California could avoid shutting down 220 state parks, including Chino Hills in north O.C., by charging a $15 vehicle license fee to all the state’s drivers.

The proposal, adopted by Democratic lawmakers in a joint budget committee struggling to close California’s $24.3 billion budget gap, was one of several offered as alternatives to sharp cuts proposed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Democratic legislators hope to make up the shortfall by increasing revenue and adding some new taxes and fees, and rescinding some corporate tax breaks; Republicans oppose the plan, saying the state’s economy could not support more tax increases.

read more at greenoc.com

Surfrider Foundation asks for your help:

We must stop the Governor’s plan to close over 200 of our state parks and beaches. Just this week, the Governor announced a new proposal to eliminate state funding for our state park system – which will close more than 80% of the 279-unit state park system.  Slated for Closure are many of our Favorite Beaches and Surf Spots, including:

Silver Strand, Torrey Pines, Carlsbad, Topanga, Leo Carillo, Emma Wood, Pt. Mugu, Carpinteria, Refugio, El Capitan,  Montaña De Oro, Morro Strand, Pismo, Moss Landing, Manresa, Seacliff, Half Moon Bay, Ano Nuevo, Tomales Bay,  Trinidad, Sonoma Coast…and many others!!  View a full list here.

We need your help to take action TODAY and tell the Governor and your state legislators that gutting funding to state parks is unacceptable.

Next Tuesday, June 2, the Legislature’s Budget Conference Committee will consider this proposal. State park and coastal advocates need to make their voices heard RIGHT NOW. Your contact to your legislators is critical.

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