Bill > A1838

This bill aims to encourage local units of government in New Jersey to share services and makes appropriations to support these efforts. It amends existing laws to streamline the process for shared services and consolidations, particularly concerning employee transitions and the role of the Civil Service Commission. Key changes include clarifying that the Civil Service Commission's rules may not apply to employees affected by shared service agreements or joint meetings, and that the final decision on which employees transfer rests with the local unit providing the service. The bill also modifies the responsibilities and powers of the "Local Unit Alignment, Reorganization, and Consolidation Commission" (the Commission), granting it more authority to request resources from the Department of Community Affairs and to contract for necessary personnel. Furthermore, it refines the process for the Commission to propose consolidations and shared services, including requirements for reporting estimated savings and the potential reduction of State aid if shared services are not implemented. Finally, the bill appropriates funds from the General Fund and the Property Tax Relief Fund to cover the operating expenses of the Commission and to fund extraordinary costs associated with implementing consolidation plans and shared service agreements.