The proposed bill, known as the County Self-Help Infrastructure Act, allows counties in New Jersey to impose a county-wide infrastructure construction fee, contingent upon voter approval. This initiative aims to address the growing infrastructure needs within the state, which have been exacerbated by inadequate funding from the New Jersey Department of Transportation. The bill outlines the procedures for obtaining voter approval, including the requirement for a public question to be presented during a general or special election, which must receive more than 50% affirmative votes. The fee can be used exclusively for funding infrastructure projects such as public highways, bridges, and utilities.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding county budget limitations by allowing for exceptions related to the newly established infrastructure construction fee. Specifically, it permits counties to include amounts approved by referendum under this act as exceptions to the 2.5% tax levy increase limit. This change is intended to provide counties with the flexibility to generate necessary funds for infrastructure improvements while ensuring that the process remains transparent and accountable to voters. The act is set to take effect immediately but will remain inoperative until four months after its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40A:4-45.4