Existing law designates all parks, public campgrounds, monument sites, landmark sites, and sites of historical interest established or acquired by the state, or that are under its control, as the state park system, except as specified. Under existing law, the Department of Parks and Recreation controls the state park system, which is made up of units.

This bill would require the Director of Parks and Recreation to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee that consists of the Chief of the Accessibility Division for the department and additional members appointed by the director, as provided. The bill would require the committee to serve in an advisory capacity to the director and make recommendations for improving the accessibility of units of the state park system for individuals with disabilities. The bill would require the committee to evaluate disability accessibility models and provisions, review services, programs, and activities provided by the department, and provide recommendations on general plans for the department, as provided. The bill would authorize the director to implement the committees recommendations as the director deems appropriate.

Existing law designates all parks, public campgrounds, monument sites, landmark sites, and sites of historical interest established or acquired by the state, or that are under its control, as the state park system, except as specified. Under existing law, the Department of Parks and Recreation controls the state park system, which is made up of units.

This bill would require the Director of Parks and Recreation to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee that consists of the director, the directors designees, and the Chief of the Accessibility Division for the department and additional members appointed by the director, as provided. The bill would require the committee to serve in an advisory capacity to the director and make recommendations for improving the accessibility of units of the state park system and state beaches system for individuals with disabilities. The bill would require the director to consult with, and consider the recommendations of, the committee, as provided. The bill would require the committee to evaluate disability accessibility models and provisions, review services, programs, and activities provided by the department, and provide recommendations on general plans for the department, as provided. The bill would authorize the director to implement the committees recommendations as the director deems appropriate.

Existing law designates all parks, public campgrounds, monument sites, landmark sites, and sites of historical interest established or acquired by the state, or that are under its control, as the state park system, except as specified. Under existing law, the Department of Parks and Recreation controls the state park system, which is made up of units.

This bill would require the Director of Parks and Recreation to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee that consists of the director, the directors designees, and additional members appointed by the director, as provided. The bill would require the committee to serve in an advisory capacity to the director and make recommendations for improving the accessibility of units of the state park system and state beaches for individuals with disabilities. The bill would require the director to consult with, and consider the recommendations of, the committee, as provided. The bill would authorize the director to implement the committees recommendations as the director deems appropriate.

GOVERNOR'S VETO

GV Bill Id:AB 1225

Author:(Bennett)

As Enrolled Ver:September 8, 2025

2/3 vote

SUMMARY

Requires the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC).

1. Requires the AAC to serve in an advisory capacity to the Director and make recommendations for improving the accessibility of units in the State Park system for individuals with disabilities.
2. Requires the AAC to include at least eight members, but no more than 14 members, which shall include the Chief of the Accessibility Division, no more than two representatives appointed by the Director, and additional members with demonstrated experience in public accessibility requirements.
3. Requires the AAC to do all of the following:
   1. Evaluate disability accessibility models and provisions from relevant federal and state park systems;
   2. Review services, programs, and activities provided by State Parks; and
   3. Provide recommendations to the Director on drafting and updating general plans for State Parks, as requested by the director.
4. Permits the Director to implement those recommendations as the Director deems appropriate.
5. Prohibits a member of the AAC from receiving compensation, but permits a member to be reimbursed for reasonable and necessary expenses in connection with service on the AAC.

Governor's Veto Message

"This bill would require [State Parks] to establish an [AAC] to make recommendations to [State Parks] on improving accessibility throughout the state park system.

While I support enhancing accessibility to recreational opportunities in state parks, this bill would be duplicative of [State Parks'] existing Accessibility Division. Moreover, [State Parks] has completed hundreds of projects throughout the state park system, removing architectural and programmatic access barriers and constructing accessible trails pursuant to a court-approved timeline under a long-standing consent decree."

COMMENTS

According to the State Parks website, one of the core values at State Parks is cultural diversity and accessibility. Most state park units were established, and have trails and facilities, that were put in place before Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the state equivalent. According to the 2003 Transition Plan from the Accessibility Section of State Parks, even before the passage of the ADA, State Parks had been working to make its parks and programs accessible to all visitors.

Accessibility at State Parks is guided by the Accessibility Guidelines, 2015, which is developed by the Accessibility Division at State Parks. The Guidelines embody a compilation of accessibility standards, recommendations, and regulations for compliance with accessibility laws and are intended for practical use throughout state parks in regular maintenance duties, construction projects, and to understand and review the work of outside contractors. These guidelines cover items from assistive listening systems to portable toilets and sinks.

Accessibility improvements are ongoing at state park units and each unit of the state park system has a webpage that describes the accessible facilities of each park and the degree to which there are any deviations from current accessibility standards. At the bottom of each of those webpages is a contact in order for park users to request updates to the provided information. Additionally, there is a mechanism by which to file a comment or complaint regarding access to state park units, which is also detailed on State Park's website.

State Parks currently provides a few mechanisms by which to increase access to persons with disabilities. State Parks provides a pass to persons with permanent disabilities that entitles the pass holder to a 50% discount for family camping and boat-use fees at over 100 units operated by State Parks. Wheel chairs and manually-powered aids (e.g., walkers, crutches) are allowed in all state park areas that are available to the public. Qualified service animals are allowed into all state park areas that are available to the public. State Parks is also continuing to improve the accessibility of its website for physical disabilities.

