Legislation Assemblymen John DiMaio and Jay Webber sponsor providing disabled state veterans with free admission to state parks and forests received approval recently from the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
 
“Many of our veterans suffer from a multitude of debilitating health issues,” said DiMaio (R-Warren). “Some have lost a limb or limbs while for others the wounds of war sometimes go beyond what the eyes can see. Regardless of whether a veteran has a physical or psychological disability, they have paid a steep price preserving the freedoms of our nation. It’s a debt we can never repay, but we can show our thanks through small efforts such as this.”
 
Webber added, “Many veterans have debilitating physical or mental health issues that leave them unable to work (R-Morris). As a result, many face tremendous challenges, including financial difficulties.  We can never repay the huge debt we owe to these courageous soldiers. This small gesture, however, will allow our men and women who were disabled in service to our country an opportunity to visit our state’s 50 plus state parks where they can enjoy the beautiful scenery, beaches and fishing.”
 
The bill (A-717) provides free admission to New Jersey’s state parks and forests to honorably discharged members of the U.S. armed forces who have a service-connected disability. It allows free access to state park beaches by motor vehicle in order to fish there, including an exemption for mobile sport fishing vehicle permits.