Existing law requires the Department of Parks and Recreation to issue a park pass for free use of all park facilities in the state park system to a veteran of war in which the United States has been, or may be, engaged, who is a resident of this state, who presents to the department proof of a disability, proof of being held captive as a prisoner of war, or proof of being a recipient of a Congressional Medal of Honor, and proof of an honorable discharge from service.

This bill would require an eligible Gold Star Family member, as defined, upon presentation of proof to the department, to be issued a pass for free day use of any unit of the state park system that is operated by the state. use of all facilities, including boat launching facilities, in units of the state park system.

Existing law requires the Department of Parks and Recreation to issue a park pass for free use of all park facilities in the state park system to a veteran of war in which the United States has been, or may be, engaged, who is a resident of this state, who presents to the department proof of a disability, proof of being held captive as a prisoner of war, or proof of being a recipient of a Congressional Medal of Honor, and proof of an honorable discharge from service.

This bill would require an eligible Gold Star Family member, as defined, upon presentation of proof to the department, to be issued a pass for free day use of any unit of the state park system that is operated by the state.

Date of Hearing: August 20, 2025

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

Buffy Wicks, Chair

SBPCA Bill Id:SB 55

Author:(Umberg) – As Amended Ver:March 26, 2025

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

SUMMARY:

This bill requires the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), upon presentation of proof, to issue a pass to an “eligible Gold Star Family member,” as defined, entitling the bearer to the use of all facilities, including boat launching facilities, in units of the state park system. The bill requires State Parks to adopt regulations, as necessary, to implement the bill.

FISCAL EFFECT:

1) State Parks estimates one-time General Fund costs of roughly $200,000 to promulgate regulations and ongoing annual General Fund costs of about $107,000 for one position in its pass office to accommodate the increased workload associated with administering the new pass. While State Parks already offers a number of discounted passes, the department notes it cannot accommodate the additional workload this bill will generate within existing resources, particularly since the bill entitles eligible pass-holders to free camping and boat launching benefits that the department contends will be fairly popular and require eligibility validation.

2) State Parks estimates this bill could result in increased park visitation with annual General Fund costs of roughly $3.5 million to support additional staffing and increased operations and maintenance (O&M) needs and capital improvements at state park units. State Parks notes its estimate is based on the increased O&M costs associated with the California State Library Parks Pass, which offers vehicle day-use entry to over 200 participating state park units to library card holders. This bill offers pass-holders access to a greater universe of state park facilities.

3) Forgone annual revenue of an unknown amount (State Parks and Recreation Fund (SPRF)) resulting from free use of all facilities in units of the state park system that would otherwise require payment of fees from park and park facility users. This committee is unable to verify the number of eligible Gold Star Family members in the state.

According to a February 2024 Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) report, the LAO projects the SPRF will face an annual gap of approximately $15 million between its estimated revenues and projected expenditures in each of the next few years. This structural deficit would cause SPRF to become insolvent by fiscal year (FY) 2028‑29. See below for more details.

COMMENTS:

1) Purpose. According to the author:

Currently, California law offers free state park access to certain veterans, and the federal government extends similar benefits to Gold Star Families for national parks and public lands. However, our state has yet to extend this recognition at the state level. By passing [this bill], we align California with several other states that already provide this benefit, ensuring that Gold Star Families have access to outdoor spaces that can offer healing, reflection, and recreation.

2) Background. Gold Star Families. A Gold Star Family is next of kin of a member of the U.S. Armed Forces who lost their life in a “qualifying situation,” such as a war, an international terrorist attack, or a military operation outside of the U.S. while serving with the U.S. Armed Forces. According to the Gold Star Family Registry, which is “the first comprehensive database of the United States’ fallen Heroes,” since World War II, 32,448 California residents have lost their lives in the line of duty. Since not all Gold Star Family members are residents of the same state as their deceased loved ones, it is unclear how many California residents would qualify for free park access under this bill.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue Gold Star Family specialized license plates for vehicles owned by eligible Gold Star Family members. According to the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee’s analysis of this bill, as of February 4, 2025, the DMV had issued 636 Gold Star Family license plates. This may be the closest proxy for the number of Gold Star Family members that might be interested in accessing parks under the pass this bill establishes. Additionally, the popularity of the distinguished veterans pass (see below) has been increasing over the last few years with 7,146 issued in 2024.

The National Park Service offers a free lifetime Military Pass to Gold Star Families and U.S. military veterans and a free annual Military Pass to current U.S. military members and their dependents. The passes provide free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests.

This bill is sponsored by the organization Sons and Daughters in Touch (representing Gold Star children from the Vietnam War), which argues that individuals utilizing free park admission are likely to spend money on additional and ancillary services once they’re in the park – potentially offsetting foregone fee revenue for State Parks.

Other Discounted Passes. In addition to the aforementioned library parks pass (which most recently received $6.75 million General Fund in the FY 2025-26 budget), State Parks offers several other discounted or free park admission opportunities for specific populations. Eligibility criteria and levels of park access vary across these passes. Examples include the disabled discount pass for persons with permanent disabilities; the golden bear pass for low-income individuals; the senior golden bear pass for people 62 years of age and older; the adventure pass for fourth graders and their families; the distinguished veterans pass for honorably discharged veterans who meet certain criteria; and free park admission to eligible veterans and military personnel on Veterans Day and Memorial Day.

State Park and Recreation Fund. The SPRF is the department’s primary ongoing funding source and is mostly supported by user fees. According to the LAO, in recent years, for a variety of reasons, yearly expenditures from the SPRF have exceeded its typical level of annual revenues. During the pandemic, the General Fund provided $114 million in one‑time support to offset anticipated reductions in revenues resulting from park closures. However, this and other one-time transfers have not addressed the long‑term trends affecting the solvency of the SPRF.