Accessibility improvements are also guided by the Tucker Consent Decree, which is a result of a 2005 lawsuit in which a group of plaintiffs filed a class action lawsuit against the California Parks System, alleging that they were "denied their right to full and equal access to, and use and enjoyment of facilities and programs of [State Parks] because of architectural and programmatic barriers." In settling Tucker v. State of California Department of Parks and Recreation, et al., State Parks agreed to improve access to its parks through comprehensive architectural and programmatic barrier removal. As part of the settlement (i.e., the Tucker Consent Decree), Disability Rights Advocates monitors the progress of State Park's accessibility improvements. These improvements include making a reasonable portion of the trail system accessible for people in wheelchairs, providing access to beaches and shores, providing accessible signage for blind and low vision park visitors, and providing captioned videos and sign language interpreters for park activities. The current amended consent decree requires projects be completed between 2026 and 2038.

According to Disability Rights Advocates, State Parks has allocated over $90 million in funding for access improvements to over 65 parks and has completed a total of 73 accessible trail projects, but because some of these projects were completed almost 20 years ago, there is ongoing maintenance and updates needed. The sponsors also acknowledge that State Parks adheres to the ADA and Title 24; however, they do note that State Parks does not consult with individuals with disabilities or disability advocacy groups during the planning of new trails or facilities.

According to the Author

"California's parks and beaches should be accessible to everyone, but many still face barriers that limit their ability to enjoy them. With 1.6 million acres owned by State Parks and 280 miles of coastline, it's essential that we remove obstacles and create truly inclusive outdoor spaces. [This bill] establishes [the AAC] within [State Parks] to assess current challenges and recommend improvements, ensuring our public lands meet the needs of all visitors. By prioritizing accessibility, this bill helps make California's natural beauty open to everyone, regardless of ability."

Arguments in Support

This bill's sponsors, Disability Rights Advocates, write that full participation in outdoor spaces remains a systemic issue and that this bill will provide a "critical step toward rectifying these longstanding inequities by establishing an advisory body dedicated to improving accessibility in our state's parks and coastal areas." They also note the health benefits from nature-based recreation. California Outdoor Recreation Partnership also notes that the AAC is a natural and needed extension of the state's Outdoors For All initiative. Several letters also cite the value in having more accessible public spaces to discourage stereotypes and misconceptions that individuals with disabilities are not interested in enjoying nature.

Arguments in Opposition

None on file.

FISCAL COMMENTS

According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee:

"State Parks notes it cannot absorb the workload resulting from this bill within existing resources and estimates General Fund costs of approximately $361,000 in year one and $341,000 annually thereafter for two positions and public meeting costs. In addition, State Parks anticipates $200,000 in ongoing General Fund costs for legal costs. As discussed below, State Parks is operating under a consent decree and working to improve access to parks through comprehensive barrier removal. To the extent the work of and recommendations developed by the AAC conflict with or deviate from the terms of the settlement, State Parks (and potentially the Attorney General and the courts) may incur costs."

VOTES

ASM WATER, PARKS, AND WILDLIFE: 13-0-0

YES: Papan, Jeff Gonzalez, Alvarez, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bennett, Boerner, Caloza, Hart, Macedo, Celeste Rodriguez, Rogers, Tangipa

ASM APPROPRIATIONS: 14-0-1

YES: Wicks, Arambula, Calderon, Caloza, Dixon, Elhawary, Fong, Mark González, Hart, Pacheco, Pellerin, Solache, Ta, Tangipa

ABS, ABST OR NV: Sanchez

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 79-0-0

YES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer‑Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Celeste Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas

SENATE FLOOR: 39-0-1

YES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Grove, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Richardson, Rubio, Seyarto, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener

ABS, ABST OR NV: Reyes

UPDATED

VERSION: September 8, 2025

CONSULTANT: Stephanie Mitchell / W., P., & W. / (916) 319-2096 FN: 0002191

 THIRD READING  

Bill No: AB 1225

Author: Bennett (D), et al.

Amended: 5/5/25 in Assembly

Vote: 21

SENATE NATURAL RES. & WATER COMMITTEE: 7-0, 6/24/25

AYES: Limón, Seyarto, Allen, Grove, Hurtado, Laird, Stern

SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: 7-0, 8/29/25

AYES: Caballero, Seyarto, Cabaldon, Dahle, Grayson, Richardson, Wahab

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 79-0, 6/2/25 - See last page for vote

SUBJECT: State parks: Accessibility Advisory Committee

SOURCE: Author

DIGEST:

This bill requires the Director of Parks and Recreation (director) to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee.

ANALYSIS:

Existing federal law:

1. Establishes the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) (42 United States Code §§ 12101 et seq.). Pursuant to ADA:
   1. Congress finds that physical or mental disabilities in no way diminish a person’s right to fully participate in all aspects of society; and
   2. No individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of disability in the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations of any place of public accommodation by any person who owns, leases, or leases to, or operates a place of public accommodation.

