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, only 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, were eligible for such benefits. The bill allows shore municipalities to provide these benefits to a broader group of veterans, thereby enhancing access to recreational facilities for those who have served in the National Guard.

In addition to this new provision, the bill maintains existing eligibility criteria for free or reduced beach access, which includes individuals aged 65 and older, persons with disabilities, active military service members, and veterans who have served at least 90 days in active duty or were discharged due to service-related injuries. The bill also requires municipalities that offer these benefits to track the number of qualifying individuals and allows veterans to present various forms of identification to gain access to beach facilities. 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