Legislation would expand program to include state parks
MADISON, WI… Legislation co-authored by State Senator André Jacque (R-New Franklin) to expand the national Every Kid Outdoors program unanimously passed the State Assembly Committee on Forestry, Parks and Outdoor Recreation today on a vote of 9 to 0.
Every Kid Outdoors is a federal public lands youth initiative operated by the U.S. Department of the Interior that grants 4th grade students and their families one year of free access to national parks.
Since the program was created in 2015, several states have begun allowing these passes to be used at their own state parks. Under Assembly Bill 18 (AB 18), the Every Kid Outdoors pass would become usable at any Wisconsin state park for vehicles with a Wisconsin license plate.
“Now more than ever, we understand the importance of making sure our kids experience the outdoors and learn to appreciate the incredible wonders of our state’s many beautiful natural treasures and rich history,” said Jacque. “This bill removes a potential financial deterrent to families who might otherwise decide to visit a state park, at a critical period of development in their child’s life.
The proposed policy change was endorsed at the 2021 DNR and Wisconsin Conservation Congress Springs Hearings with around 92 percent support. Outdoor groups such as the Sierra Club and the Wisconsin Parks and Recreation Association have also come out in support of this legislation.
“By introducing a new generation to the incredible natural resources of our state, we encourage lifelong interest in the fun, adventure and exercise that comes from visiting our state parks,” said Jacque. “Many of those introduced to the park system will become regular users in the future and will be encouraged to purchase annual passes.”
Most 4th grade students are registered by their teachers into the national program, and if this legislation passes, no additional application will be needed to qualify for the state pass. Any parent of a 4th grade student interested in more information on the program or looking to apply for a pass can go to the Every Kid Outdoors website at https://everykidoutdoors.gov/pass.htm.
AB 18 now moves to the full Assembly for a vote. If passed by both state legislative chambers, the bill would move to the governor’s desk for a signature.
Senator André Jacque represents Northeast Wisconsin’s First Senate District, consisting of Door, Kewaunee and Calumet Counties and portions of Brown, Manitowoc, and Outagamie counties.
