COURT ISSUES FINAL RULING IN FAVOR OF NATURISTS IN SUIT AGAINT DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
Late in the afternoon on August 27, Judge Shelia Fell issued her FINAL ruling on our Petition for Writ of Mandamus. The final ruling mirrored the tentative ruling of August 19. This ruling affirms the fact that nudity is legal at Trail 6 (and all other traditional clothing optional areas within the State Parks) unless a complaint is received from a member of the public. Also, the ruling affirms that the Department must conduct public hearings in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act prior to making any changes in its enforcement policy regarding nudity within the State Parks.
Where do we go from here? The DPR essentially has three choices. First, it may choose to move forward with the proposed change in policy and proceed in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act. Second, they may appeal the Court’s ruling that came out today. Or, third, they may choose to simply stick with the existing policy. It is our hope that if they choose to retain the status quo, we will be able to work with the DPR in order to improve the park for the benefit of all the visitors and employees of the DPR alike. In any case, the Naturist Action Committee and Friends of San Onofre Beach are ready to proceed in which ever manner is appropriate depending on what path DPR chooses to take.
We deeply appreciate the support of all of you who participated in making this ruling possible, whether by writing letters, making donations or simply kind words of encouragement on the beach. Keep up the good work!
This should be a reminder to everyone of the importance of being affiliated with a national organization that supports clothing optional beaches and understands exactly how to protect and advance the rights of naturists. I strongly encourage each of you to join The Naturist Society. It is TNS and its political adjunct, the Naturist Action Committee that have brought their expertise and national clout to the table to make this effort a success. Because of NAC’s involvement, people from all across North America have contributed to this success. Please support those who have supported us.
Allen Baylis
President, Friends of San Onofre Beach
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