Amends State Constitution to require tax imposed on premiums of certain fire insurance policies to be paid to New Jersey State Firemen's Association.
Impact
Currently, the tax is paid directly by the insurance companies to the Firemen's Association. By codifying this requirement into the state constitution, SCR27 aims to prevent the state legislature from diverting these funds for other purposes. This measure emphasizes the importance of maintaining dedicated financial support for firefighters and their families, ensuring that they receive adequate assistance during times of need. The amendment highlights the state's responsibility to support its first responders effectively.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 27 (SCR27) proposes an amendment to the New Jersey State Constitution that mandates the tax imposed on premiums of fire insurance policies written by out-of-state insurance companies on New Jersey properties to be paid directly to the New Jersey State Firemen's Association. This resolution ensures that the funds received from this tax will specifically benefit the firefighting community by covering essential needs like burial benefits, financial assistance for needy firefighters and their families, operational expenses of the New Jersey Firemen's Home, and other associated costs.
Contention
One point of contention surrounding SCR27 could be the implications of securing funding exclusively for a specific organization. Opponents may argue that locking these tax revenues into a single channel, without allowing potential reallocation for broader community or emergency services needs, could limit the state's financial flexibility in future budgeting decisions. However, proponents strongly advocate for the constitutional protection of these funds, citing the vulnerability and essential nature of firefighters' contributions to public safety and welfare in New Jersey.
Expands the purposes of the volunteer and exempt firefighters' benevolent association of Thornwood, New York; provides for the payment to it of certain taxes imposed upon premiums on policies of fire insurance in foreign insurance companies.
Proposes constitutional amendment providing laws imposing, extending, or delaying repeal of State tax expire after five years unless extended by Legislature.
Relates to the purpose of the Macedon Center Volunteer and Exempt Firemen's Benevolent Association, Inc., and the use of foreign fire insurance premium taxes.
Relates to the Nesconset Volunteer Exempt Firefighter's Benevolent Association; provides for the purpose of such association, and its use of foreign fire insurance premium taxes.
Relates to the Nesconset Volunteer Exempt Firefighter's Benevolent Association; provides for the purpose of such association, and its use of foreign fire insurance premium taxes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.