LANSING – The House today unanimously passed a plan by State Representative Gary McDowell (D-Rudyard) that will allow disabled veterans and former prisoners of war to receive hunting and fishing licenses for $2 and camping and state park passes for free. McDowell's plan passed the House last session, but stalled in the Senate.
"This plan is just a small way we can give back to the brave men and women who put their lives on the line for our country," McDowell said. "These veterans deserve the chance to enjoy what makes our state beautiful without having to worry about the cost of these activities. The U.P. and Northern Michigan have so much to offer outdoor enthusiasts and providing this service to our veterans just makes sense."
The legislation will waive or virtually eliminate recreation fees for prisoners of war and veterans who have been determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled as a result of their military service.
McDowell's plan passed during Armed Forces Week, which is celebrated nationally during the second week of May. Armed Forces Week offers an opportunity for communities to express their gratitude to members of the military for their dedication and service to the nation.
"What these men and women contributed to our nation's freedom and safety can never be measured," McDowell said. "They gave so much of themselves to our state and country. This is the least we can do to show our gratitude."