Existing state law:

1. Provides, pursuant to the state Unruh Civil Rights Act, that all persons, regardless of disability or medical condition, among other things, are entitled to the full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges, or services in all business establishments of every kind (Civil Code § 51(b)).
2. Provides that, pursuant to the state Disabled Persons Act, individuals with disabilities or medical conditions have the same rights as the general public to the full and free use of the streets, highways, sidewalks, walkways, public buildings, and medical facilities including hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices, public facilities, and other public places, and also provides that a violation of an individual’s rights under the ADA constitutes a violation of state law (Civil Code § 54).
3. Establishes the California Commission on Disability Access (CCDA), an independent state agency composed of 17 members, with responsibility for monitoring disability access compliance in California and the authority to hold hearings and make recommendations to the Legislature for necessary changes to existing state law in order to facilitate implementation of state and federal laws on disability access (Government Code §§ 14985 et seq.).
4. Requires each state agency to establish a committee of employees who are individuals with a disability, or with an interest in disability issues, to enhance employment and promotional opportunities for the disabled community, as well as weigh in on the implementation of ADA (Government Code § 19795).
5. Establishes the Secretary of State’s Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations to the Secretary to improve accessibility in the voting process (Elections Code § 2053).
6. Establishes the Secretary of State’s Language Accessibility Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations on issues related to language accessibility of elections and election materials (Elections Code § 2600).
7. Allows the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to enter into ‘community access agreements’ that allows eligible entities to use property within the state park system to provide interpretive and visitor services to underserved park uses, including those with disabilities (Public Resources Code § 5009.5).

This bill:

1. Requires the director to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee. The committee shall advise the director regarding recommendations for improving the accessibility of state parks for individuals with disabilities.
2. Establishes the membership of the committee.
3. Establishes the purposes of the committee.
4. Authorizes the director to implement the committee’s recommendations as the director deems appropriate
5. Establishes that committee members may not receive compensation, but may be reimbursed for reasonable and necessary expenses in connection with their service.

Comments

First person input. Although State Parks adheres to the ADA and Title 24, and has been making progress complying with the consent decree, the voices of disabled people are missing from planning new trails and facilities. The committee established by this bill would be able to provide recommendations based on lived experiences of disabled people in the State Parks’ system, improving access to parks beyond the minimums required by law.

FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Yes Local: No

SUPPORT: (Verified 8/28/25)

Disability Rights California (sponsor)

BORP Adapted Sports and Recreation

California Foundation for Independent Living Centers

California Outdoor Recreation Partnership

California State Council on Developmental Disabilities

Designing Accessible Communities

Disabled Hikers

Easterseals Northern California

Nature Collective

The Coelho Center for Disability Law, Policy, and Innovation

An individual

OPPOSITION: (Verified 8/28/25)

None received

ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: According to the author, “California’s parks and beaches should be accessible to everyone, but many still face barriers that limit their ability to enjoy them. With 1.6 million acres owned by State Parks and 280 miles of coastline, it’s essential that we remove obstacles and create truly inclusive outdoor spaces. AB 1225 establishes an Accessibility Advisory Committee within the Department of Parks and Recreation to assess current challenges and recommend improvements, ensuring our public lands meet the needs of all visitors. By prioritizing accessibility, this bill helps make California’s natural beauty open to everyone, regardless of ability.”

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 79-0, 6/2/25

AYES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Celeste Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas

Prepared by: Edith Hannigan / N.R. & W. / (916) 651-4116

8/30/25 16:08:53

**** END ****

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES AND WATER

Senator Monique Limón, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular

Bill No: AB Hearing Date: June 24, 2025

Subject: State parks: Accessibility Advisory Committee

SUMMARY

This bill would require the Director of Parks and Recreation (director) to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee.

BACKGROUND AND EXISTING LAW

Accessibility in the outdoors. More than one in four adults have a disability, ranging from neurodivergence to mobility differences. Black and Indigenous people have higher rates of disability. Although many outdoor spaces advertise themselves as accessible, there is often more nuance required to make a park truly available to those with disabilities – nuance that can only be provided by those who recreate with disabilities and can provide advice to park agencies based on lived experiences.

Outdoors for All Initiative. The Administration of Governor Gavin Newsom established the Outdoors for All Initiative to enable equitable access to nature and the outdoors in order to advance the Governor’s commitment to building a California for All. The Outdoors for All strategy calls for a future where everyone can experience and benefit from California’s incredible outdoor spaces.

Existing federal law:

1. Establishes the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) (42 United States Code §§ 12101 et seq.). Pursuant to ADA:
   1. Congress finds that physical or mental disabilities in no way diminish a person’s right to fully participate in all aspects of society; and
   2. No individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of disability in the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations of any place of public accommodation by any person who owns, leases, or leases to, or operates a place of public accommodation.

Existing state law:

1. Provides, pursuant to the state Unruh Civil Rights Act, that all persons, regardless of disability or medical condition, among other things, are entitled to the full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges, or services in all business establishments of every kind (Civil Code § 51(b)).
2. Provides that, pursuant to the state Disabled Persons Act, individuals with disabilities or medical conditions have the same rights as the general public to the full and free use of the streets, highways, sidewalks, walkways, public buildings, and medical facilities including hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices, public facilities, and other public places, and also provides that a violation of an individual’s rights under the ADA constitutes a violation of state law (Civil Code § 54).
3. Establishes the California Commission on Disability Access (CCDA), an independent state agency composed of 17 members, with responsibility for monitoring disability access compliance in California and the authority to hold hearings and make recommendations to the Legislature for necessary changes to existing state law in order to facilitate implementation of state and federal laws on disability access (Government Code §§ 14985 et seq.).
4. Requires each state agency to establish a committee of employees who are individuals with a disability, or with an interest in disability issues, to enhance employment and promotional opportunities for the disabled community, as well as weigh in on the implementation of ADA (Government Code § 19795).
5. Establishes the Secretary of State’s Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations to the Secretary to improve accessibility in the voting process (Elections Code § 2053).
6. Establishes the Secretary of State’s Language Accessibility Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations on issues related to language accessibility of elections and election materials (Elections Code § 2600).
7. Allows the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to enter into ‘community access agreements’ that allows eligible entities to use property within the state park system to provide interpretive and visitor services to underserved park uses, including those with disabilities (Public Resources Code § 5009.5).

