Newsom expands free access to California State Parks amid federal shutdown strain

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- While the federal government shutdown continues to disrupt access to national parks across the country, Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom announced last week that California is expanding its Golden Bear Pass program — offering free entry to hundreds of state parks for families receiving public assistance. • The Nexstar Media video above explains why some national parks charge entrance fees

The revamped program, part of the state’s broader Outdoors for All initiative, allows eligible Californians to receive free annual vehicle day-use passes at more than 200 state parks. Officials say a streamlined application process has led to a dramatic rise in participation — jumping from just a few thousand passes issued each year to mo