New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A749

Introduced

1/11/22

Refer

1/11/22

Caption

Dedicates up to $400,000 annually of fees collected at Island Beach and Liberty State Parks to special funds to be used to support certain park programs, and makes appropriations from the funds.

Impact

By diverting a portion of existing revenue from the parks into these specific funds, A749 underscores New Jersey's commitment to enhancing public education about its natural resources. This could mean improved educational programs, staff training, and potentially more engaging visitor experiences. However, the bill also institutionalizes a revenue allocation that previously went into the broader Parks General Treasury account, which some might argue could restrict flexible funding options for maintaining park facilities and other operational needs.

Summary

Assembly Bill A749 seeks to create dedicated funds for interpretive and education programs at Island Beach and Liberty State Parks in New Jersey. The bill stipulates that up to $400,000 annually from fees collected at these parks—such as permit, park pass, and parking fees—will be appropriated for the establishment and maintenance of the 'Island Beach Interpretive Program Fund' and the 'Liberty State Park Interpretive Program Fund.' This initiative aims to enhance the educational and interpretive experiences available to the public in these natural settings.

Contention

There may be contention surrounding the allocation of funds, as stakeholders debate the best use of revenue generated from park fees. Proponents argue that earmarking funds specifically for educational programs will provide much-needed resources for enhancement, while critics could argue that it limits the state's ability to effectively manage park resources or address unexpected financial shortfalls in other areas. The long-term implications for such dedicated funding could alter how park operations and community needs are prioritized.

Latest NJ A749 Activity

View All Events: NJ 2022-2023 Regular Session A749

Companion Bills

NJ S794

Same As Dedicates up to $400,000 annually of fees collected at Island Beach and Liberty State Parks to special funds to be used to support certain park programs, and makes appropriations from funds.

Previously Filed As

NJ A2869

Prohibits planting of non-native species in landscaping at State parks and forests; establishes grant program to support use of native plants at local parks and forests; appropriates $250,000.

NJ A1179

Exempts disabled veterans from certain fees at State parks and forests.

NJ S2924

"Liberty State Park Protection Act"; establishes requirements concerning DEP actions related to Liberty State Park.

NJ S4423

Appropriates $77,406,208 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and various Green Acres funds to DEP for local government open space acquisition and park development projects, and for certain administrative expenses.

NJ A2830

Exempts veterans from camping facilities fees at State parks and forests.

NJ A2848

Dedicates certain energy sales and use tax receipts to support utility assistance programs.

NJ A2781

Establishes special dredging account; directs $5,000,000 of sales tax collected annually be deposited therein; directs DEP to administer account and dredging program with certain requirements.

NJ A2837

Directs DEP to waive walk-in and bicycle entrance fees to State parks and forests during certain holidays.

NJ A3195

Dedicates $500,000 annually in revenues from vessel registration and renewal fees to NJ Greenwood Lake Fund.

NJ ACR61

Respectfully urges Congress to appropriate emergency funds for and increase staffing at facilities supporting Newark Liberty International Airport.

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