Bill > S1

This bill, titled the "Marriage Equality and Religious Exemption Act," amends existing New Jersey laws concerning shared services between local government units to streamline processes and encourage cost savings for property taxpayers. Key provisions include clarifying that delays caused by disputes over Civil Service rules and tenure should not hinder the goal of facilitating shared services, and that local units can request flexibility in Civil Service regulations to create a uniform employee pool for new shared services or joint contracts. The bill also modifies procedures for handling employee transfers, terminations, and reemployment lists when services are shared, and clarifies the role of the Civil Service Commission in these matters. Additionally, it revises how the Local Unit Alignment, Reorganization, and Consolidation Commission (LUARCC) studies and recommends shared services, including provisions for potential reductions in State aid if municipalities do not act on certified recommendations and establishes appropriations for the commission's operations and for funding extraordinary expenses related to implementing consolidation and shared service agreements.