New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill SR98

Introduced
8/8/22  

Caption

Opposes changing designation of Delaware Water Gap from National Recreation Area to National Park and Preserve and opposes certain parts of National Park Service's "Vision 2030" for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Impact

The opposition to the redesignation stems from concerns that this change would limit or prohibit various recreational activities enjoyed by local residents and visitors, such as hunting and fishing. Such restrictions could undermine local businesses that rely on tourism and outdoor activities, further straining the economic vitality of the area. Additionally, there are worries about the use of eminent domain potentially displacing locals and converting private lands into federal property, which would decrease tax revenues and harm the local economy, including schools and agricultural outputs.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 98 addresses the proposal to change the designation of the Delaware Water Gap from a National Recreation Area to a National Park and Preserve. The resolution expresses opposition to such changes, highlighting the potential adverse impacts on local property owners and the economy of Sussex and Warren counties. The Delaware Water Gap is a significant area for recreation and tourism, attracting approximately five million visitors annually, and the resolution aims to protect these interests.

Contention

Key points of contention revolve around the effects of the National Park Service's 'Vision 2030' plan and the subsequent Redesignation Project proposed in 2022. These plans seek not only to alter the designation of the park but also to expand the existing boundaries, which could lead to increased regulation and limitations on local rights and activities. Stakeholders argue that while maintenance and preservation of nature are essential, the balance with community rights and economic interests must be carefully managed to prevent long-lasting negative impacts on the areas surrounding the Water Gap.

Companion Bills

NJ AR157

Same As Opposes changing designation of Delaware Water Gap from National Recreation Area to National Park and Preserve and opposes certain parts of National Park Service's "Vision 2030" for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Previously Filed As

NJ AR157

Opposes changing designation of Delaware Water Gap from National Recreation Area to National Park and Preserve and opposes certain parts of National Park Service's "Vision 2030" for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

NJ SR93

Opposes all proposals to change designation of Delaware Water Gap from National Recreation Area to National Park and Preserve, including proposal from Delaware River National Park and Lenape Preserve Alliance.

NJ AR133

Opposes all proposals to change designation of Delaware Water Gap from National Recreation Area to National Park and Preserve, including proposal from Delaware River National Park and Lenape Preserve Alliance.

NJ SB2620

Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act

NJ SB1408

Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act of 2025

NJ HB5045

Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act

NJ SCR118

Designating October 12, 2025, As "national Farmer's Day" In The State Of Delaware.

NJ SB162

Smith River National Recreation Area Expansion Act

NJ HB6595

Smith River National Recreation Area Expansion Act

NJ AJR9

National parks: federal funding.

Similar Bills

NJ SR93

Opposes all proposals to change designation of Delaware Water Gap from National Recreation Area to National Park and Preserve, including proposal from Delaware River National Park and Lenape Preserve Alliance.

NJ AR133

Opposes all proposals to change designation of Delaware Water Gap from National Recreation Area to National Park and Preserve, including proposal from Delaware River National Park and Lenape Preserve Alliance.

NJ AR157

Opposes changing designation of Delaware Water Gap from National Recreation Area to National Park and Preserve and opposes certain parts of National Park Service's "Vision 2030" for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

LA HB98

Provides relative to revision of local government laws pursuant to HCR No. 218 of the 2009 R.S.

TX HB4595

Relating to nonsubstantive additions to, revisions of, and corrections in enacted codes and to the nonsubstantive codification or disposition of various laws omitted from enacted codes.

UT HB0373

Environmental Quality Amendments

US SB5512

A bill to restore the integrity of the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, and for other purposes.

US HB1525

FAIR Act of 2023 Fifth Amendment Integrity Restoration Act of 2023