This bill amends current law to authorize free admission to State parks and forests for a broader range of individuals, specifically including active members of any branch of the Armed Forces, veterans, first responders who are residents of New Jersey, and immediate family members of qualifying individuals. The bill defines "first responder" to encompass various emergency personnel, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, and members of emergency medical services. Additionally, it specifies that immediate family members eligible for free admission include spouses, children, and other close relatives living in the same household as the qualifying individual.

The bill modifies Section 12 of P.L.1983, c.324 (C.13:1L-12) by inserting new provisions that expand eligibility criteria for free admission, while also clarifying definitions for terms such as "disabled veteran," "first responder," and "immediate family member." It retains the existing provisions for free admission for residents who are 62 years or older or totally disabled, thereby enhancing the benefits available to veterans and first responders. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1L-12