This bill amends existing laws concerning fire district elections and the process for raising property tax levies. It mandates that any proposal by a fire district to raise funds beyond the permissible property tax levy increase must be presented as a public question to voters during the general election. This requirement is designed to enhance transparency and accountability by ensuring that significant tax increases receive direct approval from the electorate during a time of heightened voter participation. Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for initiating the designation of a fire district, changing the requirement from a percentage of registered voters to a minimum of 20 legal voters or 5% of registered voters, whichever is greater.

Furthermore, the bill allows fire districts to conduct their annual elections on the same day as the general election, specifically the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. If a fire district opts to align its election with the general election, it can submit a public question regarding any proposed tax increase that exceeds the allowable adjusted tax levy. The bill also requires fire commissioners to notify the appropriate county or municipal clerk at least 60 days before the general election if a referendum is necessary and prohibits fire district elections within 45 days leading up to the general election until results are certified. These amendments aim to streamline the election process and ensure that voters are well-informed about the financial implications of their decisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 19:63-9, 40A:14-72.1