While increasing park access is a laudable goal, generating sufficient, long-term sources of funding for State Parks operations and maintenance has been an ongoing challenge, raising the question of how far the state should go in discounting fees. The more the state discounts fees, the more the state will need to offset lost revenues with the General Fund or cut or eliminate other improvements, services, and programs. This is particularly relevant as State Parks’ large backlog of deferred maintenance is estimated at over $1 billion. In addition, several state park properties have been devastated by recent wildfires, further reducing revenue streams as well as requiring costly repairs.

The Department of Finance is opposed to this bill, stating “Notwithstanding the merits of this bill and alignment with the Administration’s Outdoors for All initiative, this bill creates significant ongoing General Fund pressures.”

3) Prior Legislation. AB 308 (Alanis), of the 2023-24 Legislative Session, was substantially similar to this bill. AB 308 was held on this committee’s suspense file.

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

Date of Hearing: July 15, 2025

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS

Pilar Schiavo, Chair

SBPCA Bill Id:SB 55

Author:(Umberg) – As Amended Ver:March 26, 2025

SENATE VOTE: 38-0

SUBJECT: State parks: facilities pass: Gold Star Family members.

SUMMARY: Requires the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), upon presentation of eligibility, to issue a pass to a Gold Star Family member entitling the bearer to the use of all facilities in the State Park system. Specifically, this bill:

1. Requires the State Parks, upon presentation of eligibility, to issue a pass to a Gold Star Family member entitling the bearer to the use of all facilities, including boat launching facilities, in units of the State Park system.
2. Defines, for the purposes of this bill, “eligible Gold Star Family member” as a person who is both a resident of California and is eligible to receive a Gold Star Lapel Button that identifies them as the next of kin of a service member who died under specific conditions, including during World War I, World War II, or other periods of armed hostilities, or while engaged in actions against an enemy or military operations involving conflict with a foreign force.
3. Requires the State Parks to adopt regulations to implement this bill.

EXISTING LAW:

1. Establishes the California state park system and vests State Parks with control of the state park system and responsibility for administering, protecting, developing, and interpreting state parks for the use and enjoyment of the public. Requires State Parks to protect the state park system from damage and to preserve the peace therein. [Public Resources Code (PRC) § 5001 et seq.]
2. Limits attendance at the state park system to within the limits established by carrying capacity. (PRC § 5001.96, § 5019.5)
3. Authorizes State Parks to collect fees, rents, and returns for use of any state park system area with some exceptions, including:
   1. Prohibits State Parks from collecting any fee from students in kindergarten through 12^th grade on a school outing; (PRC § 5010.2)
   2. Authorizes State Parks to provide discounted passes to certain groups of people, including fourth graders, seniors over the age of 62, disabled persons, and low-income residents, as defined; and, (PRC § 5010.2.5, § 5011)
   3. Authorizes State Parks to issue a reduced-fee or free day-use permit to veterans, active duty military, and reserve military personnel on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. (PRC § 5011.5, § 5011.6)
4. Allows the California Department of Veterans Affairs to sponsor a Gold Star Family specialized license plate program and issue a license plate for a vehicle owned by an eligible Gold Star Family member. (Vehicle Code § 5156)
5. Requires the National Park and Federal Recreational Lands Pass to be made available, at no charge, for the lifetime of the pass holder, to any member of a Gold Star family who meets the eligibility requirements of section 3.2 of Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36, and other listed persons. (U.S. Code Title 16 § 6804)
6. Requires the U.S. Secretary of Defense to be responsible for designing and establishing procedures for distributing the Gold Star Lapel Button. Specifies that the Gold Star Lapel Button is to identify the next of kin (widows, parents, and other close relatives) of service members who died under the following circumstances:
   1. Loss of life during World War I, World War II, or other periods of armed conflict before July 1, 1958; or,
      
   2. Loss of life after June 30, 1958, while engaged in action against an enemy, in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force, or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in conflict where the U.S. is not a belligerent. (U.S. Code Title 10 § 1126)

FISCAL EFFECT: According to the Senate Appropriations Committee:

1. State Parks estimates one-time costs of roughly $200,000 (General Fund (GF)) to promulgate regulations, and ongoing costs of about $100,000 annually (GF) for an additional position in the Pass Office to accommodate the increased workload associated with administering this new pass.
2. State Parks estimates this bill could result in increased park visitation with annual GF implications of roughly $3.5 million to support increased operations and maintenance costs.
3. Forgone revenue of an unknown but potentially significant amount (State Parks and Recreation Fund) due to free day passes, camping, and boat launching facilities provided by this bill that would otherwise require payment of a fee from park users.

COMMENTS:

1. PURPOSE OF THIS BILL. The author is committed to ensuring that California honors the immense sacrifices made by Gold Star Families who have endured the profound loss of a loved one who gave their life in service to our country. This bill aims to offer a small but meaningful gesture of gratitude by providing Gold Star Family members with free access to California State Parks. Currently, California and the federal government provide free access to State Parks, National Parks, and public lands to certain veterans. The federal government offers the same access to Gold Star Families, but the state does not. According to the author, this bill will align California with several other states that already provide this benefit, ensuring that Gold Star Families have access to outdoor spaces that offer healing, reflection, and recreation. The author explains that this bill represents more than just access; it is a commitment to honoring sacrifices, promoting mental health, and affirming California's support for families who have lost loved ones in service to our country. The author strongly encourages support for this bill as a meaningful tribute to those families.
2. BACKGROUND. There are 280 park units (including beaches, historic sites, museums, off-highway vehicle recreation areas, parks, and more) in the state park system. At most parks, day-use fees are charged for vehicle use only, with no charge for walking or biking into the parks. Most historical parks and museums charge a day-use fee per person.
   1. Discounted passes. State Parks offers several forms of discounted passes. These include a Disabled Discount Pass ($3.50), a California State Parks Golden Bear Pass for low-income individuals (no cost), a California State Parks Senior Golden Bear Pass ($20), and a Distinguished Veteran Pass (no cost). Distinguished veterans are considered honorably discharged war veterans with 50% or greater service-connected disability, individuals held as prisoners of war, or recipients of the Medal of Honor. There are also two free entry programs, including:
      1. The California State Parks Adventure Pass that provides free entry for fourth graders and their families at 19 state parks throughout the state; and,
      2. The California State Parks Library Pass that provides free passes to every public library throughout the state, so library patrons can check out passes for free vehicle day-use access to parks across the state. All free and discounted passes are generally provided by a pass, with the exception that active-duty and reserve military personnel, as well as veterans, receive free entry to most park units upon proof of service on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
   2. Gold Star Families. The term "Gold Star Family" originated from the Service Flag tradition established during World War I, where a blue star represented each family member serving in the Armed Forces. If a service member died while serving, the blue star would be replaced with a gold star to signify the ultimate sacrifice.
      
