Directs the commissioner of parks, recreation and historic preservation to establish the state parks passport program allowing visitors to state parks and historic sites to log their visits to such sites in a passport book or electronic application.
Summary
Bill A07280 proposes the establishment of a state parks passport program in New York, which would allow visitors to state parks and historic sites to log their visits using a printed passport book or an electronic application. The program aims to enhance visitor engagement and promote outdoor recreation by providing a system for tracking visits to various sites through ink or electronic stamps that identify each location. The costs associated with the program's development will be funded through the patron services account of the miscellaneous special revenue fund, and the commissioner has the authority to charge fees for the passport materials.
Impact
The implementation of the state parks passport program will amend the parks, recreation, and historic preservation law by adding a new section dedicated to this initiative. This change is expected to encourage more visitors to explore state parks and historic sites, potentially increasing revenue from park visits and related activities. It may also lead to the designation of specific sites for special events aimed at promoting outdoor recreation, particularly for children and senior citizens, thereby enhancing community engagement with state parks.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A07280 appears to be positive, as evidenced by unanimous support in committee votes, with no opposition recorded in the Assembly Tourism, Arts and Sports Development Committee, the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, and the Assembly Rules Committee. This suggests a broad consensus among legislators regarding the benefits of the proposed program.
Contention
There are currently no notable points of contention regarding Bill A07280, as it has received unanimous support in committee discussions and votes. However, potential future discussions may arise regarding the funding mechanisms for the program and the fees associated with the passport materials, particularly if the program does not generate the anticipated visitor engagement or revenue.
Same As
Directs the commissioner of parks, recreation and historic preservation to establish the state parks passport program allowing visitors to state parks and historic sites to log their visits to such sites in a passport book or electronic application.
Directs the commissioner of parks, recreation and historic preservation to establish the state parks passport program allowing visitors to state parks and historic sites to log their visits to such sites in a passport book or electronic application.
Directs the commissioner of parks, recreation and historic preservation to establish the state parks passport program allowing visitors to state parks and historic sites to log their visits to such sites in a passport book or electronic application.