Update on RTP Funding
Greetings BRC Action Alert Subscribers,
Greg Mumm, BRC's Executive Director, spends a lot of time tracking various land use initiatives and legislation in Washington, DC. Among the many issues he is involved in is the very important re-authorization of the Recreation Trails Program (RTP). Greg sent us an update that we wanted to pass along.
First off, Greg wanted us to make sure all our members know what a big impact your calls and emails are making. Your response to our previous action alerts (2.13.2012 and 2.15.2012) played a huge roll in educating influential lawmakers on the importance of maintaining RTP as a "user pay - user benefit" program.
Greg reported that a modified version of Minnesota Senator Klobuchar's amendment was included in the Senate transportation bill (MAP-21) that moved forward in the Senate yesterday. This key amendment was co-sponsored by Senators Burr, Shaheen, Risch, Bennet, Sanders, Stabenow and Udall. The amendment had broad bipartisan support which was key to its success.
The Klobuchar amendment provided language to retain the RTP program at its current level of funding. However, it was modified slightly to include a provision for Governors to opt out of using the funds for RTP. Greg cautioned that because the House is still working on its transportation legislation, the legislative language is not final so it isn't clear at this time how that will actually work in each state.
Depending on how the House and Senate bills are combined in conference, we may need to ask you to contact your legislators at the state level to ensure the Governors don't opt out.
Greg noted that considering the pressure to cut the budget, it is remarkable that RTP funding wasn't cut dramatically. Again, your calls and emails made the difference.
Please keep an eye on your email inbox for updates and future action alerts regarding this important issue.
Thanks,
Ric Foster
Public Lands Department Manager
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107
The BlueRibbon Coalition is a national recreation group that champions responsible recreation, and encourages individual environmental stewardship. With members in all 50 states, BRC is focused on building enthusiast involvement with organizational efforts through membership, outreach, education, and collaboration among recreationists. 1-800-BlueRib - www.sharetrails.org
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As a non-profit, grassroots organization funded primarily by membership dues and donations, we greatly appreciate your support. Visit http://www.sharetrails.org/make-a-difference-now to help fund our efforts to protect your trails!
