Yesterday was an interesting day for State Parks. In case you haven't heard, the Legislature's Budget Conference Committee voted to eliminate funding for our state parks.
BUT, the good news is that the committee also voted to enact the State Park Access Pass; which would allow Californians free day-use access to state parks Californians (and generate much-needed State revenues) by instituting a surcharge on vehicle license fees of non-commercial vehicles.
In exchange for paying the fee, residents driving into state parks with a California license plate would receive free day-use entrance into state parks.
This is good news, but it's only one step toward a final budget victory. Since the vote was divided, this proposal still has a high hurdle to overcome, in order to be enacted. Please take action and send a message to your legislator supporting the State Park Access Pass and urging the Legislature to Save Our State Parks! Our friends at the State Park Foundation set up this action alert.
Also, this weekend hit one of the many International Surfing Day Beach Cleanups sponsored by Surfrider ... and then demonstrate your support for our State Parks by visiting your favorite state park--here is a list of informal gathering areas and what else you an do to support State Parks.
Speaking of Parks...Underwater Parks... The Surfirder Foundation is working the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) and we just launched a new blog so that you can stay updated, but sure to check out the FAQ sheet. If you are interested in MLPA contact Stefanie: Ssekich@surfrider.org
