Bill > HR4924

This bill, called the "Rails to Trails Landowner Rights Act," aims to modify the process for converting abandoned railway rights-of-way into recreational trails by adding significant protections and requirements for landowners. The bill mandates that any state, political subdivision, or qualified private organization seeking to use an abandoned railway corridor for recreational purposes must provide detailed notice to property owners and local governments, obtain signed approval from affected landowners within 30 days of intervening in an abandonment proceeding, and disclose the legal status of the right-of-way. Additionally, the bill requires trail sponsors to compensate property owners at fair market value for any additional costs, including lost development opportunities, and to maintain the right-of-way in perpetuity or until rail service resumes. The Surface Transportation Board must now conduct a comprehensive 90-day public comment period and a detailed cost-benefit analysis considering factors like safety, health, security, privacy, and economic impact before approving such conversions. The bill also establishes an 11-member advisory committee appointed by the Secretary of the Interior to recommend maintenance requirements, with representation from landowners, rail carriers, and trail sponsors, and mandates periodic reviews of existing rails-to-trails corridors to assess their ongoing management and potential easement adjustments.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4924/all-info