Bill > H0147

This bill establishes the Recreational Trails Compensation Study Committee, a diverse group of nine members representing various stakeholders including government agencies, land conservation organizations, private landowners, and recreation experts. The committee's primary purpose is to comprehensively examine the current landscape of public recreational trails on private property, with a specific focus on understanding the potential need for compensating landowners who allow public trail access. The committee will investigate the costs and liabilities borne by private property owners, assess the economic value of recreational trails to Vermont's state and local economies, and research compensation models used in other jurisdictions. By December 15, 2026, the committee is required to submit a detailed report to the General Assembly recommending whether property owners should receive compensation for trail access and, if so, proposing potential compensation sources. The bill allocates $250,000 from the General Fund to support the committee's work, including hiring consultants to evaluate the economic impact of outdoor recreation. The committee will be administratively supported by the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation, with meetings beginning by September 15, 2025, and the committee dissolving on March 1, 2027. Members will receive per diem compensation for up to six meetings, and the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.147