This bill mandates that municipalities bordering the Atlantic Ocean, tidal water bays, or rivers must provide free beach access to certain veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States and received an honorable or general discharge under honorable conditions. The current law allows municipalities to charge fees for beach access but permits them to offer free or reduced fees to qualifying veterans. The new legislation eliminates the option for municipalities to charge these veterans, ensuring they can access beaches and recreational facilities without any fees.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the Adjutant General of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to establish rules regarding veteran eligibility, including those discharged for medical reasons. It also specifies that municipalities must track the number of individuals qualifying for free access and allows veterans to present various forms of identification to gain access. Furthermore, it stipulates that disabled veterans will not be charged fees for permits to operate motorized vehicles on the beach.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40:61-22.20