California's popular program that lets library users check out free state park passes has been saved

Topline:

California leaders pledged $6.75 million to fund another year of the program that allows people to check out state parks passes at libraries. The program was previously on the chopping block.

Why it matters: Entry fees to state parks and state beaches — $20 per vehicle in the summer high season — are often cited as a major barrier that keeps lower-income Californians from visiting.

Almost cut: In Gov. Gavin Newsom’s initial 2024-25 budget proposal released earlier this year, the program was slated to be cut. But the program was revived in the latest agreement between the governor and state legislative leaders.

The background: The Los Angeles County library system alone has loaned out almost 10,000 passes since the program began. In Orange County, libraries loaned out nearly 10,000 passes just last year.