Campers, hunters could see higher fees under governor's latest budget

SPRINGFIELD -- Hunters and campers in Illinois could be paying more in fees under Gov. Rod Blagojevich's latest budget proposal.

The administration hinted weeks ago that some higher park fees could be necessary to fill a $750 million budget gap.

So Blagojevich is proposing that campers pay $5 more per day for electric hookups and $10 more per day for sites on holiday weekends. Out-of-state hunters would pay more for archery and firearm licenses.

The state's Department of Natural Resources says current fees aren't keeping pace with actual utility costs.

Lawmakers are scheduled to meet through the end of May.

The proposed fees would go into effect July 1.