State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) recently introduced House Bill 1556, which would provide veterans with free admission to state parks in Indiana.
"Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices to serve and protect this country, and providing them with free access to Indiana's state parks is a small way we could show our appreciation," Baird said. "My legislation would ensure those who've given so much can enjoy the beauty of our state with their families more easily."
Baird is also co-authoring House Bill 1422, which would provide free admission to state parks for Gold Star family members as well.
"Gold Star families have endured unimaginable loss in service to our nation, and this bill offers a meaningful way to honor their loved ones' sacrifice," Baird said. "By granting them free state park admission, we hope to provide them with a place for reflection, healing and connection."
According to the National Park Service, current U.S. military personnel, Gold Star families and U.S. military veterans are eligible for free passes to national parks, national wildlife refuges, national forests and other federal recreational land.
Baird said both HB 1556 and 1422 would ensure that veterans and Gold Star families have this benefit at state parks across Indiana as well.
HB 1556 and HB 1422 have both been referred to the House Natural Resources Committee for consideration.
Two counterfeit shipments worth over $5M stopped by Indianapolis CBP
Gov. Mike Braun's 2025 State of the State Address
Kandee Cook to serve as GIANT fm account executive in both Rockville and Greencastle
Nominations sought for Indiana environmental awards
O'Brien and Black named Parke Heritage Homecoming royalty
School day 100 celebrated at Turkey Run Elementary
Wabash College breaks ground on community center
Fillmore man sentenced in child predator group case
Rockville, Greencastle benefit from Indiana Landmarks in 2024
Special Olympics Indiana to host Polar Plunge Feb. 8 at Butler University
Former west-central Indiana state rep settling in as DNR director
Public health risk is low; extra precautions encouraged if interacting with waterfowl
Indiana prepares for annual count of individuals experiencing homelessness
Indiana AG alleges pharmaceutical companies spike EpiPen prices 600% while deceiving Hoosier consumers
Parke Heritage Winter Homecoming is January 25
Vermillion County's Yocum is new District 42 state rep
Gov. Mike Braun signs Executive Orders to streamline state government, boost efficiency
State Rep. Baird presents local World War II, Korean War veteran and hero John Hall with Sagamore of the Wabash
Gov. Braun directs flags to be flown at full-staff in honor of Inauguration Day
