Mich. Senate panel OKs change in state park fees

By AP

Lansing, MI – Lansing, MI (AP) - A Michigan Senate panel has voted to eliminate entrance fees for state parks and instead give motorists the option of paying $10 more in annual vehicle registration fees.

It now costs $6 daily and $24 annually to use state parks.

Vehicle stickers would disappear under legislation approved Wednesday by the Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee.

A Michigan license plate would provide unlimited access to parks.

Random checks against vehicle registrations could lead to fines against visitors who hadn't paid the $10.

Supporters say the change would be a good deal for residents and boost funding for parks in desperate need of maintenance.

A House committee is expected to pass the plan Thursday, though it may hit resistance in the full Legislature.