PROPOSED LAW

This bill would:

1. Require the director to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee. The committee shall advise the director regarding recommendations for improving the accessibility of state parks for individuals with disabilities.
   
2. Establish the membership of the committee as follows:
   
   1. At least 8, but no more than 14, members, including:
      1. The Chief of the Accessibility Division for State Parks,
      2. No more than two other members from State Parks, and
      3. Other members with demonstrated experience in public accessibility requirements for individuals with disabilities.
3. Establish the purposes of the committee as follows:
   
   1. Evaluate disability accessibility models and provisions from relevant federal and state park systems.
   2. Review services, programs, and activities provided by the department.
   3. Provide recommendations to the director on drafting and updating general plans for the department, as requested by the director.
      
4. Authorize the director to implement the committee’s recommendations as the director deems appropriate
   
5. Establish that committee members may not receive compensation, but may be reimbursed for reasonable and necessary expenses in connection with their service.

ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT

According to the author, “California’s parks and beaches should be accessible to everyone, but many still face barriers that limit their ability to enjoy them. With 1.6 million acres owned by State Parks and 280 miles of coastline, it’s essential that we remove obstacles and create truly inclusive outdoor spaces. AB 1225 establishes an Accessibility Advisory Committee within the Department of Parks and Recreation to assess current challenges and recommend improvements, ensuring our public lands meet the needs of all visitors. By prioritizing accessibility, this bill helps make California’s natural beauty open to everyone, regardless of ability.”

ARGUMENTS IN OPPOSITION

None received.

COMMENTS

Tucker Consent Decree. In 2005, a group of plaintiffs (Bonnie Tucker, Peter Mendoza, California Council of the Blind, and Californians for Disability Rights) filed a class action lawsuit against the California Parks System, alleging that they were “denied their right to full and equal access to, and use and enjoyment of facilities and programs of [State Parks] because of architectural and programmatic barriers.”

In settling Tucker v. State of California Department of Parks and Recreation, et al., State Parks agreed to improve access to its parks through comprehensive architectural and programmatic barrier removal. As part of the settlement (i.e., Tucker Consent Decree), Disability Rights Advocates monitors the progress of State Park’s accessibility improvements. These improvements include making a reasonable portion of the trail system accessible for people in wheelchairs, providing access to beaches and shores, providing accessible signage for blind and low vision park visitors, and providing captioned videos and sign language interpreters for park activities.

As a part of the Tucker Consent Decree, State Parks has a list of about 200 projects ranked based on priority using a scale of 1 to 4 based on location, level of use, the number of activities offered, and how unique a program may be. Based on State Parks’ 2023 Benchmark analysis, about 65% of projects on their 2005 list have been completed. When the consent decree was first enacted in 2005, the schedule required that the upgrades be completed between 2009 and 2016, depending on the priority scale ranking. The current amended consent decree pushed back these dates, now requiring projects be completed between 2026 and 2038.

According to Disability Rights Advocates, sponsor of the bill, State Parks has allocated over $90 million in funding for access improvements to over 65 parks and has completed a total of 73 accessible trail projects, but because some of these projects were completed almost 20 years ago, there is ongoing maintenance and updates needed. The sponsors also acknowledge that State Parks adheres to the ADA and Title 24; however, they do note that State Parks does not consult with individuals with disabilities or disability advocacy groups during the planning of new trails or facilities.

Building on good progress. California’s first state park was created in 1862 after U.S. Senator John Conness introduced a bill that granted “Yo-Semite Valley” and the Mariposa Big Tree Grove to the State of California. After President Lincoln signed the bill in 1864, California Governor Fredrick Low accepted the grant in September of that year, forming California’s first state park. The land was eventually returned to the federal government in 1906 and became Yosemite National Park. In 1901 California set aside 2,500 acres in Santa Cruz County, creating what is now the oldest state park, the Big Basin Redwoods. Since then, State Parks has created 280 parks, and acquired over 340 miles of coastline, 970 miles of lake and river frontage, 15,000 campsites, 5,200 miles of trails, and 3,195 historic buildings. Every year 75 million people visit the state parks, and with one in every four adults having a disability there is a need for accessible outdoor spaces. However, because many of these parks were created prior to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the effort to ensure California’s parks and beaches are accessible is still ongoing.

Even prior to the passage of the ADA, State Parks took steps to create parks accessible for all visitors. Extensive efforts began in the early 1980s when State Parks created the Disabled Advisory Committee (DAC), comprised of individuals with disabilities, employees, members of the public, and advocates for disability issues (CA State Parks Transition Plan 2003). A few years later a special task force, including members of DAC, conducted a study on access to facilities within the parks; this study eventually led to the creation of the Access to Parks Guidelines (ATPG). ATPG, completed in 1994, contained recommendations on optimal standards for accessibility in parks used by park staff. It appears that the DAC stopped meeting after ATPG was created.

