Protect Park Access | Cal Parks

In 2021, California State Parks received funding to create pilot programs providing free access to state parks, including the California State Library Parks Pass. This program provides free day-use entry to California state parks to anyone with a library card in California. It has proven integral in creating a more accessible park system as the cost of entry with fees can financially burden residents, deterring people from visiting state parks.   

Unfortunately, the Governor did not include additional funding for the California State Library Parks Pass in his 2024-2025 budget proposal. Because of this, the pass's current funding will expire at the end of this fiscal year, and libraries will not receive new passes for checkout after December 31, 2024. It is integral to voice your support NOW using the social toolkit below. Together, let's show Governor Newsom and Legislative leaders that we support park access for all! 

 

SHARE THE PETITION LINK

https://act.calparks.org/a/parkpassprograms 

 

USE THE HASHTAGS

#CalParksAdvocacy 

#CalParksAccess 

#OutdoorsForAll 

#CALibraryParkPass 

 

TAG CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS FOUNDATION 

Tag us in your posts so we can share them with our followers 

 

TAG ELECTED OFFICIALS

Help amplify your support for park access by tagging Governor Newsom and your State Legislators.  

Office of the California Governor 

Gavin Newsom  

Let your State Legislator know directly by tagging them in your post. You can find your Legistlator’s information here

For more tips on how to reach your State Legislator, please check out ours instructional video here

 

WHAT SHOULD I POST TO SOCIAL MEDIA

You might want to share:  

  • Stories and photos from a park visit using the California State Library Parks Pass. 

  • What Outdoors for All/California for All means to you. 

  • The benefits of being in a California state park. 

  • A retweet, repost, or response to California State Parks Foundation’s social media. 

 

SAMPLE POSTS

  • Join me in fighting for park access! Sign the petition urging Governor Newsom and Legislative leaders to restore state funding for the California State Library Parks Pass! [https://act.calparks.org/a/parkpassprograms
     

  • Did you know the California State Library Parks Pass is one of the library's most checked-out items? This vital park pass gives library card holders free vehicle day-use entry to state parks, many of whom may not have been able to visit a park without it. Please sign the petition to keep our parks accessible for everyone. [https://act.calparks.org/a/parkpassprograms]  
     

  • The future of the California State Library Parks Pass is at stake! If new funding is not identified by June 30, 2024, libraries will not receive new passes for the following year. Please protect this essential park pass program from being defunded. [https://act.calparks.org/a/parkpassprograms]  
     

  • My recent trip with the California State Library Parks Pass was unforgettable! The joy and benefits of nature should be a right, not a privilege. Join me in supporting this successful program by signing the petition. Let's continue to make park access a reality for everyone. [https://act.calparks.org/a/parkpassprograms]  
     

  • Last year, California State Parks Foundation ran a study on the success of the California State Library Parks Pass Program. We learned that 63% of participants identified cost as a significant barrier to enjoying our state parks. This issue was especially prevalent among those earning $60,000 or less, which made up nearly 70% of respondents. The success of the California State Library Parks Pass in alleviating financial challenges for park visitors is undeniable. Please show Governor Newsom and our legislators that park access should be a right for all. Sign the petition now. [https://act.calparks.org/a/parkpassprograms
     

  • Outdoors for All isn't just a phrase; it's a promise. The California State Library Parks Pass is our key to unlocking this promise, offering every Californian free access to state parks. But this incredible program needs your voice to continue. Sign the petition and join the movement towards a future where everyone can experience the wonders of our state parks. [https://act.calparks.org/a/parkpassprograms]  
     


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