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Committee approves higher spending limit for state parks emergency repairs, with reporting and sunset requirements
Summary
The Senate Transportation Committee on June 4 reported House Bill 297, which raises the contract spending threshold for the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism's state parks public‑works projects from $250,000 to $1 million, with an annual reporting requirement and a four‑year sunset in the substitute language.
The committee reported House Bill 297 on June 4, a measure that would increase the statutory contract limit for public‑works projects at the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism (state parks) from $250,000 to $1,000,000 for certain projects.
Representative Thompson, the sponsor, told the committee the change aims to speed repairs and reduce long delays in restoring park facilities after storms. Brannan Burrows of State Parks said the department would still conduct a formal public‑bid process and that the substitute includes safeguards: an annual report to the House and Senate oversight committees and an automatic sunset provision after four years.
Secretary Roger Hauser of the Division of Administration provided information at the request of the committee. After discussion, Vice Chair Carter moved to report House Bill 297 favorably; the motion carried without objection.
Ending: The bill advances with reporting and a four‑year sunset; supporters said it will allow faster repairs after storm damage while retaining oversight and a public‑bid requirement.
