NJ bill would give tax break to disabled vets
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TRENTON, N.J. (PIX11)-- Whether it was during his attachment to a Marine unit or aboard the USS Iowa, Jay Boxwell of Cranford dedicated his life to his country.
"[I] was in a total of 38 countries in my 6 years in the military," said Boxwell.
Today, as a 60 percent disabled veteran, he advocates for other vets. But like many, he doesn't qualify for property tax relief like 100 percent disabled vets receive.
If passed into law, a bill in Trenton would allow partially-disabled veterans in New Jersey to a property tax rebate up to $5,000.
"For me, it would have a huge impact on property tax," said Boxwell.
Right now, veterans designated by the VA as 100 percent disabled, like Carmine "Chops" Czapla of Toms River, are exempt from paying property tax.
"It's a big 'thank you,'" said Czapla, an Air Force veteran, "and my comrades and I appreciate it. It helps us and our families extend our income just a little bit more, helps us be able to do a little bit more, and helps us to give back a little bit more, too."
Under this bill, partially disabled vets' rebate would match their percentage of disability. The bill also offers relief to disabled vets who rent. The bi-partisan bill has the support of many Trenton lawmakers.
"This will be the most significant piece of veterans legislation that has ever been done in the State of New Jersey -- by a mile," said Assemblyman Brian Bergen (R-NJ 26th District), an Army combat veteran.
"Frankly, it just gave me a little chills just being part of it," said Assemblyman Alex Sauickie (R-NJ 12th District), one of the bill's primary sponsors.
"This is something that's so important to all of us," said Assemblywoman Cleopatra Tucker (D-NJ 28th District), another primary sponsor.
The bill advanced through committee earlier this week. If it's passed into law, Boxwell says it will benefit the State.
"New Jersey is starting to move the needle when it comes to recognizing and honoring their veterans," said Boxwell.