March 9, 2017

The Arizona State House of Representatives recently moved forward HB2369, which contains provisions to repeal the Arizona State Parks Board. This destructive bill has not been heard by the Arizona State Senate yet – will you voice your opposition to this bill by adding your name to a growing list of organizations and individuals that oppose HB2369? Read the letter and sign here.

The State Parks Board’s purpose is to “select, acquire, preserve, establish, and maintain areas of natural features, scenic beauty, historical, and scientific interest, and zoos and botanical gardens, for the education, pleasure, recreation, and health of the people…” Elimination of the State Parks Board will mean less transparency, fewer opportunities for public engagement on a broad level, and one less entity to advocate for a parks system badly in need of more advocates.

So many of us love and enjoy our nearby state parks such as Catalina State Park and Kartchner Caverns State Park. Our collective voice is needed now to let the Arizona State Legislature know that Arizonans want our state parks overseen by a transparent, diverse State Parks Board.

Thank you for taking action today!

Update March 23, 2017

Yesterday, the Senate Government Committee passed HB2369 on a 6-1 vote BUT they amended the bill to remove the provisions about eliminating the State Parks Board. This is fantastic news – your voice was heard! The bill will still have to be heard and voted on by the full Senate and we are hopeful this amendment will hold. We will keep you updated as we learn more.