      A Gold Star Family refers to those who have lost an immediate family member in active-duty military service. Those who die in service to their country leave behind parents, siblings, spouses, children, and extended families. The title is meant to honor the service member’s ultimate sacrifice while acknowledging their family’s loss, grief, and continued healing journey. According to a 2019 Military Times article, since 9/11, more than 16,000 troops have died in non-combat circumstances, and more than 7,000 have died in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars alone. There are also thousands of living Gold Star Family members who lost loved ones in both World Wars, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts. While the nation may not be engaged in a worldwide conflict, with over 1.3 million active military personnel, many families may still be mourning the loss of a loved one, and acknowledging their sacrifice is a meaningful way to offer support and honor the fallen soldiers.
   3. By the numbers. According to the Gold Star Family Registry, which is “the first comprehensive database of the United States’ fallen Heroes,” since World War II, 32,447 California residents have lost their lives in the line of duty. Since not all Gold Star Family members live in the same state as their deceased loved ones, it is unclear how many California residents would qualify for a no-cost lifetime license.
      
      The California Department of Veterans Affairs authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue Gold Star Family specialized license plates for vehicles owned by eligible Gold Star Family members (Vehicle Code § 5156). According to the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee analysis of this bill, as of February 4, 2025, the DMV has issued 636 Gold Star Family license plates. This may be the closest proxy for the number of individuals who might be interested in accessing parks. Additionally, the popularity of the Distinguished Veterans Pass has been increasing over the last few years, with 7,146 issued in 2024.
3. SUPPORT. Sons and Daughters In Touch, sponsor of this bill, writes that while the National Park Service now offers a similar benefit to Gold Star Families, only a very few of the 50 states and territories have enacted such a program. Gold Star Families, who lost loved ones serving in hostile areas, will see this gesture as California's tribute to their sacrifices. American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. writes in support of this bill, noting that less than 9% of the nation's population has served in the military, with fewer than 1% currently serving. It is both just and right to support these courageous individuals who uphold our freedoms. In 2022, the Department of the Interior expressed appreciation for Gold Star Families and veterans by providing them with lifetime free access to over 2,000 National Parks. This bill supports this initiative to encourage more Gold Star visitors to California’s parks, with potential revenue losses being compensated through increased spending on concessions and services. Time spent outdoors eases depression and anxiety, and lessens stress. A visit to one of California's parks is nature's tonic for Gold Star Families. California's Park System, granting free entry, would not only honor their loss but also effectively help to reconcile grief, as our heroes live on in our minds and hearts.
4. PREVIOUS LEGISLATION.
   1. AB 308 (Alanis) of 2024 was substantially similar to this bill. AB 308 was held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
   2. AB 2128 (Cooley) of 2022 would have required State Parks to grant 50% discounted admission to the general public to each unit of the state park system operated by State Parks every year on September 9th, California Admissions Day. AB 2128 was held in the Senate Appropriations Committee.
   3. AB 1358 (Cooley) of 2018 would have provided 50% discounted admission to California State Parks on California Admission Day. Governor Brown vetoed AB 1358. The veto message stated: “While this bill is well-intentioned, the department already has the authority to offer discounted or free park admissions to the public. Furthermore, for the past few years, the department has worked closely with the Parks Forward Commission to develop initiatives to expand visitations, increase access, and ensure the system's long-term sustainability. The public and our state parks are better served by allowing the department the flexibility to manage its operations without mandates that may harm its fiscal stability.”
   4. AB 240 (Wilk) of 2015 would have allowed free day-use entry to State Parks for vehicles with specialized license plates for veterans who are high military honor recipients and Gold Star families. AB 240 was held in Senate Appropriations.
5. DOUBLE REFERRAL. This bill is double referred, it passed the Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee with a vote of 10-0 on June 17, 2025.

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

Sons and Daughters in Touch (sponsor)
American Gold STAR Mothers, INC.
American Legion, Department of California
Amvets, Department of California
California Association of County Veterans Service Officers
California State Commanders Veterans Council
East Bay Regional Park District
Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters
Orange; County of
Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

Opposition

None on file.

Analysis Prepared by: Patty Patten / M. & V.A. / (916) 319-3550

Date of Hearing: June 17, 2025

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON WATER, PARKS, AND WILDLIFE

Diane Papan, Chair

SBPCA Bill Id:SB 55

Author:(Umberg) – As Amended Ver:March 26, 2025

SENATE VOTE: 38-0

SUBJECT: State parks: facilities pass: Gold Star Family members

SUMMARY: Requires the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), upon presentation of eligibility, to issue a pass to a Gold Star Family member for use of all facilities in units of the state park system. Specifically, this bill:

1. Defines eligible Gold Star Family members as a person who is:
   1. A resident of California; and
   2. Eligible to receive a Gold Star Lapel Button.
2. Authorizes State Parks to adopt regulations to implement this bill.

