Governor Newsom Expands State Parks Access and Strengthens Conservation Efforts Amidst Federal Land Policy Concerns
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed legislation aimed at expanding access to California's state parks, advancing conservation goals, and protecting the state's coast and wildlife. This action comes as President Trump's administration reportedly targets public lands. Since 2022, California has conserved over 3.5 million acres of land and coastal waters, an area larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined, putting the state on track to meet its 30x30 goal of conserving 30% of its lands and coastal waters by 2030. Key legislative measures include prohibiting the use of state infrastructure for new federal offshore oil and gas leases, establishing the California Wildlife Coexistence Act to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts, and making wildlife connectivity a routine part of highway planning. Additionally, the Governor has codified the 'Outdoors for All' initiative to ensure equitable access to outdoor spaces and made the State Parks Library Pass program permanent, allowing Californians to check out free state ...
