The New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation has proposed changes to its Access Pass program, which
provides state residents with certain permanent disabilities free or reduced cost admission to recreational facilities operated by State
Parks and the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Why is State Parks proposing changes to the Access Pass eligibility rules?
Since the Access Pass was adopted in 1977, it has grown well beyond its original intent. What started out as a program intended to
provide recreational opportunity to individuals with specific disabilities has expanded dramatically over the past 30 years. Two-thirds
of current Access Pass holders are qualified under categories that are not specified by law. In addition, media reports have raised
questions about abuse of the program. For more information, please refer to the March 10, 2010 press release:
State Parks Proposes Access Pass Eligibility Reforms.
Who will be affected by the proposed changes?
Two of eight eligibility categories for the Access Pass will be eliminated. Individuals receiving federal Social Security Disability,
Supplemental Security Income or Railroad Retirement Board Disability will no longer be eligible for the Access Pass. The "semi-ambulatory"
category will also be eliminated. Neither of these categories are specified by state law.
Will I still be able to use my Access Pass?
Individuals who qualified for the program under the following categories will continue to be eligible: blind, deaf, non-ambulatory,
amputee, veteran who has a disability, or mental disability.
I don't know how I qualified for the Access Pass. How can I find out?
There is a two-letter code within your Access Pass ID number.
If the code reads VA, DD, DF, AM, WC, BL or MH, your Access Pass will remain valid under the proposal.
If the code reads SS, CA, PA, LB, WK, RR, KR, HR, CR, OX or ST, your Access Pass will NOT remain valid under the proposal.
I will lose my eligibility under the proposal, but I feel my disability should still qualify me for an Access Pass. What can I do?
You can reapply if you are eligible through the six remaining categories (blind, deaf, non-ambulatory, amputee, veteran who has a
disability, or mental disability). You will need to provide documentation from a physician or certification from the state Office of
Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, the state Office of Mental Health, or the U.S. Veterans Administration. The
application is available on line or by calling 518-474-2324; TDD 518-486-1899.
When do the changes take effect?
If the proposal is approved, the changes will take effect this upcoming operating season.
How much will the changes save New York State Parks and Recreation?
State Parks projects an annual recovery of $1 million.
Will State Parks be able to reopen any of the parks and historic sites slated for closure with the Access
Pass savings?
No. The revenue estimate is built into the 2010-11 fiscal year budget plan that already calls for closing and reduced operations at
dozens of state parks and historic sites. If the changes are not approved, State Parks will have to consider closing additional
facilities.
I have an Empire Passport. Will these changes affect me?
No. The Empire Passport – which park patrons pay a $65 fee to receive for year-round park access – will not be affected.
I am a Senior Citizen. Will these changes affect me?
No. The Golden Park Program – which allows New York citizens 62 and older with proper ID to enter free on non-holiday weekdays – will not
be affected.
I don't believe these changes are fair. What can I do?
State Parks will accept written public comments on the proposed regulation until May 3, 2010. Comments can be submitted to State Parks'
via email to rulemaking@parks.ny.gov, by regular
mail to OPRHP Counsel's Office, Empire State Plaza, Agency Building 1, Albany, NY 12238, or faxed to (518) 474-5106.
Who is responsible for this decision?
This was a decision of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Will my camping reservations still be honored if I have already made them?
Yes. Prior reservations will NOT be automatically cancelled because the Access Pass benefits may not be useable.
Will I still be able to use my Access Pass to golf?
The Access Pass may be used for golf only by those people who have an Access Pass that is coded, as described above, to show that you
meet the revised qualifications.
