TRENTON, NJ – If you served in the U.S. military, paying for beach access in New Jersey might soon be a thing of the past. That’s because a bill sponsored by state Republicans advanced in Trenton this week.
The New Jersey Assembly today approved legislation sponsored by the 10th District lawmakers that would give shore towns the option to offer free or discounted beach access to veterans, their spouses, and children.
The bill was passed unanimously 74-0.
“It is because of the dedication and commitment of our military men and women that we, as Americans, enjoy the freedoms we cherish. We want to welcome our veterans who were willing to risk their lives for our freedoms to our award-winning beaches,” said Senator Jim Holzapfel, who has been fighting for the benefit since 2015 and sponsors an identical bill (S-894) in the Senate.
“Under current law, municipalities are permitted, by ordinance, to provide free or reduced-fee beach access to active military service members and their families. The 10th District bill extends the courtesy to those who previously served in the armed forces,” the bill reads.
The decision to allow free or discounted access to beaches would be decided by each local municipality under this bill.