New Jersey Assembly Bill AR181

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/23
• Refer: 3/20/23

Caption

Urges immediate moratorium on sonar testing and wind turbine mapping due to recent unexplained deaths of marine life off the coast of New Jersey.

Impact

The resolution reflects a growing apprehension about the balance between renewable energy development and the protection of marine ecosystems. It highlights the role of the Department of Environmental Protection and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management in overseeing these projects and the need for rigorous scientific investigations into the implications of sonar and mapping technologies used in this context. The moratorium is seen as a necessary step to evaluate and mitigate potential risks to marine species which have been increasingly observed near offshore wind development sites.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 181 urges an immediate moratorium on sonar testing and wind turbine mapping off the coast of New Jersey due to recent unexplained deaths of marine mammals, specifically whales and dolphins. Recent data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates a significant uptick in these deaths since December 2022, raising concerns among residents, environmentalists, and officials regarding the potential connection between offshore wind energy development activities and marine life mortality. As more offshore wind energy projects are proposed, the resolution is a call for urgency in addressing these environmental concerns.

Contention

This initiative is likely to spark discussions on renewable energy strategies and their environmental implications. Proponents argue that while transitioning to renewable energy is critical, it must not come at the excessive cost of wildlife. Critics may express concerns regarding potential delays in wind energy projects that are essential for reducing reliance on fossil fuels, suggesting a comprehensive analysis must strike a balance between ecological preservation and energy needs. The scrutiny over sonar testing methods and their effects on marine navigation and communication will be pivotal in shaping future regulatory practices.