Relating to notice of proposed increases in fees charged by the Parks and Wildlife Department for certain permits.
Impact
The bill specifies that notice is only required if the proposed fee increase is at least three times the current fee for that type of permit. This stipulation balances the need for transparency with the practicality of minor fee adjustments. Additionally, the bill clarifies that this notice requirement does not apply to other licenses or authorizations issued by the department, streamlining processes for less significant changes in fees that may not require such extensive notification.
Summary
SB923 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending the Parks and Wildlife Code to establish a formal notice requirement for proposed increases in fees charged by the Parks and Wildlife Department for certain permits. The bill mandates that the department must provide written notice to permit holders at least 90 days before a fee increase is proposed. This change is intended to ensure that those affected by fee changes are adequately informed and have time to prepare for the financial implications of such adjustments.
Contention
While SB923 seems straightforward, it may raise discussions regarding the implications of fee increases on recreational activities and conservation funding. Some stakeholders could argue that significant fee increases may disproportionately affect certain groups, such as low-income individuals or families who rely on the state parks for accessible recreation. There may also be concerns about how effective the notification process will be in reaching all permit holders, as this could impact compliance and overall public relations with the department.