04 Nov, 2009
Do Californians Want Another Car Tax?
Posted by: Beach Reporter In: beaches| california| travel
In the latest plan to raise revenue for California State Parks operations, several nonprofit groups and supporters have created a proposal to tax every car licensed in California annually. Claiming to get rid of state parks admissions fees for all residents if they pass this proposed bill that would have to be approved by a majority of residents, the cost is expected to be around $18 per car per year. Lawmakers who have feared public backlash over another car tax, have rejected similar fee proposals for state parks.
Come November 2010, voters may see this proposal on a ballot, specifying a mandatory $18 annual fee on vehicle registrations, with the money going to the state parks department.
In-state motorists would get unlimited parking at most state parks and beaches - some tours such as Hearst Castle and the Ano Nuevo elephant seals preserve in San Mateo County, campgrounds, Oceano Dunes State Recreational Vehicle beach and boat launches would still charge fees. The value of the plan is diminished with an exceptions list. A variety of groups are seeking signatures to get the proposal onto a ballot measure for a November 2010 election.
During recent cutbacks, no state parks jobs have been lost. The workers whose parks are now opened less hours have been placed into offices and other work while the cleaning tasks mount with less maintenance of facilities. Some parks are open less, and bonfire rings could be removed at seven state beaches in Southern California.
$500 million a year would result from the new tax–creating possibly even a surplus to the state parks for repairs and operations. Not all the money would go to California State Parks, according to the proposal. The majority would fund the parks (about 85%) and the rest would be split among Department of Fish and Game and other conservancies.
If you don’t use the state parks system, or if you live in a region such as Southern California beaches where Bolsa Chica State Beach and many other beaches reach maximum occupancy early in the day during summer holidays and weekends, this proposal still wouldn’t guarantee taxpayers access to the parks. Admissions would be on a first come first serve basis.
