The sun is out, and so are the beach badge checkers.

(Photo by William Thomas Cain/Getty Images)
(Photo by William Thomas Cain/Getty Images)
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This morning Eric Scott and I discussed how Jersey Shore destinations are experiencing an increase in beach badge sales. Not every town has raised the price of beach access this year, and a few spots like Atlantic City don't charge at all.

Money from badge sales goes toward beach maintenance and paying lifeguards, but the fact remains that many New Jersey residents and tourists dislike having to pay to use what most coastal states provide for free. Some people, however, argue that the revenue badges provide is more important than ever following Superstorm Sandy's affects on shore tourism.

Looking back in state history, there was a time where beach badges were hotly contested, with politicians even including the topic in their platforms. But people seem to have given up fighting to abolish the badges, even if they have strong feelings.

How do you feel about beach badges? Let us know in the poll and comments section below.

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