EXISTING LAW:

1. Establishes the California state park system and vests State Parks with control of the state park system and responsibility for administering, protecting, developing, and interpreting state parks for the use and enjoyment of the public. Requires State Parks to protect the state park system from damage and to preserve the peace therein [Public Resources Code (PRC) § 5001 et seq.].
2. Limits attendance at the state park system to within the limits established by carrying capacity (PRC § 5001.96, § 5019.5).
3. Authorizes State Parks to collect fees, rents, and returns for use of any state park system area with some exceptions including:
   1. Prohibits State Parks from collecting any fee from students in kindergarten through 12^th grade on a school outing (PRC § 5010.2);
   2. Authorizes State Parks to provide discounted passes to certain groups of people including fourth graders, seniors over the age of 62, disabled persons, and low-income residents, as defined (PRC § 5010.2.5, § 5011); and
   3. Authorizes State Parks to issue a reduced-fee or free day-use permit to veterans, active duty military, and reserve military personnel on Memorial Day and Veterans Day (PRC § 5011.5, § 5011.6).
4. Allows the Department of Veterans Affairs to sponsor a Gold Star Family specialized license plate program and issue a license plate for a vehicle owned by an eligible Gold Star Family member (Vehicle Code § 5156).
5. Requires the National Park and Federal Recreational Lands Pass to be made available, at no charge, for the lifetime of the pass holder, to any member of a Gold Star family who meets the eligibility requirements of section 3.2 of Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36, and other listed persons (U.S. Code Title 16 § 6804).

FISCAL EFFECT: Unknown. This bill is keyed fiscal.

COMMENTS:

1. Purpose of this bill. According to the author, “Currently, California law offers free state park access to certain veterans, and the federal government extends similar benefits to Gold Star Families for national parks and public lands. However, our state has yet to extend this recognition at the state level. By passing [this bill], we align California with several other states that already provide this benefit, ensuring that Gold Star Families have access to outdoor spaces that can offer healing, reflection, and recreation.

[This bill] is not just about access—it’s about honoring sacrifice, supporting mental well-being, and demonstrating that California stands with those who have lost loved ones in service to our nation. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and help us provide a lasting tribute to the families who have given so much.”

1. Background. There are 280 park units (beaches, historic sites, museums, off-highway vehicle recreation areas, parks, etc.) in the state park system. At most parks, day use fees are charged for vehicle day use only with no charge to walk or bike into the parks. Most historical parks and museums charge a day use fee per person.

Discounted passes. State Parks offers several forms of discounted pass. These include a Disabled Discount Pass ($3.50), a California State Parks Golden Bear Pass for low income individuals (no cost), a California State Parks Senior Golden Bear Pass ($20), and a Distinguished Veteran Pass (no cost). Distinguished veterans are considered honorably discharged war veterans with 50% or greater service-connected disability, individuals held as prisoners of war, or recipients of the Medal of Honor. There are also two free entry programs including the (1) California State Parks Adventure Pass that provides free entry for fourth graders and their families at 19 state parks throughout the state and (2) the California State Parks Library Pass that provides free passes to every public library throughout the state so library patrons can check out passes for free vehicle day-use access to parks across the state. All free and discounted passes are generally provided by a pass, with the exception being that active duty and reserve military personnel and veterans receive free entry to most park units upon proof of service on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

Gold Star Families. The phrase “Gold Star Family” dates back to World War I when military families displayed service flags featuring a blue star for every immediate family member serving in the Armed Forces. If the Service member died in the line of duty, the blue star was changed to gold and eligible next of kin received a gold star lapel button in adherence to the U.S. Department of Defense guidelines. According to Section 1126 of Title 10 of the United States Code, service members who lost their life during World War I, World War II, while engaged in action against opposing foreign forces, or as a result of an international terrorist attack or as a part of a peace keeping force, may qualify for a Gold Star Lapel Button.

By the numbers. According to the Gold Star Family Registry, which is “the first comprehensive database of the United States’ fallen Heroes,” since World War II, 32,447 California residents have lost their lives in the line of duty. Since not all Gold Star Family members are residents of the same state as their deceased loved ones, it is unclear how many California residents would qualify to receive a no-cost lifetime license.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue Gold Star Family specialized license plates for vehicles owned by eligible Gold Star Family members (Vehicle Code § 5156). According to the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee analysis of this bill, as of February 4, 2025, the DMV has issued 636 Gold Star Family license plates. This may be the closest proxy for the number of individuals that might be interested in accessing parks.

Additionally, the popularity of the Distinguished Veterans Pass has been increasing over the last few years with 7,146 issued in 2024.

1. Policy considerations. According to the author, this bill will honor the sacrifice of Gold Star Families and provide additional access to therapeutic outdoor activities. Generally, time spent outdoors is believed to reduce stress and improve mental health.

While the fiscal impact of this bill is outside the scope of this committee’s jurisdiction, given previous legislative efforts aimed at stabilizing State Parks’ revenues, a broad-based, discounted fee day may run counter to the continued implementation of those reforms, as day-use fees are important to the financial stability of the park system. However, a reduced fee day could be viewed as complementary to other policies that encourage access to parks, which has been a priority for the Legislature in recent years. Additionally, free day use may encourage additional spending. According to data from the 2007–2009 Visitor Survey Report commissioned by State Parks, park visitors spend on average $80.85 per visit, including $31.32 within a 25 mile radius of the park and $49.53 outside the 25-mile radius. Extrapolating from the 26 studied parks to park units statewide, state park visitors annually spend an estimated $6 billion.^[1]

1. Arguments in support. Sons and Daughters in Touch (sponsor) write that “Gold Star Families […] will embrace this gesture as a sign that California honors their families’ sacrifices.” Other organizations agree that this bill is “one of the ways a grateful state can honor those who gave their lives to protect our freedoms.”
2. Double referral. This bill is also referred to the Assembly Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.
3. Related legislation. AB 308 (Alanis) of 2024 was substantially similar to this bill. AB 308 was held in Assembly Appropriations Committee.

AB 2128 (Cooley) of 2022 would have required State Parks to grant 50% discounted admission to the general public to each unit of the state park system operated by State Parks every year on September 9th, California Admissions Day. AB 2128 was held in Senate Appropriations Committee.

AB 1358 (Cooley) of 2018 would have provided 50% discounted admission to California State Parks on California Admission Day. AB 1358 was vetoed by Governor Brown. The veto message stated: “While this bill is well-intentioned, the department already has the authority to offer discounted or free park admissions to the public. Furthermore, for the past few years the department has worked closely with the Parks Forward Commission to develop initiatives to expand visitations, increase access, and ensure the system's long-term sustainability. The public and our state parks are better served by allowing the department the flexibility to manage its operations without mandates that may harm its fiscal stability.”

