No Beach Tags For Vets, Families This Summer?

The Assembly yesterday 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 Assembly 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. (Wikimedia Commons)

Sponsored by Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and John Catalano, the bill, A-1662, advanced with vote of 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.

“This is a well-earned courtesy thanking those who have given so much for our nation,” said Assemblyman McGuckin. “These men and women have proudly served, often at great cost to themselves and their families. We want them to know how grateful we are for their sacrifices.”

In the previous Legislative Session, versions of the bills cleared the Senate and the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

“When military members are serving, their spouses and children make sacrifices as well. Those who served our country shouldn’t have to think twice about driving to the shore with their families,” Assemblyman Catalano said. “They should be free to enjoy our New Jersey beaches.”

During the Summer 2021 season, daily adult beach badges ranged from $5 in Long Branch and Barnegat Light to $12 in Lavallette and Avon-by-the-Sea. Those prices exclude parking fees.