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SB 571

Disabled Veterans Family Passport; established, free entry into state parks and discounted services.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Glen Sturtevant

SB 571 grants disabled Virginia veterans and their families free state park entry and discounted services, contingent on Finance Committee approval of fiscal implications.

Continued to next session in Finance and Appropriations (10-Y 5-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 571

Legislative bill overview

SB 571 establishes a free entry passport for disabled veterans and their families to access Virginia's state parks, along with discounted rates on services and programs. The bill aims to provide tangible benefits and recreational access to a veteran population that has sacrificed for the state.

Why is this important

Disabled veterans often face financial constraints and mobility challenges that limit recreational opportunities, which have documented mental and physical health benefits. State parks represent accessible, no-cost or low-cost leisure resources that can meaningfully improve quality of life for this population and their families.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and sustainability: The Department of Planning and Budget issued a fiscal impact statement, suggesting concerns about revenue loss to parks and long-term program costs that likely drove the Finance Committee's scrutiny (10-Y, 5-N vote).
  • Definition scope: The bill's criteria for "disabled veteran" eligibility and whether family members' benefits are unlimited or restricted could affect program costs and administrative complexity.
  • Implementation burden: State parks may lack systems to verify disability status and veteran credentials at entry points, requiring new procedures and staff training across multiple facilities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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