Local Lawmaker Pushing For Parks Fee

The budget for state parks has taken some big hits over the years and that has lawmakers looking for ways to raise money.  Several bills have been proposed including one that would create a park sticker, charging you a fee to visit state parks like Starved Rock and Matthiessen.

Democrat State Representative Frank Mautino supports a bill that passed the House Monday.  Mautino says they need to figure out how it would be enforced and who would have to pay.

Mautino says the bill would require money to go towards repairs, maintenance and improvements.  Some other fees in other bills would go to land, water and fisheries.

The Senate has the bill for discussion.  He thinks they’ll take action on it by the end of April or early May.  Gov. Pat Quinn backs the proposal.