ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 57th Legislature, 2nd Regular Session Majority Research Staff
	House: FMAE DPA 6-0-0-1

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HB 2165: veterans; state park fees; exemption

Sponsor: Representative Diaz, LD 19

Caucus & COW

Overview

Exempts veterans in Arizona from admission fees at all Arizona state parks.

History

Laws 1957, Chapter 99 established the Arizona State Parks Board (ASPB) for the purpose of preserving, establishing and maintaining areas of natural features, scenic beauty, historical interest, and zoos and botanical gardens for the education, recreation and health of the public.

As of November 2025, ASPB oversees 30 parks and natural areas open to the public. ASPB is comprised of the Commissioner of the State Land Department and six other members appointed by the Governor (JLBC)(A.R.S. § 41-511).

Current ASPB administrative rules outline the following park fee discounts for veterans who present applicable military identification:

1) 50% discount off a regular day-use entrance fee for Active Duty, National Guard or Reserve members of the U.S. military and up to three accompanied adults;

2) 50% discount off a regular day-use entrance fee for Arizona residents who are retired U.S. Military or Service-Disabled veterans and up to three accompanied adults; and

3) 100% discount off a regular day-use entrance fee for Arizona residents who are 100% Service Disabled and up to three accompanied adults (12 A.A.C. 8-Exhibit A).

Provisions

1. Exempts veterans in Arizona from admission fees for all Arizona state parks. (Sec. 1)

2. Specifies the fee exemption also applies to all passengers in the same personal vehicle as the veteran for sites that charge per vehicle. (Sec. 1)

3. Specifies the fee exemption also applies to up to three people with the veteran for sites that charge per person. (Sec. 1) 

4. Requires veterans to present their military identification card to be exempt from any state park admission fees. (Sec. 1)

5. Makes technical changes. (Sec. 1)

Amendments

Committee on Federalism, Military Affairs and Elections

1. Exempts members of the United States Military, the National Guard or a reserve unit from paying admission fees to Arizona State Parks.

2. Specifies alternative forms of identification that may be used to receive the exemption.

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Initials GG/AW                    HB 2165

1/29/2026      Page 0 Caucus & COW

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