AUGUSTA — Maine snowmobilers could see higher registration fees, under a measure given initial approval by the state House.

The Democratic-controlled House approved the measure on a 97 to 40 vote on Monday.

The bill would increase the snowmobile registration fee from $40 to $45. The extra $5 would go toward the state’s Snowmobile Trail Fund.

Supporters say the increase is necessary to maintain the state’s trail system. Republicans criticized Democrats for pushing another fee hike.

The bill would also increase the three-day registration fees for non-Maine residents from $43 to $50. Nonresidents who snowmobile the entire season would have to pay $110, up from the current rate of $88.

The bill is backed by Democratic Rep. Stephen Stanley of Medway. The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate.