This bill amends existing laws regarding the annexation of land between municipalities in New Jersey. It stipulates that if the land proposed for annexation constitutes 10 percent or more of the property tax ratables of the municipality from which it is being annexed, the governing body of that municipality must submit a public question to the voters during the next general election occurring at least 45 days after the petition for annexation is received. The municipal clerk is tasked with publishing the public question in a local newspaper 30 days prior to the election. If a majority of voters oppose the annexation, the proposal fails and cannot be resubmitted for a year. Conversely, if the majority approves, the annexation can proceed.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for judicial review in cases where the governing body refuses to consent to the annexation. Petitioners must demonstrate that the refusal was arbitrary or unreasonable, detrimental to the economic and social well-being of the majority of residents, or in violation of the results of the public question from the previous election. The bill aims to enhance transparency and public involvement in the annexation process while ensuring that significant changes to municipal boundaries are subject to voter approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40A:7-12.1