New Jersey Assembly Bill A3804

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/2/22
• Refer: 5/2/22

Caption

Increases distribution to municipalities from Energy Tax Receipts Property Tax Relief Fund over two years; prohibits anticipation of certain revenue in municipal budget; requires additional aid be subtracted from municipal property tax levy.

Impact

The bill requires municipalities to receive an annual distribution amount not less than what was provided in fiscal year 2012 in terms of Consolidated Municipal Property Tax Relief Aid (CMPTRA) and Energy Tax Receipts Property Tax Relief Aid (ETR Aid). The restoration of this funding is intended to alleviate the financial pressures on municipalities, which have faced significant reductions in aid in the past. By providing an increase based on previous aid amounts, the bill aims to enhance the financial health of local governments across New Jersey.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3804 seeks to enhance state aid to municipalities in New Jersey by increasing the distribution from the Energy Tax Receipts Property Tax Relief Fund. Over a two-year period, the bill aims to restore approximately $331 million in funding reductions that municipalities experienced from 2009 to 2011 due to budget constraints. This measure is designed to provide significant financial relief to local governments and ensure they can maintain essential services and fiscal stability.

Contention

A key provision of the bill prohibits municipalities from anticipating receipt of the new state aid when preparing their annual budgets. This measure aims to ensure that budgets are based on actual funds available rather than projected additional revenues, which could lead to overestimations and financial shortfalls. The requirement for municipalities to adjust their local budgets to reflect these changes may raise questions about its potential impact on local budgetary autonomy and operational planning as municipalities adapt to new constraints.