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California's popular program that lets library users check out free state park passes has been saved
People depart an overlook above the Borrego Badlands in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park on March 23, 2022 near Borrego Springs.
(
Mario Tama
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Getty Images
)
Topline:
California leaders pledged $6.75 million to fund another year of the program that allows people to check out state parks passes at libraries. The program was previously on the chopping block.
Why it matters: Entry fees to state parks and state beaches — $20 per vehicle in the summer high season — are often cited as a major barrier that keeps lower-income Californians from visiting.
Almost cut: In Gov. Gavin Newsom’s initial 2024-25 budget proposal released earlier this year, the program was slated to be cut. But the program was revived in the latest agreement between the governor and state legislative leaders.
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The background: The Los Angeles County library system alone has loaned out almost 10,000 passes since the program began. In Orange County, libraries loaned out nearly 10,000 passes just last year.
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