First person input. Although State Parks adheres to the ADA and Title 24, and has been making progress complying with the consent decree, the voices of disabled people are missing from planning new trails and facilities. The committee established by this bill would be able to provide recommendations based on lived experiences of disabled people in the State Parks’ system, improving access to parks beyond the minimums required by law.

SUPPORT

Disability Rights California (sponsor)

BORP Adapted Sports and Recreation

California Foundation for Independent Living Centers

California Outdoor Recreation Partnership

California State Council on Developmental Disabilities

Designing Accessible Communities

Disabled Hikers

Nature Collective

The Coelho Center for Disability Law, Policy, and Innovation

An individual

OPPOSITION

None Received

-- END --

ASSEMBLY THIRD READING

ATR Bill Id:AB 1225

Author:(Bennett)

As Amended Ver:May 5, 2025

Majority vote

SUMMARY

Requires the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC).

Major Provisions

1. Requires the AAC to serve in an advisory capacity to the Director and make recommendations for improving the accessibility of units in the State Park system for individuals with disabilities.
2. Requires the ACC to include at least eight members, but no more than 14 members, which shall include the Chief of the Accessibility Division, no more than two representatives appointed by the Director, and additional members with demonstrated experience in public accessibility requirements.
3. Requires the ACC to do all of the following:
   1. Evaluate disability accessibility models and provisions from relevant federal and state park systems;
   2. Review services, programs, and activities provided by State Parks; and
   3. Provide recommendations to the Director on drafting and updating general plans for State Parks, as requested by the director.
4. Permits the Director to implement those recommendations as the Director deems appropriate.
5. Prohibits a member of the ACC from receiving compensation, but permits a member to be reimbursed for reasonable and necessary expenses in connection with service on the AAC.

COMMENTS

According to the State Parks website, one of the core values at State Parks is cultural diversity and accessibility. Most state park units were established, and have trails and facilities, that were put in place before Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the state equivalent. According to the 2003 Transition Plan from the Accessibility Section of State Parks, even before the passage of the ADA, State Parks had been working to make its parks and programs accessible to all visitors.

Accessibility at State Parks is guided by the Accessibility Guidelines, 2015, which is developed by the Accessibility Division at State Parks. The Guidelines embody a compilation of accessibility standards, recommendations, and regulations for compliance with accessibility laws and are intended for practical use throughout state parks in regular maintenance duties, construction projects, and to understand and review the work of outside contractors. These guidelines cover items from assistive listening systems to portable toilets and sinks.

Accessibility improvements are ongoing at state park units and each unit of the state park system has a webpage that describes the accessible facilities of each park and the degree to which there are any deviations from current accessibility standards. At the bottom of each of those webpages is a contact in order for park users to request updates to the provided information. Additionally, there is a mechanism by which to file a comment or complaint regarding access to state park units, which is also detailed on State Park's website.

State Parks currently provides a few mechanisms by which to increase access to persons with disabilities. State Parks provides a pass to persons with permanent disabilities that entitles the pass holder to a 50% discount for family camping and boat-use fees at over 100 units operated by State Parks. Wheel chairs and manually-powered aids (e.g., walkers, crutches) are allowed in all state park areas that are available to the public. Qualified service animals are allowed into all state park areas that are available to the public. State Parks is also continuing to improve the accessibility of its website for physical disabilities.

Accessibility improvements are also guided by the Tucker Consent Decree, which is a result of a 2005 lawsuit in which a group of plaintiffs filed a class action lawsuit against the California Parks System, alleging that they were "denied their right to full and equal access to, and use and enjoyment of facilities and programs of [State Parks] because of architectural and programmatic barriers." In settling Tucker v. State of California Department of Parks and Recreation, et al., State Parks agreed to improve access to its parks through comprehensive architectural and programmatic barrier removal. As part of the settlement (i.e., the Tucker Consent Decree), Disability Rights Advocates monitors the progress of State Park's accessibility improvements. These improvements include making a reasonable portion of the trail system accessible for people in wheelchairs, providing access to beaches and shores, providing accessible signage for blind and low vision park visitors, and providing captioned videos and sign language interpreters for park activities. The current amended consent decree requires projects be completed between 2026 and 2038.

According to Disability Rights Advocates, State Parks has allocated over $90 million in funding for access improvements to over 65 parks and has completed a total of 73 accessible trail projects, but because some of these projects were completed almost 20 years ago, there is ongoing maintenance and updates needed. The sponsors also acknowledge that State Parks adheres to the ADA and Title 24; however, they do note that State Parks does not consult with individuals with disabilities or disability advocacy groups during the planning of new trails or facilities.

According to the Author

"California's parks and beaches should be accessible to everyone, but many still face barriers that limit their ability to enjoy them. With 1.6 million acres owned by State Parks and 280 miles of coastline, it's essential that we remove obstacles and create truly inclusive outdoor spaces. [This bill] establishes [the AAC] within [State Parks] to assess current challenges and recommend improvements, ensuring our public lands meet the needs of all visitors. By prioritizing accessibility, this bill helps make California's natural beauty open to everyone, regardless of ability."

Arguments in Support

This bill's sponsors, Disability Rights Advocates, write that full participation in outdoor spaces remains a systemic issue and that this bill will provide a "critical step toward rectifying these longstanding inequities by establishing an advisory body dedicated to improving accessibility in our state's parks and coastal areas." They also note the health benefits from nature-based recreation. California Outdoor Recreation Partnership also notes that the AAC is a natural and needed extension of the state's Outdoors For All initiative. Several letters also cite the value in having more accessible public spaces to discourage stereotypes and misconceptions that individuals with disabilities are not interested in enjoying nature.

