Biking on Long-Distance Trails Act

This bill, known as the "Biking on Long-Distance Trails Act," requires the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to develop long-distance bike trails on Federal land. The purpose of this act is to create continuous routes for biking that are at least 80 miles long and primarily consist of dirt or natural surface trails.

In more detail, here are the key points of the bill:

Short Title: The official name of this act is the "Biking on Long-Distance Trails Act."
Definitions: The bill defines several terms used throughout the act, including "Federal recreational lands," which refers to specific types of Federal land designated for recreational purposes, and "long-distance bike trail," which is a continuous route of at least 80 miles in length primarily made up of dirt or natural surface trails.
Secretary Concerned: This term refers to the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture, depending on which Federal recreational lands are under consideration.
Long-Distance Bike Trails on Federal Recreational Lands: Within 18 months after the enactment of this act, the Secretaries must identify at least 10 existing long-distance bike trails and at least 10 areas where new trails can be developed to meet the criteria of a long-distance bike trail.
Public Comment: The Secretaries must establish a process for allowing the public to provide comments on the identification of trails and areas for long-distance bike trails. They should consider these comments when making decisions and strive for geographic equity in trail development and completion.
Maps, Signage, and Promotional Materials: The Secretary concerned has the authority to publish maps, install signage, and issue promotional materials for the identified long-distance bike trails. They can also work with stakeholders to utilize non-Federal resources for trail stewardship and development.
Report: Within 2 years after the enactment of this act, the Secretaries, in collaboration with interested organizations, must prepare and publish a report listing the identified trails and summarizing public comments received.
Avoidance of Conflict with Other Uses: The Secretary concerned must ensure that long-distance bike trails or areas designated as such do not conflict with existing uses of trails or roads, multiple-use areas, purposes established under the National Trails System Act, or areas managed under the Wilderness Act. The trails must also comply with the land use and management plans of the Federal recreational lands they pass through.

This bill was passed by the House of Representatives on July 19, 2022.

Land Use And Conservation