1TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Did you know it’s illegal to move homeless individuals from one municipality or county to another in New Jersey without formal approval? A growing controversy in Toms River is bringing renewed attention to this little-known state law.

According to New Jersey Revised Statute 44:1-124, it is a misdemeanor to bring or send a poor person into another municipality or county without first getting consent from the local welfare overseer or county welfare board. The law is meant to prevent jurisdictions from shifting the responsibility of care without oversight.

In Toms River, Mayor Dan Rodrick is accusing county officials of violating this statute by bringing homeless individuals into the township without permission. Rodrick claims the transfers are politically motivated and

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