10-1-19 legislators to consider waiving park fees for families of fourth graders

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A bipartisan group of lawmakers is proposing waiving state park entrance fees for fourth-graders’ families in hopes of getting kids outside.  Wisconsin residents currently pay $28 for an annual park vehicle admission sticker. The lawmakers’ bill would require the Department of Natural Resources to offer free admission to parents who can prove a fourth-grader is a member of the family in the upcoming year.  The DNR estimates the bill could result in up to $244,000 in lost revenue and cost the department $2,500 to implement.  The bill’s chief Senate sponsor, Republican Rob Cowles, says the measure will help get kids away from screens and encourage a healthier lifestyle.  The Senate natural resources committee approved the bill unanimously earlier this month. It’s now awaiting a floor vote in the Senate.