U.S. Senator Susan Collins today announced that she has joined with a bipartisan group of twelve Senators in requesting that the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources act quickly on their legislation to provide veterans with discounted pass card to any federal park, national forest, or wildlife refuge. Senator Collins is a cosponsor of the Veterans Eagle Parks Pass Act, which would make Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as the “America the Beautiful” pass, available to veterans for just $10 a year. The pass is currently available to anyone for $80 annually.
“I am pleased to work to see this legislation become law,” noted Senator Collins. “Our veterans have sacrificed a great deal for America, this bill will help them enjoy the pristine beauty of the nation they served to protect.”
A text of the letter follows:
Dear Chairman Bingaman and Senator Domenici:
We are writing to request that our legislation, S. 617 (The Veterans Eagle Parks Pass Act), be included in the line-up for the next business meeting of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee.
This legislation, which enjoys bipartisan support, would make the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass available at a discount to America’s veterans. Many veterans are avid outdoorsmen and understand the value and quality of our land. In a time of such turmoil abroad, we see this as a very appropriate opportunity to reward our veterans for their commitment and service to our nation. This legislation received a hearing in the National Parks Subcommittee on July 12, 2007, and we believe that only a minor technical amendment will be needed at mark-up.
Thank you for your consideration of our request.
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