New Jersey Assembly Bill A218

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires municipalities to hold referendum to approve reduction or reallocation of funding or resources for certain law enforcement agencies.

Impact

If enacted, A218 will create a more democratic process concerning budget decisions related to law enforcement. Municipalities would be required to provide detailed justification for any proposed changes to funding, which must be fully communicated in the referendum. This level of transparency aims to maintain the support of communities for their law enforcement agencies while also allowing voters to have a direct say in the allocation of resources. The law would also dictate specific times for these referendums, ensuring they align with municipal budget cycles.

Summary

Assembly Bill A218 mandates municipalities to obtain voter approval via a referendum before reducing or reallocating funding or resources for certain law enforcement agencies. Specifically, the bill stipulates that any proposed changes to a law enforcement agency's budget must be presented to the electorate if a municipality plans to cut funding compared to the previous fiscal year or to shift resources between law enforcement agencies. The goal is to ensure community input in significant budgetary decisions affecting public safety services.

Contention

The bill highlights potential tensions between local government authority and public oversight. Proponents advocate for increased community control over law enforcement funding, arguing that it encourages accountability within law enforcement agencies. Critics may argue that such requirements could complicate governance and slow down necessary adjustments in funding, especially in response to changing community needs or public safety dynamics. This is particularly relevant in contexts where public safety funding is already a heated topic, especially in the wake of national discussions regarding policing and community safety.