S 2546 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Clarifies that certain beach owners and lessees have no duty to keep beach safe or to warn of hazards; provides immunity from liability, in certain cases, for injuries occurring on beach or in adjacent waters.

This bill clarifies that private beach owners and lessees who allow public access for recreation have no legal duty to maintain beach safety or warn visitors about hazards when lifeguards are not present ("unguarded" areas). It grants immunity from liability for injuries occurring on unguarded beaches or adjacent waters, except in cases of willful/malicious acts, negligence in commercial contexts, or gross negligence by the owner. The law specifically removes the requirement to post warnings in unguarded zones and states that granting public access does not create a legal duty of care. It applies to privately owned beaches accessible for activities like swimming or fishing, excluding areas with active lifeguard coverage.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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Legislator
Party
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P
Photo of Paul Sarlo
Paul Sarlo
DDemocratic
NJ
36