A new $1 billion proposition to create more state parks in Texas will be added to the ballot in November.
Proposition 14, filed by Sen. Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound), is a constitutional amendment that would create the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund. Taxpayer money would be used by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) to purchase land from private owners to turn into state parks.
Parker said in a press release from the Texas Coalition for State Parks that the proposition would be beneficial for Texas due to the financial security it would provide to state parks.
“The Centennial Parks Conservation Fund would provide dependable, long-term funding for new park acquisition that will protect the unique natural and cultural treasures of Texas, creating the opportunity to ensure our state parks thrive for generations to come,” said Parker, per CultureMap Dallas.
The TPWD would only be allowed to use the taxpayer money for the purchase of land, meaning the funds cannot be used on park maintenance or employee salaries and benefits, according to Ballotpedia.
There are currently 88 state parks across Texas that draw in millions of visitors each year. However, Luke Metzger, executive director of Environment Texas, said in a press release that Texas families often do not visit state parks when they are at capacity, and the new proposition could help support the growing number of potential visitors.
“This historic legislation would create a new golden age for our state parks. 2023 marks the centennial of the Texas state parks system, and we have a lot to celebrate. What a great birthday present to give all Texans for the state parks system’s 100th,” Metzger said.
The Texas Coalition for State Parks said that 77 groups across the state have come together to educate Texans about the bill, which received support from 77% of respondents during a poll conducted over the summer.
“The Centennial Parks Conservation Fund would help protect the places we love to hike, bike, fish, picnic, view wildlife, and spend time with family. I encourage all Texans to vote yes on Proposition 14 so more Texans will have the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate the great outdoors,” said Joseph Fitzsimons, former chairman of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Commission and co-founder of the Texas Coalition for State Parks, per CultureMap Dallas.
However, not everyone is in favor of the potential expenditure.
Texans for Fiscal Responsibility said, “While conservation of natural resources and areas is important, there are other ways than spending billions of taxpayer dollars to maintain or create new State parks. We oppose this amendment.”
Proposition 14 will be on the ballot for Texas voters on November 7 and, if passed, will go into effect on January 1, 2024.
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