Arguments in Opposition

None on file.

FISCAL COMMENTS

According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee:

"State Parks notes it cannot absorb the workload resulting from this bill within existing resources and estimates General Fund costs of approximately $361,000 in year one and $341,000 annually thereafter for two positions and public meeting costs. In addition, State Parks anticipates $200,000 in ongoing General Fund costs for legal costs. As discussed below, State Parks is operating under a consent decree and working to improve access to parks through comprehensive barrier removal. To the extent the work of and recommendations developed by the AAC conflict with or deviate from the terms of the settlement, State Parks (and potentially the Attorney General and the courts) may incur costs."

VOTES

ASM WATER, PARKS, AND WILDLIFE: 13-0-0

YES: Papan, Jeff Gonzalez, Alvarez, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bennett, Boerner, Caloza, Hart, Macedo, Celeste Rodriguez, Rogers, Tangipa

ASM APPROPRIATIONS: 14-0-1

YES: Wicks, Arambula, Calderon, Caloza, Dixon, Elhawary, Fong, Mark González, Hart, Pacheco, Pellerin, Solache, Ta, Tangipa

ABS, ABST OR NV: Sanchez

UPDATED

VERSION: May 5, 2025

CONSULTANT: Stephanie Mitchell / W., P., & W. / (916) 319-2096 FN: 0000884

Date of Hearing: May 14, 2025

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

Buffy Wicks, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:AB 1225

Author:(Bennett) – As Amended Ver:May 5, 2025

Urgency: No State Mandated Local Program: No Reimbursable: No

SUMMARY:

This bill requires the director of the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) to make recommendations for improving the accessibility of state parks for individuals with disabilities.

Specifically, this bill:

1) Requires the director of State Parks to establish the AAC. Provides that the AAC shall serve in an advisory capacity to the director and make recommendations for improving the accessibility of units of the state park system for individuals with disabilities.

2) Requires the AAC to consist of at least eight but no more than 14 members, and to include the Chief of the Accessibility Division for State Parks and, as appointed by the director, no more than two other representatives from the department and other members with demonstrated experience in public accessibility requirements for individuals with disabilities.

3) Requires the AAC to: (a) evaluate disability accessibility models and provisions from relevant federal and state park systems; (b) review services, programs, and activities provided by State Parks; and (c) provide recommendations to the director on drafting and updating general plans for the department, as requested by the director.

4) Provides that the director may implement the AAC’s recommendations as the director deems appropriate.

5) Provides that a member shall not receive compensation, but requires that each member be reimbursed for reasonable and necessary expenses in connection with service on the AAC.

FISCAL EFFECT:

State Parks notes it cannot absorb the workload resulting from this bill within existing resources and estimates General Fund costs of approximately $361,000 in year one and $341,000 annually thereafter for two positions and public meeting costs. In addition, State Parks anticipates $200,000 in ongoing General Fund costs for legal costs. As discussed below, State Parks is operating under a consent decree and working to improve access to parks through comprehensive barrier removal. To the extent the work of and recommendations developed by the AAC conflict with or deviate from the terms of the settlement, State Parks (and potentially the Attorney General and the courts) may incur costs.

COMMENTS:

1) Purpose. According to the author:

California’s parks and beaches should be accessible to everyone, but many still face barriers that limit their ability to enjoy them...[This bill] establishes [the AAC] within [State Parks] to assess current challenges and recommend improvements, ensuring our public lands meet the needs of all visitors.

2) Background. Accessibility at State Parks. Accessibility improvements are ongoing at state parks. State Parks notes that many of its park units have facilities such as restrooms, campsites, and visitor centers that are designated accessible. In some cases, these facilities were accessible when constructed but may not meet all current building and access codes. The “accessible features” webpage for each park unit includes descriptions of the accessible facilities using a set of defined terms, and explains deviations from the most current accessible standards to the extent practicable. To find accessible features by type of recreational opportunity, by park name, or by geographic region, the department directs visitors to visit its website.

For a more detailed history of accessibility improvement efforts at state parks – including the development of the California State Parks Accessibility Guidelines and the work of the Disabled Advisory Committee – please see the Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee’s analysis of this bill.

Tucker Consent Decree. Since 2005, State Parks has been operating under a federal consent decree resulting from a class action lawsuit. In settling Tucker, et al. v. State of California Department of Parks and Recreation et al., State Parks agreed to remove architectural and programmatic access barriers and construct accessible trails following a court-approved timeline. To date, State Parks has completed hundreds of barrier removal and accessible trail projects statewide.

This bill is sponsored by Disability Rights California (DRC), which argues that many of the park trails, facilities, and public access areas in the state park system “were designed without consideration for individuals with disabilities, unintentionally excluding a large portion of Californians from the Park System and its mission.” DRC writes:

Since the passage of the ADA, society has made significant strides in recognizing and addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities. However, barriers to full participation in outdoor spaces remain a systemic issue. AB 1225 provides a critical step toward rectifying these longstanding inequities by establishing an advisory body dedicated to improving accessibility in our state’s parks and coastal areas.

