New Jersey Assembly Bill AR70

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/7/22

Caption

Affirms importance of upgrading State's natural gas pipeline network by replacing certain infrastructure.

Impact

AR70 signifies a commitment by the New Jersey Assembly to prioritize the upgrade of the natural gas pipeline network, asserting that modernization plays a vital role in securing public health and safety. The resolution emphasizes that by employing new technologies to extract natural gas, residents can benefit from lower electricity and gas bills. Moreover, it advocates for using the savings from decreased energy costs to invest in substantial infrastructure upgrades, which could also stimulate economic development within the state by creating new construction jobs and encouraging businesses to either stay or relocate to New Jersey.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 70 (AR70) seeks to address the aging natural gas pipeline infrastructure throughout New Jersey. This resolution acknowledges the need for replacing outdated pipelines, specifically those from the early 20th century, composed of cast iron and unprotected steel. It highlights the importance of ensuring public safety and the reliability of the natural gas network by affirming that the replacement of pipelines exceeding 100 years is crucial for reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing service delivery. The resolution underscores the pressing need for modernization as a public welfare initiative, aimed primarily at preventing destructive incidents associated with deteriorating gas infrastructure.

Contention

While the resolution outlines positive prospects for both public safety and economic growth, it does not explicitly foster a discussion on potential funding mechanisms or the role of regulatory bodies in overseeing these upgrades. Points of contention may arise regarding the financial implications of such large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly considering the need for sufficient investment. Stakeholders may debate how to effectively manage the costs associated with replacing aging pipelines and the timelines for these projects, where various interest groups might have differing opinions on the urgency and funding strategies required to achieve the outlined goals.