More Help Needed for the RTP Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber, We know that for BRC members it's frustrating to constantly have to fight for what is fair and right. Since its inception in the early 90s, the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) has served as a model of success as a funding program for trails nation-wide. The RTP derives its funding from that portion of gas taxes that are used "off-highway" by the motorized recreation community. The "user-pay, user-benefit" RTP model has provided critical funding for both motorized and non-motorized trails for over two dec
More Help Needed for the RTP
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
We know that for BRC members it's frustrating to constantly have to fight for what is fair and right.
Since its inception in the early 90s, the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) has served as a model of success as a funding program for trails nation-wide. The RTP derives its funding from that portion of gas taxes that are used "off-highway" by the motorized recreation community. The "user-pay, user-benefit" RTP model has provided critical funding for both motorized and non-motorized trails for over two decades.
It's simple and it's fair. But in our political system the RTP program must be re-authorized every time there is a major new transportation funding bill, so we are stuck in this nearly annual fight.
The most recent transportation budget battle nearly resulted in the elimination of the RTP program. But thanks to the commitment of key U.S. Senators, including Senators Klobuchar (MN), Risch (ID), Shaheen (NH) and Burr (NC) along with long-standing champions in the House of Representatives including Representatives Petri (WI), Michaud (ME) and Rahall (WV), the RTP program was saved.
Everyone at BRC remains consistently gratified because when we ask you to contact your legislators in support of the RTP program, you respond... en masse! (Perhaps this is the reason the RTP programs enjoys wide support, even among budget hawks.)
RTP needs your help once again.
The language of this latest reauthorization of the RTP does include a new provision that allows state governors to "opt out" of the program if they notify the US Secretary of Transportation of their decision at least 30 days before the funds are apportioned. This year that deadline is September 1, which leaves some work still necessary to secure each state's participation and a short time to get it done.
We must do all that we can before September 1st to ensure that these state Governors understand the importance of this program and how many of their constituents care passionately about trails and the RTP.
Thankfully, ARRA (Americans for Responsible Recreational Access) has a great way to contact your governor in support of RTP. ARRA's alert is here.
We need continuing grassroots involvement to send a strong message to every remaining Governor, and our deadline is September 1, 2012. So please do it today!
As always, please call or email if you have any questions or comments.
Ric Foster
Public Lands Department Manager
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107
PS: If you are a member of a local or state based OHV/snowmobile club, you have the ability to mobilize powerful grassroots power. BRC encourages your club to contact their Governor directly.
Contact information for every Governor can be found on the Website of the National Governors Association:
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!
