Grants certain first responders free use of state parks and campsites

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Erik Bottcher

The bill provides free park and campground access for first responders to state parks and designated campsites.

REFERRED TO CULTURAL AFFAIRS, TOURISM, PARKS AND RECREATION

Summary of Bill: S 10496 (2025-2026) – New York

Purpose and intent

This bill provides free state park and campground access to certain first responders. The core aim is to recognize and support the service of frontline public safety personnel by removing the cost barrier to recreational use of New York’s state parks and campsites.

Key provisions and changes

Eligibility for free use: The bill grants free admission and access for first responders to state parks and campgrounds. While the text provided does not specify every category of first responders, the intent is to extend benefits to personnel such as police, firefighters, emergency medical services (EMS), and related public safety staff.

Scope of use: Applies to state parks and designated state park campsites open to the public. The benefit is intended for the use of personal recreation rather than for official duty-related activities, unless otherwise specified in the bill.

Administration and administration rules: The bill would likely require an administering agency (in practice, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation) to establish procedures for verifying eligibility, issuing credentials or verification, and ensuring compliance with park rules. Details such as acceptable proof of employment and the process for enrollment or verification would be set forth in implementing regulations.

Duration and renewal: The bill would define the duration of eligibility (e.g., ongoing, subject to annual renewal or modification) and may include sunset or review provisions. The provided information does not specify exact timeframes.

Legislative sponsor: Co-sponsored by Erik Bottcher, indicating bipartisan or cross-chamber support within the context of the sponsor’s caucus and committees.

Affected parties and impacts

Primary beneficiaries: First responders and their families who wish to use state parks and campsites at no cost, potentially increasing access to outdoor recreation and contributing to workforce morale and recognition.

State agencies: The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation would administer the program, including eligibility verification, communications, and enforcement of park rules.

Other park users: The policy could influence park capacity planning and utilization, especially if demand increases among first responders. The state may need to monitor crowding, amenities, and resource allocation.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Current status: Referred to the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation on 2026-05-15.

Next steps: Committee consideration, potential amendments, and floor votes in the relevant legislative houses. If enacted, the bill would require the executive branch to implement verification processes, public information materials, and any related regulations by a specified effective date.

Notes

The summary reflects the available information. The actual bill text would provide precise eligibility criteria, verification methods, eligible parks and campsites, duration, and any limitations (e.g., annual caps, seasonal access, or restrictions on special events).

If you’d like, I can tailor this summary further once the full bill language or additional committee memos are available.