© 2023 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations

State Park Fee Would Be An Opt-Out Under Senate-Passed Bill

Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Reginald Hardwick
/
WKAR-MSU
Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula ";

Michigan drivers who renew their registration would have to opt out to avoid paying an $11 fee that allows unlimited entry into state parks under a bill advancing in the Legislature.

Currently motorists must opt into paying the Recreation Passport fee when renewing their license plate annually.

 

The Republican-led Senate passed the bill on a 28-9 vote Thursday, sending it to the GOP-controlled House for consideration next week.

 

Supporters say switching to an opt-out participation model would generate more revenue to address a $260 million backlog in infrastructure needs in the state park system.

 

Nineteen Republicans and nine Democrats supported the measure, while seven Republicans and two Democrats opposed it.

 

Related Content
Support local journalism by becoming a new WKAR donor and get ad-free feeds of your favorite NPR podcasts with NPR+ when you donate $8/month or more! Make your contribution today to fund more vetted news reports throughout mid-Michigan!