activity related to outdoor recreation.
  • Access and equity: whether the bill expands access to underserved communities and protects public land access.
  • Environmental considerations: compatibility with conservation goals and any permitting or mitigation requirements.

What to look for in the text (once available)

  • Specific definitions of “outdoor recreation” and the scope of programs or facilities covered.
  • Amounts, sources, and duration of any appropriations or grants.
  • Application processes, eligibility criteria, and reporting requirements.
  • Roles of affected agencies and any cross-agency coordination mechanisms.
  • Sunset clauses, renewal provisions, or performance benchmarks.

If the full bill text becomes available, I can provide a detailed, line-by-line summary of provisions, fiscal notes, and anticipated impacts.

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

Sign in to ask a question.