By: Zwiener H.B. No. 4499
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to a study of the feasibility of establishing a regional
  connected trails program.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
         SECTION 1.  (a) The Parks and Wildlife Department shall
  conduct a study and issue a report regarding the feasibility of
  establishing regional connected trails system throughout the state
  that provides recreational opportunities for Texans and highlights
  the state's scenery, wildlife, and history.
         (b)  In conducting the study, the department shall consult
  with: Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Historical
  Commission, federal land management agencies, and counties and
  municipalities who maintain parks with relevant trails.
         (c)  The report required by Subsection (a) of this section
  must include:
               (1)  potential regional connected trail projects;
               (2)  strategies for integrating existing hiking trails
  into the projects;
               (3)  the capacity of the department to oversee regional
  connected trails;
               (4)  allocation of state resources to fund this type of
  program;
               (5)  Proposals to increase, connect, and protect
  outdoor recreational trails across the state.
         (d)  This section does not apply to trails used for motorized
  vehicles.
         (d)  Not later than December 1, 2022, the department shall
  report to the governor and the legislature the findings of the study
  and any recommendations developed by the department under this
  section.
         (e)  This section expires September 1, 2023.
         SECTION 2.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2021.