Analysis Prepared by: Nikita Koraddi / APPR. / (916) 319-2081

Date of Hearing: April 29, 2025

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON WATER, PARKS, AND WILDLIFE

Diane Papan, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:AB 1225 (

Author:Bennett) – As Introduced Ver:February 21, 2025

SUBJECT: State parks and state beaches: Accessibility Advisory Committee

SUMMARY: Requires the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC). Specifically, this bill:

1. Requires the AAC to serve in an advisory capacity to the Director and make recommendations for improving the accessibility of units in the State Park system and state beaches for individuals with disabilities.
2. Requires the ACC to include the Director, the Director’s designees, and additional members with demonstrated experience in public accessibility requirements, as appointed by the Director.
3. Requires the Director to consult with the ACC, consider ACC recommendations, and implement those recommendations as the Director deems appropriate.
4. Prohibits a member of the ACC from receiving compensation, but permits a member to be reimbursed for reasonable and necessary expenses in connection with service on the AAC.

EXISTING LAW:

1. Establishes the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) [42 United States Code §§ 12101 et seq.]. Pursuant to ADA:
   1. Congress finds that physical or mental disabilities in no way diminish a person’s right to fully participate in all aspects of society; and
   2. No individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of disability in the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations of any place of public accommodation by any person who owns, leases, or leases to, or operates a place of public accommodation.
2. Provides, pursuant to the state Unruh Civil Rights Act, that all persons, regardless of disability or medical condition, among other things, are entitled to the full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges, or services in all business establishments of every kind [Civil Code § 51(b)].
3. Provides that, pursuant to the state Disabled Persons Act, individuals with disabilities or medical conditions have the same rights as the general public to the full and free use of the streets, highways, sidewalks, walkways, public buildings, and medical facilities including hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices, public facilities, and other public places, and also provides that a violation of an individual’s rights under the ADA constitutes a violation of state law (Civil Code § 54).
4. Establishes the California Commission on Disability Access (CCDA), an independent state agency composed of 17 members, with responsibility for monitoring disability access compliance in California and the authority to hold hearings and make recommendations to the Legislature for necessary changes to existing state law in order to facilitate implementation of state and federal laws on disability access (Government Code §§ 14985 et seq.).
5. Requires each state agency to establish a committee of employees who are individuals with a disability, or with an interest in disability issues, to enhance employment and promotional opportunities for the disabled community, as well as weigh in on the implementation of ADA (Government Code § 19795).
6. Establishes the Secretary of State’s Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations to the Secretary to improve accessibility in the voting process (Elections Code § 2053).
7. Establishes the Secretary of State’s Language Accessibility Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations on issues related to language accessibility of elections and election materials (Elections Code § 2600).
8. Allows State Parks to enter into ‘community access agreements’ that allows eligible entities to use property within the state park system to provide interpretive and visitor services to underserved park uses, including those with disabilities (Public Resources Code § 5009.5).

FISCAL EFFECT: Unknown. This bill is keyed fiscal.

COMMENTS:

1. Purpose of this bill. According to the author, “California’s parks and beaches should be accessible to everyone, but many still face barriers that limit their ability to enjoy them. With 1.6 million acres owned by State Parks and 280 miles of coastline, it’s essential that we remove obstacles and create truly inclusive outdoor spaces. [This bill] establishes [the AAC] within [State Parks] to assess current challenges and recommend improvements, ensuring our public lands meet the needs of all visitors. By prioritizing accessibility, this bill helps make California’s natural beauty open to everyone, regardless of ability.”
2. Background. According to the State Parks website, one of the core values at State Parks is cultural diversity and accessibility. Most state park units were established, and have trails and facilities, that were put in place before ADA or the state equivalent. According to the 2003 Transition Plan from the Accessibility Section of State Parks, even before the passage of the ADA, State Parks had been working to make its parks and programs accessible to all visitors. Extensive efforts began in the early 1980’s when the State Parks created the Disabled Advisory Committee (DAC) comprised of persons with disabilities, including State Park employees as well as members of the general public, and advocates for accessibility issues. A few years later a special task force including some members of the DAC began an intensive study on access to facilities within the parks. Input from these groups led to the 1994 production of Access to Parks Guidelines, a manual for park staff recommending optimal standards for accessibility within parks, which contains the most stringent standards from the federal and state accessibility regulations. According to State Parks, the DAC lost a majority of its membership as a result of COVID and retirements, although efforts are underway to reestablish DAC. Additionally, State Park’s DAC was before the requirements of Equal Employment Opportunity Program (see Existing Law #5), as such, as State Parks rebuilds its DAC, its objective will primarily be to advise the Director of State Parks on matters related to equal opportunity and access for employees.

Disability accessibility at parks. Accessibility at State Parks is guided by the Accessibility Guidelines, 2015, which is developed by the Accessibility Division at State Parks. The Guidelines embody a compilation of accessibility standards, recommendations, and regulations for compliance with accessibility laws and are intended for practical use throughout state parks in regular maintenance duties, construction projects, and to understand and review the work of outside contractors. These guidelines cover times from assistive listening systems to portable toilets and sinks.

Accessibility improvements are ongoing at state park units and each unit of the state park system has a webpage that describes the accessible facilities of each park and the degree to which there are any deviations from current accessibility standards. At the bottom of each of those webpages is a contact in order for park users to request updates to the provided information. Additionally, there is a mechanism by which to file a comment or complaint regarding access to state park units, which is also detailed on State Park’s website.

