H.R. 6994: Restoring Our Unopened Trails for Enjoyment and Safety Act
Date Introduced: December 21, 2024
Sponsors:
- Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO)
- Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA)
- Representative Deb Haaland (D-NM)
- Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM)
Summary:
The Restoring Our Unopened Trails for Enjoyment and Safety (ROUTES) Act is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to open up closed or obstructed trails on public lands for the benefit of outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The bill specifically targets federal lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Forest Service, and the National Park Service.
Key Provisions:
- Requires federal land management agencies to identify and inventory all closed or obstructed trails within their jurisdiction.
- Establishes a framework for prioritizing and reopening trails based on factors such as:
- User demand
- Connectivity to other trails
- Environmental impact
- Provides funding for trail maintenance, including:
- Clearing obstructions
- Repairing bridges and culverts
- Installing signage
Benefits:
- Increased Access to Recreation: The bill would open up miles of trails that are currently inaccessible to the public, providing more opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities.
- Improved Safety: Obstructed trails can pose safety hazards to hikers and bikers. By reopening and maintaining these trails, the bill would reduce the risk of injuries and accidents.
- Economic Benefits: Increased recreational opportunities can boost local economies by attracting visitors and supporting tourism.
- Conservation: By encouraging responsible use of trails, the bill would help protect the environment and wildlife habitats.
Controversy:
The bill has faced some opposition from certain groups, including:
- Conservationists: Some environmental advocates argue that opening up new trails could lead to increased foot traffic and damage to sensitive ecosystems.
- Landowners: Private landowners adjacent to federal lands may be concerned about increased trespassing and property damage.
Status:
As of its introduction on December 21, 2024, H.R. 6994 has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. The bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process and will require approval from both the House and Senate before it can become law.
H.R. 6994 (RH) – Restoring Our Unopened Trails for Enjoyment and Safety Act
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