Assembly Bill 978 establishes a requirement for individuals to obtain a hiking permit from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) before traveling by foot on groomed hiking trails on state-owned land. The bill mandates that hikers carry proof of their permit at all times and present it to DNR officials or law enforcement upon request. Certain exceptions are included, such as when hiking is incidental to another authorized activity, when a state trail pass is held, or when participating in an organized event. The bill also clarifies that a hiking permit does not permit access to areas where hiking is prohibited.

The DNR is tasked with issuing these permits, which will be valid for the calendar year and require a fee of $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 12 and older, and no fee for children under 12. Additionally, a 75-cent issuing fee will be applied for permits issued to individuals aged 12 and older, with agents authorized by the DNR allowed to retain a portion of this fee. The bill also includes provisions for the DNR to create a statewide automated system for permit issuance and outlines the necessary rules and regulations for this process.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.370(9)(hv), 20.370, 23.47(2), 23.47