New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3210

Introduced
5/13/24  

Caption

Requires institution of higher education to adopt policy on use of campus facilities and grounds for camping.

Impact

The enactment of S3210 would create a formalized approach for managing camping activities on college campuses across New Jersey. By establishing requirements for prior approval, institutions will have the authority to regulate who can camp and under what conditions. This could lead to increased oversight regarding the use of campus spaces, addressing potential safety and security concerns associated with unregulated camping. Furthermore, it aligns with the goal of ensuring that campus grounds are used appropriately and safely.

Summary

Senate Bill S3210, introduced in the New Jersey legislature, mandates that institutions of higher education develop and adopt a policy regarding the use of their campus facilities and grounds for camping. This bill focuses on the procedural aspect of camping on campus, which includes setting specific requirements that individuals or groups must follow to obtain permission to camp on these facilities. The bill defines 'camping' broadly, encompassing activities such as pitching tents, using sleeping bags or blankets, and other forms of temporary shelter intended for overnight stays.

Contention

While the bill appears to be aimed at promoting organized use of campus facilities, it may face opposition from groups advocating for free access to public spaces. Critics might argue that requiring prior approval could restrict students’ rights to utilize campus resources freely, especially for social and recreational purposes. The requirement for a formal policy may also lead to bureaucratic hurdles, which some stakeholders might perceive as unnecessary complications in utilizing open space, impacting student engagement in outdoor activities.

Companion Bills

NJ A4422

Same As Requires institution of higher education to adopt policy on use of campus facilities and grounds for camping.

Previously Filed As

NJ A4422

Requires institution of higher education to adopt policy on use of campus facilities and grounds for camping.

NJ HB2382

Camping ban on certain public property.

NJ S3184

Requires public institution of higher education to invite Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey on institution's campus.

NJ S2898

Requires public institutions of higher education to adopt test-optional admissions policy.

NJ S173

Requires public institutions of higher education to adopt test-optional admissions policy.

NJ A1715

Requires public institution of higher education to invite Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey on institution's campus.

NJ A348

Requires public institutions of higher education to adopt test-optional admissions policy.

NJ A4952

Requires public institutions of higher education to disclose all financial donors.

NJ SB00980

An Act Improving Safety On The Campuses Of Institutions Of Higher Education.

NJ A4224

"Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act"; requires institutions of higher education to implement mental health programs and services.

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NJ A3422

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