AL SB258

Establishes the Alabama Trails Commission within the Department of Economic and Community Affairs to advance development, interconnection, and use of trails throughout Alabama, including paved and unpaved trails and freshwater and saltwater paddling trails.

Commission composed of 11 members including two trail user community experts appointed by the Governor, one each appointed by the Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the House, and representatives from ADECA, ALDOT, Department of Tourism, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, regional planning councils, local governments, and the Business Council of Alabama.

Commission duties include developing and supporting the Alabama Trails System, facilitating interconnected landscape linkages and recreational corridors, reviewing designation proposals, encouraging public-private partnerships, and organizing a non-profit tax-deductible corporation for trail-related enterprises.

Creates an Alabama Trails Commission Advisory Board composed of 13 members including two Senators, two House members, representatives from universities, state agencies, the U.S. Forest Service, power industry, farmers, Army Corps of Engineers, and Natural Resources Conservation Services.

Commission shall report annually to the Legislature by the second legislative day of each regular session detailing progress, plans, and milestones; act becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.