New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S4013

Introduced
6/26/23  

Caption

Requires municipality to provide free beach access to certain veterans.

Impact

The enactment of S4013 will significantly change the way municipalities manage beach access fees for veterans. Previously, municipalities had the discretion to offer free or reduced fees, but with this bill, all qualifying veterans will be entitled to free access unequivocally. This aligns the policy across the board and recognizes the sacrifices made by military personnel, thus increasing the accessibility of recreational spaces for those who have served.

Summary

Senate Bill S4013 requires municipalities bordering on the Atlantic Ocean, tidal water bays, or rivers to provide free beach access to certain veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States and received an honorable discharge. The legislation amends existing laws that allow municipalities to offer free or reduced beach access at their discretion, thereby establishing a mandatory requirement for these municipalities to waive fees for qualifying veterans. This is aimed at enhancing recreational opportunities for veterans and recognizing their service.

Contention

While the bill has garnered widespread support from veteran advocacy groups, there may be concerns among some municipalities regarding the financial implications of this mandate. Municipalities that previously relied on beach access fees as a form of revenue may face budgetary adjustments. The bill does also mention that municipalities must track the number of qualifying veterans who access these free services, which may entail additional administrative responsibilities. Additionally, it remains to be seen how municipalities will implement this requirement without imposing undue burden on their existing operational frameworks.

Companion Bills

NJ A1261

Same As Requires municipality to provide free beach access to certain veterans.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1261

Requires municipality to provide free beach access to certain veterans.

NJ A544

Requires municipality to provide free beach access to certain veterans.

NJ S704

Requires municipality to provide free beach access to certain veterans.

NJ S894

Allows shore municipalities to provide spouse and dependent children of veterans free or reduced cost access to beaches.

NJ A1055

Allows shore municipalities to provide spouse and dependent children of veterans free or reduced cost access to beaches.

NJ A1662

Allows shore municipalities to provide spouse and dependent children of veterans free or reduced cost access to beaches.

NJ S473

Allows shore municipalities to provide spouse and dependent children of veterans free or reduced cost access to beaches.

NJ A644

Permits municipality to use proceeds of beach access fees for areas near beach facilities that are significantly affected by beach tourism; requires municipality to provide explanation of expenditures on website.

NJ A614

Permits municipality to use proceeds of beach access fees for areas near beach facilities that are significantly affected by beach tourism; requires municipality to provide explanation of expenditures on website.

NJ A445

Permits municipalities to charge reduced or no beach fee for children ages 12 to 17; revises law concerning beach fees for veterans.

Similar Bills

NJ A2806

Increases Spill Compensation and Control Act cap on recovery of damages from certain dischargers.

CA SB141

Personal income taxes: exclusion: loan discharge.

CA SB63

Personal Income Tax Law: exclusion: student loan debt forgiveness.

CA AB1182

Post-release supervision of offenders.

CA AB377

Water quality: impaired waters.

CA AB1657

Oil spills: reporting: waters of the state.

AZ HB2249

State waters; rules; ecological services.

AZ SB1595

State waters; rules; ecological services