“It is probably the Number 1 tool that is keeping our state’s homelessness problem out of public lands.” “It has kept our parks open and expanded opportunities,” said Van De Wege, who is up for re-election in November.
The Discover Pass, created in 2011 after most direct state funding was eliminated, charges access to more than 100 developed state parks, 350 primitive recreation sites, 700 Department of Fish and Wildlife water access points, 30 Fish and Wildlife wildlife areas, and 80 Department of Natural Resource natural areas.
Lower Elwha Tribal Chairwoman Frances Charles did not return a call for comment on the legislation.
