Today, Senator Bill Dodd, D-CA, advanced legislation aimed at extending the ability of the California Department of Parks and Recreation to collaborate with nonprofits in the operation and maintenance of park facilities. The bill aims to enhance parks and save money while ensuring the sustainability of these natural spaces for future generations.

 
Sen. Dodd highlighted the significant contribution of volunteers and nonprofit groups in making California parks exceptional. He stated, "My proposal would allow these vital partnerships to continue, ensuring our parks are sustainable and the best they can be for generations to come."

Under existing law, the state can enter into partnerships with nonprofits for the improvement, restoration, maintenance, and operation of state parks. However, this authorization is scheduled to end on January 1, 2025. Sen. Dodd's Senate Bill 668 seeks to extend the ability to form operating or co-management agreements with nonprofits. These agreements empower qualified organizations to assume functional and financial responsibilities for a park unit in partnership with the department. Such partnerships have been instrumental in preventing park closures during the 2011 recession and have facilitated crucial investments in preserving and enhancing parks across the state.

SB 668 successfully passed the Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife committee after receiving approval from the full Senate. The California State Parks Foundation, which is sponsoring the bill, emphasizes the importance of nonprofit partners in providing stable funding and enabling public access to state parks.
https://sd03.senate.ca.gov/news/20230606-assembly-committee-approves-sen-dodd's-bill-boost-state-parks'-partnership-nonprofits