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From:
gov_office@MICHIGAN.GOV [mailto:gov_office@MICHIGAN.GOV] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 27, 2005 Governor Granholm Signs Legislation to
Expand Trail Access for Snowmobiles “This legislation will not only expand access to
trails for snowmobile operators, but will also benefit Currently, snowmobiles are allowed to operate in the
right-of-way on public highways that are not limited access if it has been
designated a snowmobile trail by the DNR and approved by MDOT. Senate
Bill 161 (Public Act 307), signed by Granholm, expands this process to limited
access highways. Additionally, the bill establishes a process by which
the DNR and MDOT can prohibit snowmobile use on any highway, but only if a
demonstrable threat to public safety exists. In December, 2004, Granholm vetoed similar
legislation. At the time, she expressed her support for expanding
recreational opportunities for snowmobile enthusiasts, but asked the
legislature to provide a comprehensive approach to the issue that balanced the
interests of snowmobiles, landowners and motor vehicles in a way that ensured
the safety of all parties. “I am pleased that all of the interested parties were
able to work together to forge a compromise that helps local economies, expands
recreational opportunities and protects public safety,” said Granholm. Senate Bill 161 was sponsored by Senator Jason Allen ( # # # |