There are two important bills in the State Legislature that have to do with making beaches more accessible to people with all disabilities. These are A-1579 and S-761.
Both bills require:
“Within one year after the effective date of this act, the Department of Environmental Protection shall, in consultation with the Department of Human Services, develop guidelines for specific facilities and accommodations necessary to provide accessibility to beaches for persons with disabilities. The guidelines shall include recommendations for ramps, restrooms, showers, boardwalks, surf chairs, parking, and any other facilities deemed appropriate.”
For more information, go to the NJ Legislature website at njleg.state.nj.us
A-1579 is sponsored by Assemblywoman Joann Downey, Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling, of Monmouth County and Assemblywoman Britnee Timberlake, of Essex County. Currently, A-1579 is sitting in the Assembly Human Services Committee. Assemblywoman Downey is the chair of this Committee.
S-761 is sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal, of Monmouth County. This bill is called “Penny’s Law.” Currently, S-761 is sitting in the Senate Environment and Energy Committee. Senator Bob Smith of Piscataway is chair of that Committee.
Advocates can help move these bills for passage. It’s Summer and the beaches are open!
You can call or write to Senator Smith’s office at 732-752-0770 or sensmith@njleg.org
What to say or write (This is just a guideline. Use your own words if you want):
“My name is ______________________. I live in __________________. I am calling/writing to request that S-761 be considered for a vote in the Senate Environment and Energy Committee. S-761 requires the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Human Services to develop guidelines to make beaches accessible for people with disabilities. As a person with a disability (or family member with a disability) I enjoy going to the beach, but many beaches are not accessible, even after 30 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law. Passage of this bill will help NJ’s beaches become in compliance with this law. Thank you.”
If you have questions, please email Luke Koppisch at lkoppisch@adacil.org
