{"AmendmentNumber":"571","ParentBillNumber":"S3064","Bill":null,"Sponsor":{"Id":"ALS1","Name":"Aaron L. Saunders","Type":1,"Details":"https://malegislature.gov/api/GeneralCourts/194/LegislativeMembers/ALS1","ResponseDate":"2026-06-16T16:56:19.95"},"Category":null,"Action":"Consolidated","RollCall":[],"Title":"Recreational Access Expansion Study","Branch":"House","RedraftNumber":null,"IsFurther":false,"GeneralCourtNumber":194,"Text":"Mr. Saunders of Belchertown moves to amend the bill by adding the following section: \r\n\r\nSECTION XX. The department of conservation and recreation, in consultation with the division of fisheries and wildlife, shall conduct a study and prepare a report examining opportunities to expand public access to state-owned waterways through the establishment of watercraft rental programs at state-owned waterway access areas and other appropriate state-owned recreational properties.\r\n\r\nThe study shall evaluate the feasibility, costs, benefits and operational considerations associated with providing watercraft rentals for recreational purposes including, but not limited to, fishing, birdwatching, wildlife observation, paddling and other forms of passive outdoor recreation. The study shall examine rental opportunities for watercraft including, but not limited to, rowboats, motorboats, canoes and kayaks.\r\n\r\nThe study shall further evaluate alternative operational models, including: (i) direct ownership and operation by the commonwealth; (ii) operation through concession agreements, leases or other contracts with private entities; and (iii) public-private partnership models. The study shall identify potential locations suitable for such programs, assess anticipated demand, evaluate accessibility considerations, estimate startup and operating costs, identify potential revenue sources, and recommend any statutory, regulatory or budgetary changes necessary to implement such programs.\r\n\r\nNot later than December 31, 2027, the department shall submit the report and any recommendations to the clerks of the house of representatives and senate and to the house and senate chairs of the joint committee on Environment and Natural Resources.\r\n"}