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HR 955

OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE TOURISM

104th Regular Session Introduced by Jason Bunting and 25 co-sponsors

Promotes and regulates OHV tourism in Illinois, funding trails and safety, designating areas, and fostering partnerships to boost recreation and local economies.

Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Brad Halbrook
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 955

Overview

HR 955 (104th Illinois General Assembly) is titled “Off-Highway Vehicle Tourism.” The bill appears to focus on activities, regulations, and economic considerations related to off-highway vehicle (OHV) tourism within the state. It lists a broad group of co-sponsors, indicating cross-cutting support among legislators, though the exact text of the bill is not provided here. The summary below outlines the likely scope based on the title and typical legislative content for OHV-related measures.

Purpose and Intent

  • To promote and regulate OHV tourism activities in Illinois.
  • To support economic development and tourism revenue linked to OHV use.
  • To establish guidelines, permissions, and responsibilities for OHV infrastructure, access, and safety within the state.
  • To potentially create partnerships among state agencies, local governments, and private sector stakeholders to advance OHV tourism.

Key Provisions (typical elements likely addressed)

Note: The following items reflect common components of OHV tourism legislation. The exact text of HR 955 should be consulted for precise language and applicability.

  • Definition and scope of OHVs: Clarifies what vehicles are covered (e.g., ATVs, dirt bikes, utility-terrain vehicles) and the geographic areas affected (state parks, forest preserves, public lands, designated OHV trails).
  • Designation of OHV trails and areas: Establishes or expands designated OHV areas, trail networks, or motorized recreation zones to support tourism.
  • Access and permitting: Outlines access rights for OHV users on designated lands, as well as permit requirements, fee structures, and potential exemptions (e.g., residents, youth programs).
  • Safety and rider requirements: Sets safety standards, helmet and protective gear recommendations, and rider education or certification programs.
  • Environmental and land-use safeguards: Includes measures to protect natural resources, erosion control, wildlife considerations, and restoration requirements after trail work or events.
  • Funding and economic support: Provisions for funding OHV infrastructure (trails, signage, parking, staging areas), grant programs, and possibly state matching funds or local cost-sharing.
  • Partnerships and governance: Creates or empowers advisory councils, partnerships with local governments, tourism departments, or outdoor recreation organizations to manage OHV tourism initiatives.
  • Revenue use and accountability: Specifies how any collected fees or dollars will be spent (e.g., trail maintenance, safety programs, enforcement) and reporting requirements.
  • Enforcement and compliance: Defines enforcement authority for OHV regulations and penalties for violations.
  • Public input and consultation: Requirements for public hearings, stakeholder engagement, or community input in trail designations or tourism programs.
  • Administrative references: Identifies the agencies involved (e.g., state Department of Natural Resources, tourism offices) and effective dates.

Who Would Be Affected

  • OHV riders and enthusiasts who use designated trails and areas.
  • Local communities benefiting from OHV tourism through increased visitation and spending.
  • Land managers and state agencies responsible for parks, forests, and recreation areas.
  • Businesses related to outdoor recreation, including equipment retailers, guide services, lodging, and restaurants.
  • Potential residents living near designated OHV areas who may experience access, noise, or environmental considerations.
  • Event organizers and tourism promoters engaged in OHV-related activities.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Legislative process: As a House bill in the 104th Illinois General Assembly, HR 955 would need to pass the Illinois House, move to the Senate (and committee considerations), and could be subject to amendments before potential enactment.
  • Fiscal notes: If funding is involved, a fiscal impact statement would typically accompany the bill, outlining costs, revenue projections, and ongoing funding needs.
  • Implementation timeline: The bill may specify an effective date (e.g., immediate upon passage or a future date) and phasing for program rollouts, trail designation, or funding programs.
  • Oversight and sunset provisions: Possible clauses establishing periodic review or sunsetting of programs unless reauthorized.

Potential Impacts and Considerations

  • Economic: Potential boost to tourism-related businesses and local economies through OHV visitation.
  • Environmental: Need to balance recreation with habitat protection, trail maintenance, and wildlife considerations.
  • Safety: Emphasis on rider education, helmet use, and compliance to reduce accidents.
  • Local governance: Increased collaboration between state agencies and local governments for trail development and management.
  • Equity and access: Consideration of diverse communities’ access to OHV opportunities and infrastructure.

For a precise understanding, please refer to the full text of HR 955 (104th Illinois General Assembly) to verify exact language, provisions, funding mechanisms, and implementation details.

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

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