Concerns removal of abandoned vessels; appropriates $25 million.

This bill creates a 21-member working group to assist New Jersey coastal communities in identifying and safely removing abandoned vessels, particularly after events like Hurricane Sandy. It appropriates $25 million to establish the "Abandoned Vessels Fund," which will reimburse municipalities for removal costs under a new program. The fund will be financed by the $25 million appropriation and civil penalties from existing laws. The working group, including state agency representatives and industry members, must report annually to the Governor and Legislature with recommendations for improving vessel removal efforts.