Whereas, access to timely information on the availability of camping facilities and opportunities for day use within our state parks is essential to residents and tourists for a positive experience and enjoyment of these facilities; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 12 MRSA §1827-A is enacted to read:

§1827-A.__State parks information system

The bureau shall establish and maintain a toll-free telephone line to provide information on the use status of state parks.__ This system must be operational from April 15th to October 15th of each year and must provide information on the availability of campsites at each of the state parks with overnight camping facilities, and parking availability for day use at each of the state parks at the time an inquiry is received.__Beginning on June 15, 1999, this information must be available toll-free for Popham Beach State Park.__This information must be available for all state parks by April 15, 2000.

Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this Act takes effect when approved.

SUMMARY

This bill requires the Bureau of Parks and Lands to establish a toll-free line to provide current information on the availability of campsites and parking for day use at state parks.