California governor and first partner expands free access to State parks amid federal shutdown

(FOX40.COM) — As the federal government shutdown gets in the way of people having access to national parks across the United States, Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom announced revamping the Golden Bear Pass Program.
• Video above: California State Parks celebrates the state’s 175 anniversary

Gov. Newsom stated that the new and improved Golden Bear Pass Program allows residents who are on public assistance programs to receive free vehicle day-use entry at more than 200 state parks.

According to Gov. Newsom, a streamlined application process resulted in a rise in participation, going from a couple of thousand free passes a year to more than 108,000 issued in the past three years.

“The revamped Golden Bear Pass is a prime example of how more efficient and effective government can better connect everyday Californians with essential services and deliver real results,” Gavin said in a statement. “At a time when Trump’s government shutdown is impacting access and services at national parks, this innovative program is expanding access to California’s world-class state parks.”

The first partner said in a statement that the cost of going to the state parks should never be a barrier.

“Our state parks are unmatched in their scenic beauty and biodiversity, and they belong to all Californians. Cost should never be a barrier for California families seeking to enjoy the state’s outdoor spaces and the physical and mental health benefits that come from being in nature,”  Siebel Newsom said.

Officials stated that the Golden Bear Pass is available for families who receive CalWORKs, individuals who receive supplemental security income, income-eligible Californians over age 62, and participants of California’s Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.

The pass is one of three innovative free access programs – along with the California State Park Adventure Pass for fourth graders and the California State Library Parks Pass – crafted as part of the Outdoors for All initiative. 

As of June 1, California reported,

• Over 108,000 Golden Bear Passes issued
• More than 83,000 fourth graders are participating in the Adventure Pass program
• Over 33,000 free library park passes distributed statewide

“Thanks to the simplified Golden Bear Pass process, tens of thousands more California families will be able to explore the state’s incredible natural and cultural resources for free,” said State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “I look forward to welcoming thousands more families to their state parks with the help of this innovative program.”

Gov. Newsom explained that the federal shutdown hurts the outdoor access by limiting access to essential resources such as visitor information, maintenance and in some parks, even basic services like trash collection and restroom cleaning. 

State officials said the shutdown could cause lasting harm to local economies that depend on tourism. California leaders raised concerns to the U.S. Department of the Interior about potential federal budget cuts affecting public land management and park staffing.

Below is the letter state officials sent to the U.S Department of the Interior.