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Senate adopts law to split trail stewardship grants 40/40/20, but debate lingers over allocation and studies
Summary
Senate Bill 310 places a 40%/40%/20% statutory split between motorized groups, non‑motorized groups and joint programs for trail stewardship grant funds derived from motorized license plate fees. Sponsors said the split codifies long‑standing practice; opponents warned about economic‑impact study requirements and allocation dynamics.
Lawmakers approved a statute establishing how the trails and recreational facilities stewardship grant program will split funds derived from the motorized license‑plate opt‑out fee.
Senate Bill 310, sponsored by Senator Usher, directs a statutory split of 40% of available stewardship funds to motorized groups, 40% to non‑motorized groups and 20% to projects that benefit both (for example, search‑and‑rescue support). Usher said the bill does not raise new revenue and instead codifies how the existing motorized $9 park‑and‑recreation opt‑out fee is apportioned.
Opponents, including Minority Leader Flowers, argued the bill did not fully reflect the Montana Trails Coalition’s consensus and questioned requirements for economic impact studies and planning studies, which could divert funds from on‑the‑ground trail work. Proponents replied that if one group does not use its allocation, unused funds can flow to the other group and that motorized projects sometimes require additional planning and design work.
The Senate passed the bill on second reading, 34 yeas to 16 nays. Supporters said the statutory split clarifies funding expectations and helps both motorized and non‑motorized stakeholders plan projects. Dissenters asked leaders to ensure allocation does not unintentionally reduce trail construction and maintenance for underfunded users.
The measure will proceed to further legislative steps.
