Enlarging Authority to Enter Into Development Contracts for State Parks and Forests

This bill would enlarge the authority of the Director of DNR to enter third-party contracts for the development of recreation facilities at any state park or forest to a total of 40 years. The Director's present authority is for contracts totaling 20 years and is limited to six state parks. The new authority is limited to facilities that are in accordance with the purposes and authority granted to the DNR's Section of Parks and Recreation. A public hearing must be conducted before a contract is issued. No specific type of facility is prohibited. Watoga State Park is exempted.

ISSUES: Development, Land & Wildlife

CWV Position: Opposes

Status: Original bill introduced 1/26/22, referred to Agriculture and Natural Resources committee, then Government Organization; sent to Government Organization Committee 2/17/22; substitute bill originated by Government Organization Committee 2/21/22; substitute bill passed out of committee 2/23/22; passed Senate with amendment 3/12/22; passed House in amended form 3/12/22; sent to Governor 3/17/22