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Senate advances statewide trails bill after hours of testimony; $2 million fiscal note draws scrutiny
Summary
Senate Bill 72 to create a state-sponsored recreational trail system drew broad public support from cycling and trails groups and a $2 million fiscal note that senators questioned. The bill passed to third reading with a recorded 25–1 vote and was placed on the third-reading table.
Senate Bill 72, authorizing development of bicycle paths and a statewide recreational trails program, received extended floor time as senators resolved into a Committee of the Whole to hear public testimony.
Sponsor Senator McAllister framed the bill as a response to strong, statewide interest in safe cycling and multi‑use trails, citing Park City experience and tourism benefits. Representatives of Bicycle Utah, the United States Cycling Federation and the Salt Lake Regional Trails Council testified in favor: they described growing participation in cycling, potential tourism gains and the need for coordinated master planning across state, federal and local lands.
Questions from senators centered on the bill’s fiscal note. The bill carried a $2,000,000 one‑time appropriation in the fiscal note and raised questions from multiple senators about whether the full sum was immediately necessary, how ongoing costs would be borne, and whether local governments or user fees could shoulder part of the expense. Sponsor McAllister said the committee could move the bill to third reading and later return to appropriations to refine funding. He also said alternatives such as a targeted tax on new bicycle sales or local contributions could supplement the amount.
The Senate carried a roll call to read SB 72 for the third time; the transcript records a 25‑aye, 1‑nay result with three senators absent. The bill was then placed on the third‑reading table for further consideration, and supporters in the gallery were acknowledged by the sponsor.
Why it matters: The bill creates a framework for statewide coordination of trails and bicycle infrastructure, with implications for outdoor recreation, tourism, land management and local maintenance responsibilities. The $2 million fiscal note and the question of ongoing funding were the main fiscal-policy issues raised on the floor.
What happens next: SB 72 was placed on the third-reading table in this session; further committee work and appropriations decisions will determine how much of the initial fiscal note is funded and how ongoing maintenance and reimbursement are allocated.
