(ED—The following comes from the American Council of Snowmobile Associations Executive Director Christine Jourdain)
As you may recall, RTP is in the "Transportation Alternatives Program" portion of the Highway Funding Legislation.
Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) filed an amendment (S.A. 2280) to the Senate transportation bill, the DRIVE Act. His amendment would ELIMINATE the Transportation Alternatives Program—and RTP.
The Senate began consideration on the highway bill. At this point, it appears yesterday was the earliest there will be any Amendments considered.
I have been waiting for clarity on the direction this legislation may be headed. Rather than wait, it is time for you—and your clubs and members—to contact Senator Lee's office.
Senator Lee: 202-224-5444
Let them know that you are very concerned with the impact his Amendment will have. It will eliminate RTP—a program that every snowmobiler and OHV user pays into every time you fill your sled/OHV. It will have serious consequences to snowmobiling and other OHV programs, not only in Utah but across the country.
The Senate seems to be on track to pass a multiple year Highway Funding Bill. Once they pass the legislation, it will be sent to the House.
Both the Senate and House are on a fast track—they are trying to get out of town for their August recess.
This is also a good time to call your two Senators with the same message.
I am confident that we can get the attention of Senator Lee with your help ... but it is going to take action from the grassroots. Make your phone calls.
