A local state legislator’s bill aimed at expanding the Every Kid Outdoors program has unanimously passed the State Assembly Committee on Forestry, Parks, and Outdoor Recreation.
Assembly Bill 18, penned by Senator Andre Jacque of New Franken, would allow passes issued by the program to be used at any Wisconsin state park for vehicles with a Wisconsin license plate.
Every Kid Outdoors was created in 2015, and grants 4th-grade students and their families one year of free access to national parks.
Since then, several states have begun allowing these passes to be used at their own state parks.
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.
Sen. Jacque tells SeehaferNews.com, “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. 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.”
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.
