New Jersey measure clears path for young snow shovelers

Teenagers in New Jersey might not have to wait until the flakes start falling to let neighbors know they’re shovel ready.

Legislation awaiting Gov. Chris Christie’s approval would permit teens to ask property owners if they need shoveling services before a snowstorm hits.

Sen. Mike Doherty sponsored the measure in response to an incident last winter in Bound Brook where two high school seniors were warned that they were violating a local law by passing out fliers without having a permit.

“I think we should set it clear here in New Jersey that young people, if they want to go out and make a few bucks shoveling snow in their neighborhood, they should be able to do that without having to get permission from the government first,” said Doherty, R-Somerset.

The measure would supersede municipal ordinances and allow teens to promote their shoveling services up to 24 hours before a predicted snowstorm, according to Assemblywoman Valerie Huttle, D-Bergen.

“This is sort of a common-sense piece of legislation that we need to provide these young people to make sure they continue the entrepreneurial spirit and they’re able to help out their neighbor,” she said.

The law would take effect immediately after Chrisitie signs it.