READINGTON, NJ — The Township of Readington has introduced an ordinance that would create a refund mechanism for residents applying for concealed carry permits. If approved, the measure would reimburse applicants the $150 municipal portion of the $200 state-required handgun carry permit fee.

Under current New Jersey law, applicants must pay a total of $200, with $150 going to the municipality and $50 remitted directly to the Superintendent of the State Police. Township officials noted that this structure places an undue financial burden on applicants and effectively acts as a tax on the exercise of a constitutional right.

The proposed ordinance, numbered 20-2025, establishes a formal refund process. Applicants who paid the municipal portion of the fee on or after January 1, 2025, can submit proof of payment to the Township’s Chief Financial Officer to receive a $150 reimbursement. The refund would apply only to Readington’s share of the fee, not the $50 paid to the State.

Refunds would be issued upon confirmation that the application was processed through Readington Township, and the CFO would be authorized to administer the program and request documentation as needed.

The ordinance was introduced at the September 15 Township Committee meeting and is scheduled for a public hearing and vote on October 20, 2025, at the Readington Municipal Building. Residents will have the opportunity to comment at that meeting.

This move highlights a growing pushback against excessive state-imposed fees on concealed carry permits. By offering refunds, Readington Township is signaling that the right to bear arms should not be conditioned on burdensome financial costs. This local action reflects a pro-Second Amendment stance while providing real financial relief to residents exercising their rights.