New Jersey Assembly Bill A4200

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/9/22
• Refer: 6/9/22

Caption

Requires DEP and owners of certain reservoirs to implement certain flood control measures; authorizes Office of Emergency Management to order lowering of reservoirs levels in response to severe weather events.

Impact

The introduction of A4200 seeks to implement comprehensive flood control measures across New Jersey by requiring reservoir owners to create and maintain flood action plans. These plans must address the design, construction, and operational aspects of flood mitigation structures, such as flood gates. Furthermore, it empowers the Office of Emergency Management to mandate lower water levels in reservoirs during severe weather events, reflecting a proactive approach to disaster preparedness and water management. This aligns state regulations with contemporary environmental and safety needs.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4200, introduced in New Jersey, mandates the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to identify reservoirs with historic flooding records. For each identified reservoir, the DEP is tasked with studying both the downstream river or stream capacity and the reservoir’s water storage ability. Additionally, the law requires ERA to evaluate the water usage needs of areas served by these reservoirs. The ultimate goal is to establish regulations for maximum water levels that prioritize flood protection while ensuring adequate water supply.

Contention

The bill aims to indemnify reservoir owners against claims arising from potential flood control measures under specific compliance conditions. By fostering collaboration between the DEP and local reservoir owners, A4200 intends to streamline flood management practices, though it may raise concerns among certain stakeholders. There may be debates regarding the extent of governmental control over reservoir operations and the implications this may have on local water resource management, impacting both economic and environmental perspectives.