Pennsylvania State Snowmobile Association
Legislative Update - August 2004

Budget Leaders Include Trail Funding From Fuels Taxes

There are sometimes many ways to skin a cat.   

After years of pursuing fuel tax funding to support motorized recreational trail programs PSSA is one step closer.  As House Bill 2579 passed the House it included $1million in funding from the motor license fund i.e. gas taxes, for DCNR to use in support of motorized recreational trails.  This amendment was again offered by Representative Rod Wilt (R) Mercer County and passed overwhelmingly.  Yes, Representative Vitali voted no.  

As has been the case in recent years the Senate stripped out all the amendments considered and added by the House therefore setting the stage for a conference committee report on the budget.  As the bill emerged from the Conference Committee it once again contained $1 million in funding for motorized recreational vehicle trail support.  However, when Penndot got wind of the appropriation from the motor license fund to DCNR it raised the old question constitutionality.   

Currently, the funds are in dispute and our friends in the General Assembly, Speaker John Perzel and Senator Brightbill are at bat for us.  It is difficult to predict how this chapter will turn out, but we are not out of the game yet. 

When the legislature returns in the Fall there are several bills to be considered that amend the Vehicle Code.  This presents PSSA with the forum to advance the authorizing legislation that we have pursued in the past.  And believe it or not, there is even talk of a gas tax increase.  If a gas tax increase is considered it presents PSSA with the best opportunity to once and for all resolve this issue. 

Please continue to urge your Legislators to support PSSA on this issue.