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Bill

A 384

Requires DEP to reimburse local units for costs incurred in responding to emergencies in State parks and forests.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Auth and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill requires state DEP to reimburse municipalities for emergency response costs incurred in state parks and forests, shifting fiscal responsibility from local to state government.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Environment, Natural Resources, and Solid Waste Committee
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Bill Summary · A 384

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 384 mandates that New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reimburse local municipalities for emergency response costs they incur while operating in state parks and forests. This shifts financial responsibility for emergencies occurring on state-owned land from local governments to the state agency that manages those properties.

Why is this important

Local emergency services (fire departments, EMS, police) often respond to incidents in state parks and forests, but currently absorb these costs themselves rather than receiving compensation from the state. This bill addresses a financial burden that strains municipal budgets, particularly for smaller communities with limited resources. It also clarifies fiscal responsibility between state and local government for incidents on state property.

Potential points of contention

  • State budget impact: DEP would face new, potentially substantial expenditures for reimbursements, requiring budget adjustments or reallocation of existing resources
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill may lack clarity on what constitutes reimbursable "emergency response costs" (partial vs. full; staff time, equipment wear, fuel?)
  • Administrative complexity: Establishing a reimbursement mechanism requires new bureaucratic processes for municipalities to submit claims and DEP to verify and process them

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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