New Jersey Assembly Bill A1115

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22
• Report Pass: 3/10/22
• Engrossed: 3/24/22
• Enrolled: 3/24/22
• Chaptered: 5/9/22
• Passed: 5/9/22

Caption

Requires DEP to prioritize funding for environmental infrastructure projects for applicants with established program to employ, at project or related facilities, local residents or residents of nearby urban aid qualifying municipalities.

Impact

This bill significantly impacts state laws concerning the funding and eligibility criteria for environmental infrastructure projects, particularly in the areas of drinking water and wastewater treatment. The Commissioner of the DEP is tasked with developing a priority system and a clean water project priority list, ensuring that funds are allocated based on criteria that include local employment initiatives. By mandating a focus on local hiring, A1115 aims to provide economic benefits to communities in addition to addressing environmental needs.

Summary

A1115 is a legislative initiative aimed at enhancing the prioritization of funding for environmental infrastructure projects within New Jersey. The bill mandates the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to prioritize applicants for funding who have established programs to employ local residents or those from nearby municipalities that qualify for urban aid. This measure is designed to not only improve environmental infrastructure but also foster local employment opportunities, thereby bolstering community involvement in state-funded projects.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding A1115 appears to be positive, with strong support from environmental advocates and labor organizations who view the bill as a progressive step towards integrating employment and environmental sustainability. Supporters believe that funding projects that hire locally not only enhances project efficiency but also stimulates local economies. There may be reservations among some stakeholders about the feasibility of meeting local hiring requirements or the implications for project timelines.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A1115 could include concerns about limitations on who qualifies for project funding, particularly regarding the employment criteria that prioritize local residents. Critics might argue that stringent requirements could limit the pool of applicants for funding and thus delay essential infrastructure improvements. Additionally, there may be debates over how effectively local employment can be integrated into environmental projects without compromising the quality and timelines of those projects.