California Law Permanently Authorizes State Library Parks Pass Program

Santa Barbara Santa Maria San Luis Obispo, CA, September 30, 2026 —

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed legislation that permanently authorizes the California State Library Parks Pass program, ensuring continued access to state parks for library patrons. The bill, AB 1804, was introduced by Assemblymember Gregg Hart, representing the 37th Assembly District which includes Santa Barbara.

The new law formally establishes the program, which provides library card holders with free day-use entry to more than 200 participating California State Parks. This legislative action, coupled with funding previously secured in the state budget, aims to make state park lands more accessible to the public.

The program’s permanent authorization means that its future is no longer subject to annual legislative review or potential budget cuts, providing stability for both the State Library and the public who utilize the passes. Details regarding the specific amount of ongoing funding allocated in the state budget were not provided in the summary.

Assemblymember Hart stated that the program allows Californians to connect with nature and discover the state’s natural and cultural resources. While specific details about the program’s inception or previous temporary authorizations were not included in the provided summary, the signing of AB 1804 marks a significant step towards the program’s long-term continuation.

Library card holders interested in utilizing the pass are advised to check with their local library for information on how to obtain and use the California State Library Parks Pass for free day-use entry at designated parks across the state. The specific mechanism for obtaining passes and the full list of participating parks are managed by the California State Library.

Story summarized from the original created by Stefanie Lao for California State Parks Foundation on www.noozhawk.com, see more information here.