Senate approves new state parks passport

BOISE (AP) — Legislation to help raise money for Idaho state parks and make access to those getaways more affordable is headed to the Governor's desk.

The Senate approved a bill Tuesday to create the new Idaho State Parks Passport program.

Under the program, motorists registering vehicles could voluntarily pay a $10 fee for a sticker that gives annual access to 30 state parks. There is also the option of paying $20 for a two-year pass.

The program was developed by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation to help raise money.

Annual passes currently sell for $40, while daily stickers sell for $5.

Supporters hope the discount will spur sales of parks passes. Officials project that if 20 percent of motorists sign on, the agency will generate $1.9 million in revenue.