New Jersey Assembly Bill A2217

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/7/22

Caption

Requires report and public hearing prior to DEP recommendation of site for inclusion on Superfund list.

Impact

By requiring public participation and extensive reporting, A2217 aims to enhance accountability and ensure that local stakeholders have a voice in environmental decisions that affect their communities. It demands that the DEP not only assess the condition of sites but also the potential risks posed to both human health and the environment from hazardous substances. This regulatory requirement is positioned to support a more informed decision-making process related to site clean-up and safety measures.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2217 mandates that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) must conduct a comprehensive report and public hearing before recommending a site for inclusion on the federal Superfund list. This process is essential to ensure transparency and public engagement regarding sites that may pose health or environmental risks due to hazardous substances. The bill outlines specific steps that the DEP must take, including preparing detailed reports, notifying local officials, and facilitating community input through public hearings.

Contention

Opponents of the bill may argue that the additional layers of reporting and public hearings could delay the inclusion of sites on the National Priorities List, ultimately hindering timely remediation efforts. They might also express concern about the administrative burden this places on the DEP and local governments. Nonetheless, proponents believe that by fostering community involvement and providing thorough assessments, the bill will lead to better outcomes for environmental health and safety.