New Jersey Assembly Bill A4183

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/2/22
• Refer: 6/2/22
• Report Pass: 6/9/22
• Engrossed: 5/25/23
• Refer: 6/1/23
• Report Pass: 1/4/24
• Enrolled: 1/8/24
• Chaptered: 1/16/24
• Passed: 1/16/24

Caption

Concerns local unit filing requirement for certain shared services agreements.

Impact

The enactment of A4183 is expected to reinforce the framework for shared services among local governments, thereby potentially leading to more coordinated service delivery. It includes a provision that tenure rights for certain municipal positions, such as municipal clerks and chief financial officers, will not prevent shared service agreements. This change facilitates greater flexibility and efficiency by allowing pilot municipalities to dismiss tenured employees if embracing shared services is deemed necessary for economic efficiency. It also ensures that those dismissed employees can regain their positions and tenure if the shared service agreements are canceled within two years.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4183 aims to enhance the requirements for local units in New Jersey regarding shared services agreements under the 'Uniform Shared Services and Consolidation Act.' The bill specifically mandates that local units must file their shared service agreements with the Division of Local Government Services, along with estimates of any anticipated cost savings. The legislation seeks to promote transparency in shared services while encouraging collaboration among municipalities to potentially streamline operations and reduce costs.

Contention

While the bill is perceived as a move towards greater efficiency and intergovernmental cooperation, there are concerns regarding the dismissal of tenured municipal employees. Critics may argue that this provision undermines job security and could lead to adverse consequences for municipal workers who are displaced as a result of interlocal agreements. Furthermore, clauses that enable local units to enter into agreements with federal military bases could introduce complexities around labor regulations and existing civil service protections. These points of contention highlight the balance between pursuing administrative efficiencies and protecting the rights of public employees.