OH HB641

Requires the Department of Natural Resources to conduct two studies: one on expanding all-purpose vehicle and side-by-side riding opportunities at Shawnee State Park, East Fork State Park, and Salt Fork State Park, and another on the feasibility of reintroducing elk into Ohio's state forests and wildlife areas

Appropriates $3,000,000 from the General Revenue Fund in fiscal year 2026, with $2,000,000 designated for the trail expansion study and $1,000,000 for the elk reintroduction study

Trail study must include geographic/environmental assessments, economic impact analysis, safety and enforcement protocols, public use conflict management, and infrastructure cost estimates using potential federal funding sources like the Recreational Trails Program

Elk study must assess habitat suitability, ecological impacts, disease risks (chronic wasting disease, bovine tuberculosis), source population logistics, management strategies including potential limited hunting seasons, and fiscal projections

Department of Natural Resources must hold at least one public meeting per study, conduct formal public comment periods, and submit a comprehensive report to the General Assembly and Governor by December 30, 2028