New Jersey Senate Bill S3338

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/1/22
• Refer: 12/1/22

Caption

Requires DEP to prioritize funding for certain projects for acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes and certain environmental infrastructure projects that include, or allow for, flood mitigation projects.

Impact

The bill amends existing laws related to the Green Acres Program and the Environmental Infrastructure Financing Program. It establishes criteria to prioritize projects that not only address traditional environmental concerns but also incorporate flood risk reduction measures. This amendment means that any future funding lists compiled by the DEP must consider these additional priorities, directly affecting how budgetary resources are allocated within environmental programs. Consequently, it can lead to a greater emphasis on sustainability and disaster preparedness within state funding frameworks.

Summary

Senate Bill 3338 requires the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to prioritize funding for projects aimed at the acquisition of lands designated for recreation and conservation, as well as for specific environmental infrastructure projects that incorporate flood mitigation strategies. This legislative measure emphasizes the importance of integrating flood managing capabilities into various projects to enhance the state’s resilience to storm-related flooding. The goal is to provide additional priority points to projects that meet these criteria, facilitating a more strategic allocation of resources toward necessary environmental initiatives.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding this bill include debates on the proper allocation of resources and the balance between funding new projects versus maintaining existing infrastructure. Critics may argue that while flood mitigation is essential, the prioritization of these specific projects could divert funding from other critical areas within environmental conservation efforts. Furthermore, the effectiveness of prioritizing flood mitigation in reviewing and funding decisions will likely be closely monitored, as stakeholders evaluate outcomes from the implementation of this bill.