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A HISTORY, PURPOSE AND SUMMARY OF H.F. #1757 <br />Because tourism, specifically trail use is essential to the economic well-being of the State <br />of Minnesota; several community, business, governmental, tourism and trail user <br />organizations are working together to insure the continued use of.state-wide, multi -use <br />trails and trail systems through the introduction of new legislation. <br />This proposed legislation H.F. #1757 brings Minnesota law in line with the vast majority <br />of states in the snowbelt, particularly those who depend on outdoor recreation for <br />significant economic development. <br />In essence, H.F. #1757 would limit liability of private landowners who without charge allow <br />recreational use of their property. Currently, Minnesota law discourages these same <br />landowners from opening -up or continuing recreational use of their land for uses such <br />as snowmobiling, hiking, skiing, horseback riding, bicycling, etc... <br />State and local governments and for -profit enterprises alone can not provide adequate <br />outdoor recreational opportunities for the public. Free use of private land has helped to <br />fill the gap. <br />H.F. #1757 addresses and corrects this issue. It limits liability to conduct intended to <br />cause injury, and it requires that the landowner grant in writing an easement or other <br />property right before any such property right may be inferred from letting others use the <br />land for recreational purposes. H.F. #1757 also provides for costs and attorney's fees to <br />be awarded to the landowner if any frivolous lawsuit is brought against the landowner. <br />H.F. #1757 is authored by Representative Mary Jo McGuire in the House of <br />Representatives. Similar legislation will soon be introduced in the Senate. The following <br />organizations have endorsed H.F. #1757: <br />MN USA (snowmobiiing) <br />Minnesota Park & Trails Council <br />Minnesota Horse Council <br />Minnesota Recreation Coalition <br />Minnesota Mountain Bikers Association <br />Minnesota Civil Justice Coalition <br />Minnesota 4 X 4 Association <br />Minnesota DNR <br />Minnesota Motel Association <br />Minnesota Association of Campground Operators <br />The Hibbing Area Chamber of Commerce <br />The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce <br />The Lake Superior Trail Association <br />