Bill to Protect State Parks Passes Assembly with Bipartisan Support

Following the state’s announcement last week to close 25 percent of the California state parks system, and the , the legislature has begun to move.

Assemblyman Jared Huffman (D-Marin) sponsored Assembly Bill 42 in order to help protect those vulnerable parks, as well as all state parks. Today, the bill passed the Assembly with “overwhelming, bi-partisan support,” according to an update from the California State Parks Foundation (CSPF). The non-profit advocacy group was among several organizations to oppose the closures.

Local historical treasures such as Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen, Olompali State Park on Highway 101 and the would lose their state funding. The complete list of the 70 vulnerable parks slated for closure is available at this link.

AB42, which passed by a near-unanimous vote Thursday morning, May 19, allows for state parks to enter into operating agreements with non-profits, an option currently not open to them. At present parks can enter into similar agreements with for-profit companies, or concessionaires.

The bill now awaits Senate vote after clearing committees.