NJ Sandy Recovery Bill Pulled

A bill that would allow Jersey Shore towns to better capitalize on beach access fees by allowing the proceeds to also be used to rebuild and maintain nearby properties decimated by Sandy was supposed to be considered by a State Senate committee Monday.

However, the legislation has been pulled as Democratic Senate President Steve Sweeney and Senate GOP Leader Tom Kean continue to feud.

“It is appalling that senate democrats have decided to punish towns and residents devastated by the worst storm in our state’s history for personal, political motives,” said Republican Senator Bob Singer who co-sponsors the bill. “Instead of choosing to work together to provide critical assistance to our residents and businesses, Senate Democrats have decided instead to hold them captive as political pawns.”

On Monday, Kean reportedly refused to supply Sweeney with enough republican votes to force an emergency vote on Sweeney’s bill strengthening background checks for gun purchases. Allegedly in retaliation, Sweeney removed all GOP-sponsored bills from Monday’s committee list.

“This legislation can assist residents and municipalities in their most critical time of need,” says Republican Senator Joe Kyrillos who also co-sponsors the bill. “We can't let anything stand in the way of efforts that can help restore the lives and communities hit by Sandy.”

Singer and Kyrillos wrote a letter on Thursday to Community and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Jeff Van Drew, urging him to reinstate the measure to Monday’s committee meeting.