7-19-2023 9:04pm

New Jersey State Police Assumes Control of Key Port, Post Unanimous SCOTUS Victory

With the dissolution of the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor, the New Jersey State Police takes on regulatory and law enforcement duties of the state's ports, marking a historic shift in control since 1953.

NEW JERSEY - For the first time since 1953, the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) Port Security Section (PSS) will assume regulatory and law enforcement duties over the New Jersey ports, succeeding the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor (WCNYH).

This change follows a unanimous ruling by the United States Supreme Court in April 2023 affirming New Jersey's right to exit the bi-state compact established with New York in 1953. The handover was officially effective from Monday, July 17, 2023.

The NJSP's new tasks include mandatory employment licensing for waterfront workers and conducting law enforcement investigations at the Port, previously overseen by the WCNYH.

This historic transition was initiated by a New Jersey legislative decision in 2018 to withdraw from the compact, citing the evolving needs of the Port.

"Since day one of my administration, I have been committed to ending the outdated Waterfront Commission and replacing it with a structure suited for the 21st century," said Governor Phil Murphy. "I know that the New Jersey State Police, one of the nation’s finest law enforcement forces, will do a superb job taking over the Commission’s responsibilities."

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin echoed this sentiment, applauding the steadfast leadership of Governor Murphy and the dedication of the New Jersey State Police in driving this transition.

Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police, also expressed confidence in the State Police's capabilities to assume the new responsibilities.

The transition was meticulously planned to ensure minimal disruption in port operations. Both New Jersey and New York have pledged ongoing collaboration via their respective law enforcement agencies to preserve the safety and integrity of the Port.

For those doing business with the Ports, guidelines are provided in a newly released Guidance Document. It serves as interim guidance until the NJSP establishes formal rules and regulations for its new oversight functions. Previously issued licenses, registrations, and permits remain valid until their respective expiration dates, with future applications to be processed by the PSS.