AB 240 (Wilk) of 2015 would have allowed free day use entry to state park to vehicles with specialized licenses plates for veterans who are high military honor recipients and Gold Star families. AB 240 was held in Senate Appropriations.

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

Sons and Daughters in Touch (Sponsor)
American Gold STAR Mothers, INC.
American Legion, Department of California
AMVETS, Department of California
California Association of County Veterans Service Officers
California State Commanders Veterans Council
East Bay Regional Park District
Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters
Orange County Board of Supervisors
Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

Opposition

None on file

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

1. Litzky, K. “California state parks: economic impact of visitor expenditures” Master of Public Policy and Administration, California State University, 2010. ↑

 THIRD READING  

Bill No: SB 55

Author: Umberg (D), et al.

Amended: 3/26/25

Vote: 21

SENATE NATURAL RES. & WATER COMMITTEE: 7-0, 3/25/25

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

SENATE MILITARY & VETERANS COMMITTEE: 4-0, 4/28/25

AYES: Archuleta, McNerney, Menjivar, Umberg

NO VOTE RECORDED: Grove

SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: 6-0, 5/23/25

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

NO VOTE RECORDED: Dahle

SUBJECT: State parks: facilities pass: Gold Star Family members

SOURCE: Sons and Daughters in Touch

DIGEST:

This bill requires the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to issue a pass for use of all facilities, including boat launching facilities, in units of the state park system, to an eligible Gold Star Family member, as defined.

ANALYSIS:

Existing Law:

1. Offers, for a five-dollar fee, an annual “Golden Bear Pass” to those receiving aid from certain social service programs and low-income seniors, allowing them free access to day-use facilities in the State Parks system (Public Resources Code (PRC) §5011).
2. Offers to veterans, upon certain conditions, a pass for free use of all State Parks facilities, including boat launches (PRC §5011.5).
3. Authorizes State Parks to offer a reduced fee or free day-use of State Parks to veterans and active duty military personnel on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

This bill:

1. Requires State Parks to issue a pass to all facilities in the units of the State Parks system, including boat launching facilities, to eligible Gold Star Family members.
2. Defines “eligible Gold Star Family member” for this purpose, as specified.
3. Authorizes State Parks to adopt regulations to implement this program.

Background

State Parks offers a number of annual passes to the general public for a fee. There are five passes offering free or discounted entry to State Park units on an annual or per-visit basis:

• Adventure Pass – offers free entry to 54 state parks to fourth graders and their families, valid for September 1 to August 31 of the child’s fourth grade year.
• Disabled Discount Pass – for $3.50, offers a lifetime pass to persons with permanent disabilities entitling the bearer to a 50% discount on vehicle day-use, family camping, and boat-use fees at over 100 park units.
• Distinguished Veterans Pass – offers a free lifetime pass for vehicle day use, family camping, and boat use at over 100 park units to veterans meeting certain criteria.
• Veterans and active duty military can also receive a reduced fee or free day use at state parks units operated by the state and accessible with a vehicle day use annual pass on Memorial Day and Veterans Day (PRC §5011.6).
• Golden Bear Pass - offers social services recipients and low income seniors a pass for free vehicle day use access, valid for a calendar year.
• Senior Golden Bear Pass – for $20, offers individuals 62 and over with free entry to many state parks during non-peak seasons, valid for a calendar year.

There are two “full price” annual state parks passes.

• The Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass is valid for one year and provides vehicle entrance to 134 state parks for $195.
• The Golden Poppy Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass is valid for one year and provides vehicle entrance to 112 state parks for $125.

Gold Star Families.According to Section 1126 of Title 10 of the United States Code, service members who lost their life during World War I, World War II, while engaged in action against opposing foreign forces, or as a result of an international terrorist attack or as a part of a peace keeping force may qualify for a Gold Star Lapel Button that their next of kin may wear or display. According to Section 553.36 of Title 32 of the Code of Federal Regulations, ‘next of kin’ is defined as the spouse, children (natural, step, adopted), parents (natural, step, adopted), siblings (natural, half, adopted), and grandparents of a service member who lost their life in a qualifying situation. The Gold Star Lapel Button definition of ‘next of kin’ is different and is based on the definition in the U.S. Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36. The U.S. Department of Defense Instruction does not include grandparents.

National Lands and other states. In 2022, the National Defense Authorization Act authorized a free lifetime pass to national parks and other federal recreation lands for eligible Veteran and Gold Star Families. Eligible veterans are those who served in the Armed Forces, National Guard, and/or Reserves, and Gold Star Families are next of kin of a member of the Armed Forces who lost their life in certain “qualifying situations” (section 3.2 U. S. Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36). New Jersey and Maine exempt Gold Star Families from state park admission and facility fees.

Comments

Difficulty quantifying potential pass use. According to the Gold Star Family Registry, which is “the first comprehensive data base of the United States’ fallen Heroes,” since World War II, 32,448 California residents have lost their lives in the line of duty. Since not all Gold Star Family members are residents of the same state as their deceased loved ones, it is still unclear how many California residents would qualify to receive a no-cost pass.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue Gold Star Family specialized license plates for vehicles owned by eligible Gold Star Family members (Vehicle Code § 5156). Both departments use the same definition of qualifying situation and qualified family members as the Code of Federal Regulations, with the exception of including grandchildren. As of February 4, 2025, the DMV has issued 636 Gold Star Family vehicle license plates. This may be the closest proxy for the number of individuals that might be interested in accessing parks.

[NOTE: See the Senate Natural Resources and Water, and Military and Veteran Affairs Committees’ analyses for additional information regarding this bill.]

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

According to the Senate Appropriations Committee:

• State Parks estimates one-time costs of roughly $200,000 (General Fund) to promulgate regulations, and ongoing costs of about $100,000 annually (General Fund) for an additional position in the Pass Office to accommodate the increased workload associated with administering this new pass.
• State Parks estimates this bill could result in increased park visitation with annual General Fund implications of roughly $3.5 million to support increased operations and maintenance costs.
• Foregone revenue of an unknown but potentially significant amount (State Parks and Recreation Fund) due to free day passes, camping, and boat launching facilities provided by this bill that would otherwise require payment of a fee from park users.

