RELATING TO GOVERNMENT PROPERTY.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Angus McKelvey

SB 1477 enhances public access to small boat harbors and launching ramps by transferring government properties and funding their maintenance, boosting local recreation and tourism.

Carried over to 2024 Regular Session.

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Overview

Bill Number: SB 1477
Title: Relating to Government Property
Status: Carried over to 2024 Regular Session
Introduced: January 25, 2023
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Appropriation, Board of Land and Natural Resources, Counties, Department of Land and Natural Resources, Launching Ramps, Small Boat Harbors, Transfer, Wharfs

SB 1477 aims to address the management and appropriation of government property, specifically focusing on facilities related to small boat harbors and launching ramps.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 1477 is to facilitate the transfer and management of government-owned properties that are critical for maritime activities, including small boat harbors and launching ramps. The bill seeks to ensure that these facilities are adequately maintained and accessible to the public, thereby promoting recreational boating and related activities.

Key Provisions

Appropriation of Funds: The bill includes provisions for the appropriation of funds necessary for the maintenance and improvement of small boat harbors and launching ramps.

Transfer of Property: It outlines the processes for transferring government properties related to maritime activities to appropriate entities, likely including counties or other governmental bodies.

Management Oversight: The bill designates the Board of Land and Natural Resources and the Department of Land and Natural Resources as key agencies responsible for overseeing the implementation of the provisions related to these properties.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected:

Local Governments: Counties may receive transferred properties, which could enhance local recreational opportunities and tourism.

Boating Community: Recreational boaters and fishermen would benefit from improved access to launching ramps and harbors.

State Agencies: The Board of Land and Natural Resources and the Department of Land and Natural Resources will have increased responsibilities in managing these properties.

Potential Benefits:

Enhanced public access to waterways.

Improved infrastructure for small boat harbors and launching ramps.

Increased economic activity related to recreational boating.

Legislative Timeline

January 25, 2023: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.

January 30, 2023: Referred to committees WTL/PSM and WAM.

February 9, 2023: Public hearing scheduled.

February 13, 2023: Committees WTL and PSM recommended the bill be passed with amendments.

February 16, 2023: Report adopted; passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to WAM.

December 11, 2023: Carried over to the 2024 Regular Session.

Related Legislation

HB 1318: A companion bill that may address similar issues or provisions related to government property and maritime facilities.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of SB 1477, outlining its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on various stakeholders. As the bill progresses into the 2024 Regular Session, further developments and discussions are anticipated.

Bill