Makes FY2025 supplemental appropriation of $10 million for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Grant Program.
Impact
By providing financial resources to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement, AB A5162 aims to bolster the state's preparedness for managing UAS incidents. This funding will empower local agencies to address public concerns over drone operations and sightings, ensuring that they can operate within the legal frameworks established by federal and state laws. Consequently, this could lead to improved safety measures, stricter adherence to regulations, and better coordination among agencies responsible for aerial surveillance and security.
Summary
Assembly Bill A5162 proposes a supplemental appropriation of $10 million for the Fiscal Year 2025 to establish an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Grant Program. The bill is introduced against the backdrop of increasing concerns regarding unidentifiable drone sightings within New Jersey's airspace, which pose potential threats to critical infrastructure and public safety. The funds allocated through this bill are intended to assist state and local officials in procuring necessary equipment and training to respond effectively to these challenges.
Contention
Discussion surrounding A5162 may focus on the balance between enhancing security measures and the implications for privacy and civil liberties. While proponents argue that the bill is essential for public safety, opponents may voice concerns about increased surveillance capabilities and the potential misuse of funds. As the deployment of drones continues to expand across various sectors, the establishment of such grant programs could lead to significant debates over regulatory measures that govern drone use and associated law enforcement practices.
Makes supplemental appropriation of $20 million for provision of Summer Tuition Aid Grants in summer 2025; provides conditional authority for transfer of additional resources to Summer Tuition Aid Grants account.
Makes FY2025 supplemental appropriation of $2 million from General Fund to Department of Agriculture in support of Northeast Organic Farming Association for certain programs.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.