Doherty Legislation to Exempt Veterans from State Park Fees Advances

Legislation sponsored by Senator Michael Doherty (R-23) to allow veterans with service-related disabilities into New Jersey State parks and forests free of charge passed the Senate Environment Committee.

“The courage and valor of our disabled veterans deserve to be honored,” Doherty said. “Demonstrating our appreciation through free access to New Jersey’s State parks and forests is small way to say ‘thank you’ for their selfless sacrifices. Whether they are fishing with an old friend, or hiking with their children, our disabled veterans can know every time they enter a State park that New Jersey residents are eternally grateful for their service to our country.”

Senator Doherty’s bipartisan legislation, S-1443, would provide disabled veterans who have been honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances with free admission to New Jersey’s State parks and forests.

This bill would extend free State park and forest admission, as well as provide free motor vehicle access to State park beaches to fish, to all veterans who have incurred a service-connected disability, regardless of the degree of disability.

“As of 2014, there are 3.8 million veterans nationwide with a service connected disability,” Doherty added. “Free admission to our State parks will allow more of them to enjoy the outdoors with their family and friends. As a veteran, I am proud to sponsor this legislation. We thank you, and we salute you.”