COMMISSION

Legislation
In 1971, through enactment of the Chappie-Z’berg Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Law (the
Law), the Legislature addressed the growing use of motorized vehicles off-highway by
adopting requirements for the registration and operation of these vehicles. In addition, the
Law provided funding for administration of the OHMVR Program along with facilities for
OHV recreation (California Vehicle Code (CVC) § 38000 et seq.).
The Law was founded on the principle that “effectively managed areas and adequate
facilities for the use of OHVs and conservation and enforcement are essential for
ecologically balanced recreation.” The Law required maintenance and oversight to allow for
sustainable OHV use consistent with good environmental stewardship.
In 1982, these principles were expanded upon through the enactment of the Off-Highway
Motor Vehicle Recreation Act, which has been amended numerous times and is now
referred to as the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Act of 2003 (OHMVR Act)
(PRC § 5090.01 et seq.).
The legislative intent, as articulated in the OHMVR Act, is that existing OHV areas be
expanded, added to and managed to sustain areas for long-term motor vehicle recreation
and that the OHMVR Program support motorized off- highway access to non-motorized
recreational opportunities. The OHMVR Act requires the OHMVR Program be given equal
priority with other programs administered in the State Park System.
Through the OHMVR Act, the Legislature created a separate division within California State
Parks, the OHMVR Division, which was given the exclusive authority for administering
the OHMVR Program. The OHMVR Division is charged with all aspects of managing the
OHMVR Program.
In 2007, Senate Bill (SB) 742 was introduced by Senator Steinberg and co-authored by
Assembly Member Wolk. Enacted in 2008, SB 742 made a number of significant changes
that enhanced the ability of the OHMVR Division to meet its goals. In addition to other
changes, SB 742 modified the makeup and responsibilities of the Commission, increased
funding to the OHV Trust Fund, and adjusted the allocation of grant funds. It also extended
the OHMVR Program sunset to January 1, 2018, the longest sunset in the history of the
OHMVR Program. The bill received strong bipartisan support from the Assembly and the
Senate as it passed through the Legislature by a vote of 114-5.
2017 Program Report 3