New Jersey Senate Bill S2160

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Makes $100 million in federal funds available to DEP for grants to local governments for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure projects.

Impact

The DEP is mandated to create eligibility and ranking criteria for applicants, which should be published on its website within six months from the bill's effective date. At least 10 percent of the grant funds are specifically earmarked for projects aimed at reducing harmful algal blooms in Lake Hopatcong and Greenwood Lake. This particular focus demonstrates an environmental emphasis within the bill, which not only addresses infrastructure concerns but also promotes ecological health in specific areas of New Jersey.

Summary

Senate Bill S2160 proposes the allocation of $100 million in federal funds to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for a grant program aimed at supporting local governments with infrastructure projects related to drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater. This initiative is part of the federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which the state received to help recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill seeks to establish a structured grant application process while ensuring transparency in the selection criteria for local governments seeking these funds.

Contention

Key points of discussion surrounding S2160 include the allocation process and the effectiveness of such grants in addressing long-standing infrastructure issues. Advocates argue that the infusion of federal money through this bill is crucial for enhancing local water systems and mitigating environmental hazards like algal blooms. However, critics may highlight the necessity of continuous funding and monitoring, stressing that one-time grants could be insufficient for sustained improvements or management of state water resources in the long term.