SUPPORT: (Verified 5/23/25)

Sons and Daughters in Touch (source)

American Gold STAR Mothers, INC.
American Legion, Department of California
Amvets, Department of California
California Association of County Veterans Service Officers
California State Commanders Veterans Council
East Bay Regional Park District
Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters
Orange County
Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

OPPOSITION: (Verified 5/23/25)

None received

ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: According to the author, “Gold Star family members have had to experience the extreme trauma and grief of losing a loved one in the line of duty. This is an effective way to show gratitude to military

personnel and their families for their service to the United States. Spending time outside is generally believed to improve mental health and allowing free access to state parks can provide an outlet for grief and other negative feelings.”

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

5/25/25 12:48:52

**** END ****

SENATE COMMITTEE ON

Senator Anna Caballero, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular Session

SB 55 (Umberg) - State parks: facilities pass: Gold Star Family members

Bill Summary:

This bill would require the California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to provide an eligible Gold Star Family member with a pass to free day use of any unit of the state park system operated by the state.

Fiscal Impact:

• State Parks estimates one-time costs of roughly $200,000 (General Fund) to promulgate regulations, and ongoing costs of about $100,000 annually (General Fund) for an additional position in the Pass Office to accommodate the increased workload associated with administering this new pass.
• State Parks estimates this bill could result in increased park visitation with annual General Fund implications of roughly $3.5 million to support increased operations and maintenance costs.
• Forgone revenue of an unknown but potentially significant amount (State Parks and Recreation Fund) due to free day passes, camping, and boat launching facilities provided by this bill that would otherwise require payment of a fee from park users.

Background:

According to the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), the State Park System consists of 280 state park units, over 340 miles of coastline, 970 miles of lake and river frontage, 15,000 campsites, 5,200 miles of trails, 3,195 historic buildings and more than 11,000 known prehistoric and historic archaeological sites; the largest and most diverse recreational, natural and cultural heritage holdings of any state agency in the nation. More than 68 million people annually visit California’s State Park System.

State Parks offers a number of annual passes to the general public for a fee. There are five passes offering free or discounted entry to State Park units on an annual or per-visit basis:

• Adventure Pass – offers free entry to 54 state parks to fourth graders and their families, valid for September 1 to August 31 of the child’s fourth grade year.
• Disabled Discount Pass – for $3.50, offers a lifetime pass to persons with permanent disabilities entitling the bearer to a 50% discount on vehicle day-use, family camping, and boat-use fees at over 100 park units.
• Distinguished Veterans Pass – offers a free lifetime pass for vehicle day use, family camping, and boat use at over 100 park units to veterans meeting certain criteria.
  • Veterans and active duty military can also receive a reduced fee or free day use at state parks units operated by the state and accessible with a vehicle day use annual pass on Memorial Day and Veterans Day (Public Resources Code (PRC) §5011.6).
• Golden Bear Pass - offers social services recipients and low income seniors a pass for free vehicle day use access, valid for a calendar year.
• Senior Golden Bear Pass – for $20, offers individuals 62 and over with free entry to many state parks during non-peak seasons, valid for a calendar year.

Gold Star Families: According to the Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife analysis of AB 308 (Alanis, 2023), the phrase “Gold Star Family” dates back to World War I when military families displayed service flags featuring a blue star for every immediate family member serving in the Armed Forces. If the Service member died in the line of duty, the blue star was changed to gold and eligible next of kin receive a gold star lapel button in adherence to the U.S. Department of Defense guidelines. According to Section 1126 of Title 10 of the United States Code, service members who lost their life during World War I, World War II, while engaged in action against opposing foreign forces, or as a result of an international terrorist attack or as a part of a peace keeping force may qualify for a Gold Star Lapel Button that their next of kin may wear or display. According to Section 553.36 of Title 32 of the Code of Federal Regulations, ‘next of kin’ is defined as the spouse, children (natural, step, adopted), parents (natural, step, adopted), siblings (natural, half, adopted), and grandparents of a service member who lost their life in a qualifying situation. The Gold Star Lapel Button definition of ‘next of kin’ is different and is based on the definition in the U.S. Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36. The U.S. Department of Defense Instruction does not include grandparents.

According to the Gold Star Family Registry, which is “the first comprehensive data base of the United States’ fallen Heroes,” since World War II, 32,448 California residents have lost their lives in the line of duty. Since not all Gold Star Family members are residents of the same state as their deceased loved ones, it is still unclear how many California residents would qualify to receive a no-cost pass.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue Gold Star Family specialized license plates for vehicles owned by eligible Gold Star Family members (Vehicle Code § 5156). Both departments use the same definition of qualifying situation and qualified family members as the Code of Federal Regulations, with the exception of including grandchildren. As of February 4, 2025, the DMV has issued 636 Gold Star Family vehicle license plates. This may be the closest proxy for the number of individuals that might be interested in accessing parks.

Proposed Law:

This bill would allow an eligible Gold Star Family member a pass entitling the bearer to the use of all facilities, including boat launching facilities, in units of the state park system.

Related Legislation:

Previous bills have proposed this idea. AB 308 (Alanis), from the 2023-24 regular session, which is identical to this bill, was held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee on the Suspense File.

Staff Comments:

This bill is likely to result in increased visitation and use of state park units and facilities, which would come with a need for more funding to support additional staffing, maintenance, and capital improvements at state park units. This could be exacerbated by the fact that certain federal parks, facing staffing shortages, have closed or limited their operating hours, which will likely result in an increase in state parks visitation. Staff notes that State Parks has a $1 billion deferred maintenance backlog.

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SENATE COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS

Senator Bob Archuleta, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular

Bill No: SB 55 Hearing Date: 4/28/25

Subject: State parks: facilities pass: Gold Star Family members

DESCRIPTION

Summary:

Requires the California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to provide an eligible Gold Star Family member with a pass to free day use of any unit of the state park system operated by the state.

