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CA’s library park pass is staying. Budget enshrines the popular program
California’s latest budget once again includes funding for the state library park pass program.
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Topline:
California’s latest budget once again includes funding for the state library park pass program, which allows residents to check out free vehicle day-use park passes from their local libraries.
What we know: Each year, lawmakers have had to make the case for including the pass program in the state’s budget. This year, however, the budget includes an ongoing appropriation for the program, meaning it will be funded continuously unless lawmakers take action to change it.
Why it matters: The free passes can be used at more than 200 participating state parks. Since the program began in 2021, 33,000 passes have been distributed to branch libraries statewide, according to the California State Parks Foundation.
Officials say: Rachel Norton, executive director of the California State Parks Foundation, said in a statement that the "investment will help connect generations of Californians with the outdoors."
Dig deeper … How to get free entry to California state parks with your library card
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