NEWTON, N.J. — Advocacy group NJ 50501 is pushing back against a new Sussex County policy requiring individuals or groups to secure extensive insurance coverage before using Newton Green for public expression.
As of July 1, the Sussex County Commissioners mandate that applicants must provide both commercial general liability insurance with a $2 million aggregate and automobile insurance totaling $500,000 for all vehicles involved.
The County must also be named as an additional insured on the policy.
The requirement applies to anyone seeking to use the Newton Green for public gatherings or demonstrations, including political events. In a press release Tuesday, NJ 50501 called the resolution “unreasonable” and said it imposes an unlawful limit on First Amendment expression.
“Late last month, the Sussex County Commissioners passed a resolution that unlawfully limits political expression on the Newton Green,” NJ 50501 stated.
The group canceled its planned July 5 event after the County denied its insurance waiver request. According to the press release, commissioners publicly claimed the requirement would cost no more than $200, a figure the group disputes based on the actual coverage terms.
The County’s policy specifies that coverage must be issued by insurers licensed in New Jersey and rated A.M. Best A-VII or better, further raising barriers for applicants, the group said.
NJ 50501 is urging the public to contact the commissioners and demand the resolution’s reversal, arguing it restricts speech based on viewpoint and deters public participation.
