10/7/15
SACRAMENTO — Gov. Jerry Brown has signed into law Sen. Fran Pavley’s park legislation, Senate Bill 204.
The bill bolsters financial and in-kind support for the state park system, which has been bedeviled by inadequate funding and years of deferred maintenance of facilities.
SB 204 expands access to parks and improves working relationships between park officials and volunteers and supportive non-profit organizations. The measure also speeds planning and broadens the types of projects that involve cooperation with the private sector.
The legislation builds upon the successes of the administration of Gov. Jerry Brown in transforming the Department of Parks and Recreation, said Pavley of Agoura Hills.
“New management and support from the California Natural Resources Agency are restoring the state’s focus on a core mission of protecting the environment, maintaining state property and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of visitors,” said Pavley.
One key aspect of SB 204 is the removal of legal restrictions on the state entering into cooperative agreements with qualified nonprofit organizations and other groups that have experience improving visitor services.
However, all such agreements would be subject to department approval before taking effect.
SB 204 enjoys widespread support from environmental groups, bicycle enthusiasts, state and local government employees, land conservation trusts and non-profit organizations that work closely with the parks department.