By Peninsula Daily News services
OLYMPIA — A bill that would charge for access to Washington’s 119 state parks and millions of acres of public land to help address a revenue shortfall is heading to Gov. Chris Gregoire’s desk.
The state House voted 55-42 Thursday to require most state recreation site visitors to purchase a $30 annual vehicle pass or a $10 single-day pass.
Individuals who hold certain hunting and fishing licenses or various other permits would be exempt.
Effects at popular state parks on the North Olympic Peninsula like Fort Worden, Fort Flagler and Sequim Bay were not immediately known.
Most of the initial proceeds from the fees would go into a special state parks maintenance fund.
The rest would be divided between the state Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Supporters said the bill simply asks people who use recreation sites to help pay for them.
Critics said the fees will discourage park use.
The state Senate passed the bill Wednesday.
