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California's 278 state parks are priceless public assets, important economic engines, much-needed recreational outlets and a vital legacy for our children and grandchildren. Chronic underfunding starving state parks, causing them to fall severely behind in needed maintenance and repairs. Twice in the past two years, state parks were on the brink of being shut down. Last year, nearly 150 state parks were shut down part‐time or suffered deep service reductions because of budget cuts, and more park closure proposals and budget cuts are expected this year.
Prop. 21, slated for the Nov. 2 statewide ballot, will create the State Parks and Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund. The measure will establish a dedicated and reliable funding stream for state parks and natural resources to ensure they can be enjoyed for generations to come. In exchange for free year-round day-use admission to California state parks and beaches, Californians will pay an $18 fee as part of the annual vehicle license fee (except for larger commercial vehicles, mobile homes and permanent trailers) to support state parks.
State Parks Are Important to the Local Economy
| Every year, California’s 278 state parks attract millions of tourists, who spend $4.32 billion annually in park-related expenditures. A recent study found that state park visitors spend an average of $57.63 in neighboring communities each visit. Visitors generate so much local economic activity that every dollar spent on state parks creates another $2.35 for California’s treasury. |
| State parks often times provide the lifeblood for local businesses that depend on tourists as a large portion of their customer base. In addition, state parks directly support 188 privately operated in-park concessions, which create local jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities. Without the protection offered by Prop. 21, these local businesses could suffer a large drop in revenues, potentially forcing the business to layoff employees or even close. |
State Parks Keep California Entertainment Industry Productions and Jobs At Home
| Each year, state parks serve as a major backdrop for California’s entertainment industry. State parks have been valuable locations for hundreds of films, television shows and commercials. These locations help keep productions in California and generate jobs. |
New Dedicated Revenue Stream Removes Parks from State Budget Battle
| As California continues to deal with annual budget shortfalls, Prop. 21 gives state parks—and the local businesses that depend on them—a steady source of funding that would be used to update and maintain the state park infrastructure. This important change will help avoid the widespread closures and/or deep reduction in services that state parks will otherwise face. |
Broad Coalition Supporting Prop. 21
| Supporters of Prop. 21 include the California Travel Industry Association, San Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau, California Lodging Industry Association, California Parks Company, Central Valley Tourism Association, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau, Outdoor Industry Association, Patagonia, Valley Industry and Commerce Association, Sierra Business Council, State Park Peace Officers Association of California, California State Park Rangers Association and the California State Lifeguard Association. Join the effort to save California’s state parks today! |
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