The bill revises the existing Trails and Recreational Facilities Grant Program by establishing a new Trail Stewardship Grant Program. It amends Section 23-2-109 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to specify the types of projects eligible for funding, which now include not only new trail construction and maintenance but also trail-related projects, economic impact studies, feasibility studies, safety and ethics education, trail data collection, and equipment purchases. The bill also introduces a new funding allocation structure, designating 40% of available funds for motorized projects, 40% for nonmotorized projects, and 20% for projects serving both types of use. Additionally, it allows for advance payments of grant funding, enabling recipients to receive up to 50% of the grant at the time of award.

The bill also includes provisions for the reallocation of unused funds and sets a three-year limit for the expenditure of awarded funds, after which any unspent funds must revert to the department. The department is tasked with considering recommendations from the state trails advisory committee when making grant decisions and may adopt rules to implement the new provisions. The effective date for the changes outlined in the bill is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 23-2-109