New Jersey Assembly Bill A1290

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires DEP to submit annual financial report on status of certain fund balances.

Impact

The enactment of A1290 aims to enhance fiscal transparency and accountability within the DEP, a critical agency tasked with managing the state's environmental resources. By requiring the DEP to document and report financial statuses annually, the bill is poised to provide greater insight into how public funds are utilized. It also signifies a move towards improved governmental transparency, potentially fostering public trust in the management of environmental and financial resources.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1290 introduces requirements for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to provide annual financial reports to both the Governor and the Legislature. This act mandates that by March 1 of each year, the DEP must present a detailed account of the appropriated and unappropriated balances from various funding sources under its jurisdiction. These sources include federal contributions, special fees, and revenues dedicated to specific programs, ensuring legislative oversight over these 'off-budget' accounts not typically scrutinized by the public.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding A1290 may include concerns from the DEP regarding the administrative burden that annual reporting might entail. Critics might argue that the focus on financial reporting could divert resources and attention from environmental protection efforts. Furthermore, there may be debates on the adequacy of current funding mechanisms for the DEP and whether additional oversight is necessary to ensure the agency's efficacy in managing environmental priorities.