Bill > HB4695

This bill amends the Recreational Authorities Act by updating and expanding definitions related to local government recreational authorities. The bill modifies the act's title to include "natural resources" and adds several new definitions, including an expanded definition of "park" and a new definition for "public forest and natural resources area" that encompasses a broader range of uses such as recreational activities, environmental conservation, forestry management, and cultural resource preservation. The bill clarifies terminology around authorities, municipalities, and districts, and introduces more comprehensive descriptions of potential land uses, including specific activities like foraging, fruit picking, and various types of trail usage. Notable additions include recognizing off-road vehicle (ORV) trails and expanding the scope of what can be considered a recreational or natural resources area. The bill also adjusts existing definitions like "public historic farm" and "swimming pool" to provide more detailed descriptions. These changes appear designed to give local government recreational authorities more flexibility in managing and developing public lands and recreational spaces, with a focus on broader, more inclusive interpretations of public land use.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4695