Assembly committee releases bill to create New Jersey Film Trail, citing tourism benefits and privacy protections

The Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee voted to release Assembly Bill A4883, which would require the Division of Travel and Tourism to establish a New Jersey Film Trail. Committee members and visitors said the trail could encourage film- and television-driven tourism and bring economic benefits to small communities.

The chair framed the proposal as a way to connect fans with places where movies and TV shows were filmed and pointed to examples such as locations used in Wolf of Wall Street and West Side Story as evidence that a film trail could attract visitors. Members noted that other states (New Mexico was cited) have seen tourism growth around popular productions.

Committee members and guests raised privacy concerns for private residences that have become fan destinations (for example, the so-called Soprano house) and said the bill is being developed to be respectful of resident privacy. A visitor from Jersey City and other supporters noted that film shoots have brought money to local nonprofits and neighborhood associations by temporarily shutting streets or using parks for filming.

Several tourism and commerce organizations submitted slips in favor (New Jersey Tourism Industry Association, Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey, Visit Atlantic City, Visit South Jersey, Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce). The committee moved and voted to release A4883.

Next steps: The bill is out of committee; stakeholders said they look forward to working on implementation details and privacy safeguards.