New Jersey Senate Bill SCR133

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/5/22
• Refer: 12/5/22

Caption

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing municipalities to provide partial property tax exemption to certain first responders disabled as result of World Trade Center recovery medical condition.

Impact

If enacted, SCR133 would amend Article VIII, Section I of the New Jersey Constitution to permit local governments to enact ordinances for these exemptions. This legislation could lead to a significant reduction in property taxes for eligible first responders, offering them some financial relief as recognition of their sacrifices during a national tragedy. However, it is important to note that the state will not reimburse municipalities for the property tax revenue lost due to these exemptions, which could create fiscal challenges for local governments.

Summary

SCR133 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that proposes an amendment to the New Jersey Constitution aimed at providing financial relief to certain first responders. Specifically, the resolution will allow municipalities to offer a partial property tax exemption for the residential real estate of police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians who are disabled due to medical conditions resulting from their exposure at the World Trade Center site after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The proposed exemption would cover the first 15% of the assessed value of their primary residence.

Contention

Notably, the introduction of this resolution may raise questions about fiscal responsibility and equity. While supporters argue that providing financial aid to disabled first responders is a moral imperative, opponents may argue that the inability of the state to compensate municipalities for lost revenue could complicate budgeting processes and adversely affect other community services. Additionally, the eligibility criteria, which ties the benefit to specific medical conditions certified by a federally authorized program, may lead to debates on the fairness and accessibility of the exemption.