Overview: HB 1751, relative to a start park public safety parking surcharge, to be introduced on 01/07/2026 and referred to Resources, Recreation and Development HJ 1, introduced on January 07, 2025.
Purpose and Intent: The bill aims to establish a public safety parking surcharge for visitors to state parks. The goal is to generate additional revenue to support increased law enforcement and emergency response services in state parks.
Key Provisions:
- Imposes a $2 surcharge on all parking fees collected at state park facilities
- Directs the revenue from the surcharge to a dedicated fund for state park public safety operations
- Authorizes the use of the fund for hiring additional park rangers, purchasing equipment, and providing training
Affected Parties and Impacts: The bill would impact visitors to state parks, who would be required to pay the additional surcharge when parking. However, the increased funding could lead to improved safety and security within the state park system, benefiting both visitors and park staff.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: The bill is scheduled to be introduced on January 7, 2026, and will be referred to the Resources, Recreation and Development committee for consideration.