0415: FLOOR ANALYSIS (4-30-02) - MI HERITAGE WATER TRAIL PROGRAM

MI HERITAGE WATER TRAIL PROGRAM - S.B. 415 (S-4): FLOOR ANALYSIS

Senate Bill 415 (Substitute S-4 as reported)

Committee: Hunting, Fishing and Forestry

CONTENT

The bill would amend Part 721 (Michigan Trailways) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to require the Great Lakes Center for Maritime Studies at Western Michigan University, in conjunction with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Department of History, Arts, and Libraries, and the Michigan 4-H Youth Conservation Council, to develop a Statewide recognition program to be known as the "Michigan Heritage Water Trail Program".

The program would have to be designed to do all of the following:

-- Establish a method for designating significant water corridors in the State as Michigan heritage water trails.

-- Provide recognition for the historical, cultural, and natural resource significance of Michigan heritage water trails.

-- Establish methods for local governmental units to participate in programs that complemented the designation of Michigan heritage water trails.

-- Assure that private property rights along Michigan heritage water trails were not disturbed or disrupted.

Within one year after the bill's effective date, the Center for Maritime Studies at Western Michigan University, in conjunction with the DNR, the Department of History, Arts, and Libraries, and the Michigan 4-H Youth Conservation Council would have to submit a copy of the plan for the program to the standing committees of the Legislature with jurisdiction primarily pertaining to natural resources and the environment.

Proposed MCL 324.72113 - Legislative Analyst: Nobuko Nagata

FISCAL IMPACT

The bill would have an indeterminate impact on the expenditures of Western Michigan University, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Department of History, Arts, and Libraries. There is no FY 2001-02 or FY 2002-03 appropriation, or recommended appropriation, for developing the plan that would be required by the bill.

Date Completed: 4-30-02 - Fiscal Analyst: Pam GrahamFloor\sb415 - Bill Analysis @ http://www.senate.state.mi.us/sfa

This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.