Bipartisan legislation aimed at expanding beach access for families and veterans in New Jersey has advanced through the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee. The bill, introduced by Senator Carmen Amato (R-9) and Senator Raj Mukherji (D-32), seeks to make New Jersey’s beaches more accessible.
“New Jersey’s beaches are a treasured part of our state, and they should be accessible to everyone, especially our veterans and our youth,” stated Senator Amato. She emphasized that the legislation is a “commonsense update” designed to alleviate financial burdens on families while ensuring all veterans receive recognition for their service.
The proposed bill, known as S-1895, would expand current laws by allowing municipalities to offer free or reduced-cost beach access to honorably discharged veterans, irrespective of their length of service or disability status. Additionally, children aged 12 to 17 would also benefit from this expansion.
Presently, the law permits towns to waive or reduce beach fees for seniors, individuals with disabilities, active-duty military members and their families, as well as veterans who have served at least 90 days of active duty or were discharged due to service-related injuries.
Senator Amato concluded by saying: “This is a small but meaningful way to honor the service of every veteran and to help more New Jersey families enjoy our beautiful Jersey Shore.”
