National Park Service has it all wrong!!??

carl2591 wrote:
I believe the NPS should change what they charge for the NPS passes.

right now the cost are as follows.

America the Beautiful Annual pass- $80
America the Beautiful Senior pass- $10
America the Beautiful Access pass- free for permanently disabled.
America the Beautiful military pass- free to active military.

The Annual pass should cost only $50 and the Senior Pass should be $80. (that is lifetime.)

10 bucks for something that last a lifetime after age 62 is crazy. Just goes to show how little government knows about cost to run stuff.

Me i am looking forward to getting my Senior pass in 2 yrs and if I have to pay 80 bucks for it then its still a STEAL..

Well your idea is wrong on so many levels it's hard to know where to start. I am sure you mean well but it sounds more like sour grapes.

First almost every country of any developed status at all have deep discounts for those that are retired, students and the War Veterans. So this is just in keeping with discounts for those over a certain age that are enjoyed at parks, restaurants and many other businesses.

As someone who has used the National Parks system for almost 60 years, and that counts being taken by my parents, I have supported the Parks with countless dollars over my working life.

The only financially responsible decision for the National Parks is the current rate system. It would be Bad policy to say nothing of bad economics to make the changes you call for.

Now I for one would find it interesting if you would support your idea with some logical argument. Why for example should the young, healthy and WORKING people who can afford to take a vacation get a deep discount leaving the bulk of the financial burden on those who are not working and on limited incomes?

I think the system is fair as structured and fiscally responsible too.