Ski Hill Resources for Economic Development Act

Key Points

• This bill, introduced by Senator Barrasso and a bipartisan group, would allow the Forest Service to keep the money it collects from ski resorts that operate on federal land. Currently, much of that money goes to the general government fund, but this change would keep it within the National Forest System to benefit local recreation.
• About 80% of the money collected at a specific ski mountain would stay at that exact forest. This ensures that the communities and forests that host these resorts see the direct benefits of the fees paid by skiers and snowboarders through better maintenance and services.
• The money would be used for local projects like fixing trails and roads, expanding parking lots, and improving visitor signs. It also covers important safety needs like avalanche education, search and rescue operations, and planning for wildfires near recreation sites.
• While the money can be used to help prevent fires, it cannot be used for the actual cost of fighting wildfires or for the government to buy new land. The goal is to focus the funds on improving the experience and safety of people visiting the forests for recreation.
• If passed, these new rules would start 60 days after the bill is signed into law. The remaining 20% of the fees not kept locally would be shared with other National Forest locations to help with their recreation and safety needs.

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