This bill proposes the creation of a "Responsible Recreation" special license plate in West Virginia, which will be issued by the Division of Motor Vehicles. The plate will be available to owners of Class A motor vehicles and will feature a design approved by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles in consultation with the Division of Natural Resources. An initial issuance fee of $50 and an annual renewal fee of $25 will be charged, with the proceeds directed to a newly established Responsible Recreation Fund. This fund will be administered by the Division of Natural Resources and will be used exclusively for responsible off-highway vehicle education, signage, and stewardship programs.
The bill outlines specific permitted uses for the funds, including education on the safe operation of off-highway vehicles, development of safety signage, and volunteer stewardship programs. It also prohibits the use of funds for large-scale construction or unrelated marketing efforts. Additionally, the Division of Natural Resources is authorized to partner with qualified nonprofit organizations to assist in program implementation and management. The bill mandates annual reporting on fund revenues and expenditures, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of the funds.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 17A-10-16a