State Parks currently provides a few mechanisms by which to increase access to persons with disabilities. State Parks provides a pass to persons with permanent disabilities that entitles the pass holder to a 50% discount for family camping and boat-use fees at over 100 units operated by State Parks. Wheel chairs and manually-powered aids (e.g., walkers, crutches) are allowed in all state park areas that are available to the public. Further, State Parks allows the use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMD) (i.e., battery, fuel, or engine-powered mobility devices) in areas of parks where the use of OPDMD would not cause harm to the natural or cultural resources and would not fundamentally alter the nature of services, programs, or activities provided. Qualified service animals are allowed into all state park areas that are available to the public. State Parks is also continuing to improve the accessibility of its website for physical disabilities.

Further, State Parks develops and publishes a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Program (SCORP), which is a five-year plan to establish grant priorities to address unmet needs for public outdoor recreation land throughout California. SCORP is the mechanism by which the state maintains eligibility for federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grants, which, among other things, can be used to invest in projects that improve access for visitors with disabilities.

Tucker Consent Decree. In 2005, a group of plaintiffs (Bonnie Tucker, Peter Mendoza, California Council of the Blind, and Californians for Disability Rights) filed a class action lawsuit against the California Parks System, alleging that they were “denied their right to full and equal access to, and use and enjoyment of facilities and programs of [State Parks] because of architectural and programmatic barriers.”

In settling Tucker v. State of California Department of Parks and Recreation, et al., State Parks agreed to improve access to its parks through comprehensive architectural and programmatic barrier removal. As part of the settlement (i.e., Tucker Consent Decree), Disability Rights Advocates monitors the progress of State Park’s accessibility improvements. These improvements include making a reasonable portion of the trail system accessible for people in wheelchairs, providing access to beaches and shores, providing accessible signage for blind and low vision park visitors, and providing captioned videos and sign language interpreters for park activities.

As a part of the Tucker Consent Decree, State Parks has a list of about 200 projects ranked based on priority using a scale of 1 to 4 based on location, level of use, the number of activities offered, and how unique a program may be. Based on State Parks 2023 Benchmark analysis, about 65% of projects on their 2005 list have been completed. When the consent decree was first enacted in 2005, the schedule required that the upgrades be completed between 2009 and 2016, depending on the priority scale ranking. The current amended consent decree pushed back these dates, now requiring projects be completed between 2026 and 2038.

According to Disability Rights Advocates, State Parks has allocated over $90 million in funding for access improvements to over 65 parks and has completed a total of 73 accessible trail projects, but because some of these projects were completed almost 20 years ago, there is ongoing maintenance and updates needed. The sponsors also acknowledge that State Parks adheres to the ADA and Title 24; however, they do note that State Parks does not consult with individuals with disabilities or disability advocacy groups during the planning of new trails or facilities.

1. Proposed committee amendments. As there are ongoing efforts at State Parks to both maintain and improve quality access for persons with disabilities, through both the Accessibility Division and as prescribed in the Tucker Consent Decree, it will be helpful to develop an AAC that is better integrated into those existing efforts. The committee may wish the author to amend the bill to include relevant staff at State Parks and provide more specificity in the goals of the AAC.

5008.9. (a) The director shall establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee. The committee shall serve in an advisory capacity to the director and make recommendations for improving the accessibility of units of the state park system and state beaches for individuals with disabilities.

(b) The committee shall consist of no less than 8 members and no more than 14 members. Committee membership shall include the Chief of the Accessibility Divisions from the department, no more than two additional representatives from the department the director, the director’s designees, and and additional members with demonstrated experience in public accessibility requirements for individuals with disabilities, as appointed by the director.

(c) The committee shall:The director shall consult with the committee and consider the committee’s recommendations related to improving the accessibility of units of the state park system and state beaches for individuals with disabilities.

(1) Evaluate disability accessibility models and provisions from relevant federal and state park systems.

(2) Review services, programs, and activities offered by the department.

(3) Provide recommendations on draft general plans and subsequent amendments, as requested by the department.

(d) The director may implement the committee’s recommendations as the director deems appropriate.

(e) (d) A member shall not receive compensation, but each member shall be reimbursed for the member’s reasonable and necessary expenses in connection with service on the committee.

1. Arguments in support. This bill’s sponsors, Disability Rights Advocates, write that full participation in outdoor spaces remains a systemic issue and that this bill will provide a “critical step toward rectifying these longstanding inequities by establishing an advisory body dedicated to improving accessibility in our state’s parks and coastal areas.” They also note the health benefits from nature-based recreation. California Outdoor Recreation Partnership also notes that the AAC is a natural and needed extension of the state’s Outdoors For All initiative. Several letters also cite the value in having more accessible public spaces to discourage stereotypes and misconceptions that individuals with disabilities are not interested in enjoying nature.
2. Related legislation. AB 1150 (Committee on Water, Park, and Wildlife) Chapter 831, Statutes of 2023, allows State Parks, through January 1, 2029, to enter into community access agreements with eligible entities to provide interpretive services and visitor services at units of the state parks system to underserved park users

SB 1608 (Corbett), Chapter 549, Statutes of 2008, established CCDA.

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

Disability Rights California (sponsor)
BORP Adapted Sports and Recreation
California Outdoor Recreation Partnership
California State Council on Developmental Disabilities
Disabled Hikers
Nature Collective
The Coelho Center for Disability Law, Policy, and Innovation

Four individuals

Opposition

None on file

Analysis Prepared by: Stephanie Mitchell / W., P., & W. / (916) 319-2096