New Jersey Senate Bill S4331

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/12/25
• Refer: 5/12/25

Caption

Prohibits local government from naming its property after foreign terrorist organization.

Impact

The implications of S4331 may significantly affect various local government entities' ability to name or recognize properties. The legislation requires local governments to take prompt action to dismantle any displays, signs, or names associated with foreign terrorist organizations and replace them with neutral alternatives. The State Division of Local Government Services, in collaboration with the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, is tasked with compiling and updating a list of foreign terrorist organizations to guide compliance.

Summary

Bill S4331 introduces legislation that prohibits local government entities in New Jersey from naming property after organizations designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the federal government. This policy aims to standardize the naming practices of municipalities, counties, and school districts, ensuring that public spaces, such as roads, parks, and buildings, do not carry names associated with entities deemed hostile or threatening to national security. The bill outlines specific guidelines and time frames for compliance, mandating that any existing property names associated with foreign terrorist organizations be altered within specified periods following the bill's enactment.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the enforcement of this bill. Local governments may express concerns about the financial implications of renaming properties and dismantling associated displays. The bill includes provisions that require the state to reimburse local governments for complying with these requirements, though the process for obtaining this reimbursement could also be a bureaucratic hurdle. Furthermore, the bill's enforcement mechanism, which allows for deductions from state aid for non-compliance, may lead to pushback from local government authorities who feel this could lead to financially punitive measures.