New Jersey Senate Bill S863

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/22
• Refer: 1/18/22

Caption

Provides State income tax credit for removal of lawns near Barnegat Bay.

Impact

If enacted, S863 would amend the New Jersey Gross Income Tax Act to allow participants to claim the specified tax credit, encouraging ecological stewardship practices among local property owners. The legislation aims to have a positive impact on the health of the Barnegat Bay watershed by fostering a shift away from conventional lawn care practices that rely heavily on harmful chemicals. This aligns with broader environmental regulatory strategies that seek to protect aquatic ecosystems from nutrient pollution caused by residential landscaping.

Summary

Bill S863, introduced by Senator James W. Holzapfel, aims to provide a recurring annual tax credit of $250 to homeowners in New Jersey who replace traditional grass lawns within 1,000 feet of Barnegat Bay and its tributaries with low-maintenance landscaping alternatives, such as stones or crushed shells. The primary objective of the bill is to reduce the infiltration of lawn fertilizers and chemical agents into the bay, which are identified as major contributors to the degradation of its water quality and ecosystems. This initiative represents a proactive approach to environmental conservation while also incentivizing homeowners to adopt more sustainable landscaping practices.

Contention

Despite its ecological intentions, the bill could face scrutiny from various stakeholders, including environmentalists who may argue that the approach does not go far enough in addressing the sources of pollution impacting Barnegat Bay. Furthermore, there could be concerns regarding compliance and enforcement of the rules determining eligible landscaping practices. Discussions around the bill likely highlight the balance between encouraging homeowner participation and ensuring that the law effectively safeguards the natural environment against pollution from residential areas.