STATEMENT FROM CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS FOUNDATION ON THE LEGISLATIVE AGREEMENT FOR CALIFORNIA’S 2020-2021 STATE BUDGET | Cal Parks

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 4, 2020

Sacramento, CA – In response to the legislative agreement for the 2020-21 state budget released yesterday by the Speaker of the Assembly, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and the Assembly and Senate Budget Committee Chairs, California State Parks Foundation is pleased to see critical investments to adequately sustain state parks through turbulent economic times, while ensuring all Californians can realize the health and wellness benefits of parks at a time needed most.  

Rachel Norton, Executive Director of California State Parks Foundation, offers a statement on the legislative agreement:  


“During this time of increased stress and uncertainty, we are urging our leaders to listen to Californians who made the need for park access loud and clear throughout the pandemic crisis of COVID-19.  We are grateful to the members of our legislature who heard our call and are championing parks during this very challenging time. 


“At California State Parks Foundation, we believe we all have a role to play in working toward a more just world, in the outdoors and beyond. As an organization, we advocate for access to the outdoors and equity in our state parks, and advance policies that keep our parks safe and welcoming for all Californians.” 


The legislative agreement supports critical investments for a thriving state parks system, and therefore a thriving California.  We applaud the following actions they have taken to support state parks:

  • Rejects the $30M General Fund ongoing baseline cut to the Department of Parks that is scheduled to begin 2021-22.
  • Approves $20M General Fund for the Outdoor Environmental Education Grant Program (AB 209).
  • Approves $197.333M Proposition 68 for local assistance grants.
  • Approves $8.8M Proposition 84 for local assistance grants.
  • Approves $44.343M Proposition 68 for deferred maintenance.
  • Approves $178K Special Fund for low cost accommodations study at the Silver Strand State Beach.
  • Approves $$8.915M Proposition 68 for program delivery and projects.
  • Approves $4.875M Special Fund for non-profit operated park unit deferred maintenance.
  • Approves $572K Special Fund for the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Visitor Center.