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Program Giving Library Card Holders Free Access To State Parks Could End In Budget Cuts
The entrance of the California Citrus State Historic Park in Riverside.
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Courtesy Vincent Moses
)
Topline:
A California program that gives library card holders free access to state parks could soon be eliminated as the state faces a revised budget that includes $33 million in cuts.
Why it matters: The California State Library Parks Pass provided access to more than 200 state parks for free. More than 33,000 passes were used since the program's launch. Rachel Norton, executive director of the California State Parks Foundation, said the program was critical to creating a healthier and more equitable California.
“We are extremely concerned about the Governor’s proposal to end this highly effective and popular program providing free access to California state parks,” said Norton. “The California State Library Parks Pass is critical to our state’s goal of a healthier, more equitable California for All.”
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What else: Fourth graders and their families still have access to 54 state parks for the year through the California State Park Adventure Pass. Families who receive CalWORKS, supplemental security income, and income-eligible Californians over 62 years old can also maintain free access to state parks.
What's next: The California State Parks Foundation is urging state legislators to reinstate $3 million — about 50% of the current funding — for the California State Library Parks Pass program.
Go deeper: The Ability To Check Out A Free State Park Pass At Your Local Library Could Soon End
Corrected May 16, 2024 at 3:14 PM PDT
A revision has been issued for incorrectly stating that the California State Library Parks Pass program has ended. It has not but faces elimination in the coming fiscal year. LAist regrets the error.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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