Starting next month, veterans and Gold Star families will be able to visit national parks and other public lands for free, under a new initiative from the Department of the Interior announced on Wednesday for Veterans with at least 10% disability.
In a statement, Interior Secretary David Bernhardt said the move gives all veterans “free access to the iconic and treasured lands they fought to protect.” The policy goes into effect starting on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
In partnership with the U.S. Department of the Interior and Fish and Wildlife Service, among others, the NPS continues to offer free lifetime access passes to over 400 national parks and 2,000 recreation sites nationwide to any veteran with at least a 10 percent disability rating.
You must present proof in order to obtain the lifetime pass. Acceptable Documentation:
A copy of ID issued by an authorized U.S. agency such as your driver’s license, passport, or state issued ID & Documentation that proves permanent disability such as:
- Statement by a licensed physician (Statement must include: that the individual has a PERMANENT disability, that it limits one or more aspects of their daily life, and the nature of those limitations.) ;
- Document issued by Federal agency such as the Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Disability Income, or Supplemental Security Income;
- Document issued by a State agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency.
Active-duty service members and their families are already granted free access to those sites under existing department rules. The new announcement broadens that benefit to more than 20 million more individuals in recognition of their service and sacrifice on behalf of the country.
PLEASE NOTE: The lifetime pass is available locally at the BLM Office on Addison Avenue East. Again, you will need proof of at least 10% disability. There is no fee when picked up at the BLM office.
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