Existing law:

Requires the Department of Parks and Recreation to issue a park pass for free use of all park facilities in the state park system to a veteran of war in which the United States has been, or may be, engaged, who is a resident of this state, who presents to the department proof of a disability, proof of being held captive as a prisoner of war, or proof of being a recipient of a Congressional Medal of Honor, and proof of an honorable discharge from service.

This bill:

Allows an eligible Gold Star Family member a pass entitling the bearer to the use of all facilities, including boat launching facilities, in units of the state park system.

BACKGROUND

According to the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), the State Park System consists of 280 state park units, over 340 miles of coastline, 970 miles of lake and river frontage, 15,000 campsites, 5,200 miles of trails, 3,195 historic buildings and more than 11,000 known prehistoric and historic archaeological sites; the largest and most diverse recreational, natural and cultural heritage holdings of any state agency in the nation. More than 68 million people annually visit California’s State Park System.

State Parks offers a number of annual passes to the general public for a fee. There are five passes offering free or discounted entry to State Park units on an annual or per-visit basis:

• Adventure Pass – offers free entry to 54 state parks to fourth graders and their families, valid for September 1 to August 31 of the child’s fourth grade year.
• Disabled Discount Pass – for $3.50, offers a lifetime pass to persons with permanent disabilities entitling the bearer to a 50% discount on vehicle day-use, family camping, and boat-use fees at over 100 park units.
• Distinguished Veterans Pass – offers a free lifetime pass for vehicle day use, family camping, and boat use at over 100 park units to veterans meeting certain criteria.
  • Veterans and active duty military can also receive a reduced fee or free day use at state parks units operated by the state and accessible with a vehicle day use annual pass on Memorial Day and Veterans Day (Public Resources Code (PRC) §5011.6).
• Golden Bear Pass - offers social services recipients and low income seniors a pass for free vehicle day use access, valid for a calendar year.
• Senior Golden Bear Pass – for $20, offers individuals 62 and over with free entry to many state parks during non-peak seasons, valid for a calendar year.

COMMENT

A pass for free use of state parks is also available to distinguished veterans. Those who are veterans of a war, residents of the state of California, have proof of an honorable discharge, and can present proof of disability, having been held captive during service, or a Medal of Honor, are eligible to receive a free pass to California State parks.

Gold Star family members have had to experience the extreme trauma and grief of losing a loved one in the line of duty. Honoring our nation’s fallen military members with free parks access for their family members aligns California’s values.

According to the author:

I am committed to ensuring that California honors the immense sacrifices made by Gold Star Families. These families have endured the profound loss of a loved one who gave their life in service to our country. SB 55 seeks to provide a small but meaningful gesture of gratitude by granting Gold Star Family members free access to California state parks.

Currently, California law offers free state park access to certain veterans, and the federal government extends similar benefits to Gold Star Families for national parks and public lands. However, our state has yet to extend this recognition at the state level. By passing SB 55, we align California with several other states that already provide this benefit, ensuring that Gold Star Families have access to outdoor spaces that can offer healing, reflection, and recreation.

SB 55 is not just about access—it’s about honoring sacrifice, supporting mental well-being, and demonstrating that California stands with those who have lost loved ones in service to our nation.

POSITIONS

Sponsor: Author.

Support: American Gold STAR Mothers, INC.
American Legion, Department of California
AMVETs, Department of California
California Association of County Veterans Service Officers
California State Commanders Veterans Council
East Bay Regional Park District
Military Officers Association of America, California Council of Chapters
Orange; County of
Sons and Daughters in Touch
Vietnam Veterans of America, California State Council

Oppose: None on File.

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SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES AND WATER

Senator Monique Limón, Chair

2025 - 2026 Regular

Bill No: SB 55 Hearing Date: March 25, 2025

Subject: State parks: free day use pass: Gold Star Family members

SUMMARY

This bill would require the California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to provide an eligible Gold Star Family member with a pass to free day use of any unit of the state park system operated by the state.

BACKGROUND AND EXISTING LAW

California State Park System. According to the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), the State Park System consists of 280 state park units, over 340 miles of coastline, 970 miles of lake and river frontage, 15,000 campsites, 5,200 miles of trails, 3,195 historic buildings and more than 11,000 known prehistoric and historic archaeological sites; the largest and most diverse recreational, natural and cultural heritage holdings of any state agency in the nation. More than 68 million people annually visit California’s State Park System.

Reduced Rate or Free State Parks Passes: State Parks offers a number of annual passes to the general public for a fee. There are five passes offering free or discounted entry to State Park units on an annual or per-visit basis:

• Adventure Pass – offers free entry to 54 state parks to fourth graders and their families, valid for September 1 to August 31 of the child’s fourth grade year.
• Disabled Discount Pass – for $3.50, offers a lifetime pass to persons with permanent disabilities entitling the bearer to a 50% discount on vehicle day-use, family camping, and boat-use fees at over 100 park units.
• Distinguished Veterans Pass – offers a free lifetime pass for vehicle day use, family camping, and boat use at over 100 park units to veterans meeting certain criteria.
  • Veterans and active duty military can also receive a reduced fee or free day use at state parks units operated by the state and accessible with a vehicle day use annual pass on Memorial Day and Veterans Day (Public Resources Code (PRC) §5011.6).
• Golden Bear Pass - offers social services recipients and low income seniors a pass for free vehicle day use access, valid for a calendar year.
• Senior Golden Bear Pass – for $20, offers individuals 62 and over with free entry to many state parks during non-peak seasons, valid for a calendar year.

There are two “full price” annual state parks passes.

• The Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass is valid for one year and provides vehicle entrance to 134 state parks for $195.
• The Golden Poppy Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass is valid for one year and provides vehicle entrance to 112 state parks for $125.

