Assateague Island National Seashore Will Remove Auto Pass Gate

Just talked to the ranger station in Assateague Island National Seashore. The auto yearly pass gate is to be removed next week. Right now it works, but it will be taken out and everyone will have to stop to show their ID with a signed park pass.
Which is the requirement for all national parks by the National Park Service I was told. No idea of the actual reason “officially”, but the term cracking down was used. Ranger was very cool, glad I called and asked. I really liked that easy access gate.
Expect there to be lines now backed up more than usual.