Domenici Backed Bill to Provide Discounted Parks Pass for Veterans Receives Hearing
July 12, 2007
04:04 PM
WASHINGTON - A bill backed by U.S. Senator Pete Domenici that would grant veterans discounted access to National Parks and other federal lands today received its first hearing, setting the stage for action by the full Energy Committee.
The Subcommittee on National Parks received testimony on the Veterans Eagle Parks Pass Act (S. 617). The Domenici co-sponsored bill was introduced in February by Senator Gordon Smith (R-Ore.), and extends honorably discharged servicemen and women a discounted pass that would entitle them to unlimited admission at National Parks and other Department of Interior lands.
“The discounted passes will offer every honorably charged serviceman and woman an opportunity to enjoy the recreational opportunities provided by our National Parks. The sacrifices that these individuals have made for our country deserve to be recognized by the federal government, and the Eagle Parks Pass will serve as a small but important way to extend our appreciation,” Domenici said.
S. 617, if fully implemented, would authorize the nearly 12 million veterans under the age of 62 an Eagle Parks Pass for an annual fee of $10. Veterans over the age of 62 are eligible for a discounted senior citizens pass.
The passes will provide access to public lands managed by the National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and the United States Forest Service.
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