Christie signs bill granting military families free access to beaches

Veterans and other armed forces personnel can now use their military identification to gain access to beaches in New Jersey.

The bi-partisan measure was signed Monday by Gov. Chris Christie.

The bill permits military personnel, veterans, their spouses and dependent children over the age of 12 to use their military identification, form DD-214 25 or similar document, or a state driver’s license or identification card indicating that the holder is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces for beach access instead of having to pay for a beach tag.

The measure, which is at the discretion of individual municipalities, also applies to active members of the New Jersey National Guard who have completed initial active duty training as well as anyone 65 years or age or older or disabled. 

The bill was passed last year by the state Senate and the Assembly.