This bill amends current New Jersey law to expand eligibility for free or reduced fee beach access to include individuals who have served in the New Jersey National Guard and were discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. Previously, the law allowed free or reduced beach access only to active members of the New Jersey National Guard who had completed Initial Active Duty Training, along with their spouses and dependent children over the age of 12. The new provision aims to recognize and support veterans of the National Guard by extending these benefits to those who have completed their service.

In addition to the new eligibility criteria, the bill also includes provisions for municipalities to track the number of qualifying individuals and allows veterans to present various forms of identification to gain access to beach facilities without needing a municipal beach tag. Furthermore, it stipulates that municipalities cannot charge disabled veterans for permits to operate motorized vehicles on the beach. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40:61-22.20