A pass for free use of state parks is also available to distinguished veterans. State Parks also issues a pass for the use of all facilities in the units of the state park system to qualifying veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States (PRC §5011.5). Those who are veterans of a war, residents of the state of California, have proof of an honorable discharge, and can present proof of disability, having been held captive during service, or a Medal of Honor, are eligible to receive a free pass to California State parks.

Honoring our nation’s fallen military members with free parks access for their family members would align with these values.

Gold Star Families: According to the Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife analysis of AB 308 (Alanis, 2023), the phrase “Gold Star Family” dates back to World War I when military families displayed service flags featuring a blue star for every immediate family member serving in the Armed Forces. If the Service member died in the line of duty, the blue star was changed to gold and eligible next of kin receive a gold star lapel button in adherence to the U.S. Department of Defense guidelines. According to Section 1126 of Title 10 of the United States Code, service members who lost their life during World War I, World War II, while engaged in action against opposing foreign forces, or as a result of an international terrorist attack or as a part of a peace keeping force may qualify for a Gold Star Lapel Button that their next of kin may wear or display. According to Section 553.36 of Title 32 of the Code of Federal Regulations, ‘next of kin’ is defined as the spouse, children (natural, step, adopted), parents (natural, step, adopted), siblings (natural, half, adopted), and grandparents of a service member who lost their life in a qualifying situation. The Gold Star Lapel Button definition of ‘next of kin’ is different and is based on the definition in the U.S. Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36. The U.S. Department of Defense Instruction does not include grandparents.

According to the Gold Star Family Registry, which is “the first comprehensive data base of the United States’ fallen Heroes,” since World War II, 32,448 California residents have lost their lives in the line of duty. Since not all Gold Star Family members are residents of the same state as their deceased loved ones, it is still unclear how many California residents would qualify to receive a no-cost pass.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue Gold Star Family specialized license plates for vehicles owned by eligible Gold Star Family members (Vehicle Code § 5156). Both departments use the same definition of qualifying situation and qualified family members as the Code of Federal Regulations, with the exception of including grandchildren. As of February 4, 2025, the DMV has issued 636 Gold Star Family vehicle license plates. This may be the closest proxy for the number of individuals that might be interested in accessing parks.

National Lands and other states: In 2022, the National Defense Authorization Act authorized a free lifetime pass to national parks and other federal recreation lands for eligible Veteran and Gold Star Families. Eligible veterans are those who served in the Armed Forces, National Guard, and/or Reserves, and Gold Star Families are next of kin of a member of the Armed Forces who lost their life in certain “qualifying situations” (section 3.2 U. S. Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36). New Jersey and Maine exempt Gold Star Families from state park admission and facility fees.

Prior efforts. Previous bills have proposed this idea. AB 308 (Alanis), from the 2023-24 regular session, which is identical to this bill, was held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee on the suspense file.

PROPOSED LAW

This bill requires State Parks to issue eligible Gold Star Family members a pass entitling the bearer to free day use at California state parks operated by the state.

ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT

According to the author, “Gold Star family members have had to experience the extreme trauma and grief of losing a loved one in the line of duty. This is an effective way to show gratitude to military personnel and their families for their service to the United States. Spending time outside is generally believed to improve mental health and allowing free access to state parks can provide an outlet for grief and other negative feelings.”

ARGUMENTS IN OPPOSITION

None received

COMMENTS

Double Referral: This bill is double referred to the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. This analysis only addresses those issues pertinent to this Committee, and aspects of this bill under the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee will be addressed there.

Impacts to State Parks: State Parks will likely experience reduced revenue as a result of this bill. According to the California State Parks Foundation, State Parks has a $1 billion deferred maintenance backlog. Certain federal parks, facing staffing shortages, have closed or limited their operating hours, which will likely result in an increase in state parks visitation. This has the potential to result in a need for more funding to support additional staffing, maintenance, and capital improvements at state park units.

Current language requires clarification: The proposed language in SB 55 is not consistent with similar statutes authorizing the discount or free programs listed above. Those statutes, PRC §§ 5011, 5011.5, and 5011.6, are more specific regarding what kind of reduced fee or free entry State Parks may authorize.

For example, the provision authorizing the recipients of certain social services and low income seniors a pass for free vehicle day use, specifies “The pass shall entitle the bearer and spouse to have access only to day-use facilities and not to the use of any other facilities” (PRC § 5011). Another provision that authorizes passes for veterans, specifies “A veteran….shall be issued a pass entitling the bearer to the use of all facilities….in units of the state park system” (PRC § 5011.5). Finally, , a third provision authorizes veteran and active duty military access on Memorial and Veterans Days, and specifies the reduced fee or free day use is applicable to “any unit of the state park that is operated by the state and accessible with a vehicle day use annual pass” (PRC § 5011.6).

SB 55 is vague, requiring State Parks to issue a pass for “free day use of any unit of the state park system that is operated by the state.” Providing greater specificity regarding which activities and venues this pass is applicable to will clarify the Legislature’s intent and provide State Parks with clearer authority when they adopt implementing regulations as required by the bill.

The Committee may wish to amend the bill to clarify which operations of a state park unit the free day use applies to. The Committee may further wish to consider including “all facilities,” including boat launching facilities, such as in PRC § 5011.5. This would align the Gold Star Family Member pass with the veterans pass, as well as with the federal Gold Star Family pass that provides the same benefits to Gold Star Families as veterans. [Amendment #1]

SUGGESTED AMENDMENTS

AMENDMENT 1

Revise proposed PRC § 5011.4 as follows:

5011.4 (a) For purposes of this section, “eligible Gold Star Family member” means a person who meets both of the following requirements:

(1) The person is a resident of the state.

(2) The person is eligible to receive a gold star lapel button pursuant to Section 1126 of Title 10 of the United States Code.

(b) An eligible Gold Star Family member, upon presentation of proof to the department, shall be issued a pass entitling the bearer to free day use of any unit of the state park system that is operated by the state to the use of all facilities, including boat launching facilities, in units of the state park system.

(c) The department shall adopt regulations, as necessary, for purposes of implementing this section.

SUPPORT

Sons and Daughters In Touch (sponsor)

OPPOSITION

None Received

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