WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. on Monday introduced legislation aimed at preventing local taxpayers from bearing the financial burden of hosting federal law enforcement processing or detention facilities.
The proposed Local Taxpayer Protection Act of 2026 would create a dedicated federal grant program through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to reimburse municipalities for expenses associated with such facilities. Kean said the bill is intended to support towns like Roxbury Township and other host communities across the country.
“Federal agencies operate in all 50 states, and law enforcement agencies have a particularly important job, one that often demands a higher level of resources,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “Local taxpayers cannot be expected to foot the bill for federal facilities, and towns like Roxbury should not have to absorb the costs.”
Kean continued, “My legislation would ensure that law enforcement facilities in New Jersey and across the country can operate self-sufficiently without straining municipal utilities, resources, or local budgets. I have heard directly from communities in our district, and I am fighting to make sure they are fully protected from bearing costs that are not theirs to carry, while also ensuring community safety and enforcement of our nation’s laws.”
Under the bill, municipalities could apply for funding to cover unrealized property tax revenue, increased public utility expenses and infrastructure upgrades needed to support expanded facility operations. Eligible expenses would include water, gas, natural gas, electricity, internet connectivity, garbage collection, recycling and sewer systems.
The legislation would authorize funding for five years, with municipalities able to seek renewal for as long as the federal facility remains in operation.
Kean said the measure is designed to ensure federal facilities can operate without placing additional strain on local budgets and services.
