New Jersey Assembly Bill A2104

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Report Pass: 12/12/24
• Engrossed: 12/19/24
• Refer: 1/14/25

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 enactment of A2104 would result in a significant shift in how environmental projects are prioritized for funding within New Jersey. By assigning additional priority points to projects that either incorporate flood mitigation strategies or are designated as 'Blue Acres projects', the bill seeks to enhance the state's response to flooding risks and climate change. This could lead to more proactive measures in disaster risk management and resource allocation concerning vulnerable ecosystems. Overall, A2104 intends to establish a more systematic approach to funding decisions that will benefit both communities and environmental sustainability.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2104 mandates that the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) prioritize funding for specific projects aimed at the acquisition of lands for recreational and conservation purposes. This includes environmental infrastructure projects that either include or facilitate flood mitigation initiatives. The goal of the bill is to enhance funding opportunities for projects that actively address environmental concerns, particularly those stemming from storm-related flooding and climate change impacts. It emphasizes the importance of integrating flood mitigation into state-funded projects to ensure environmental resilience.

Contention

Though aimed at promoting environmental responsibility, the bill may face challenges in consensus among diverse stakeholders. Concerns may arise around the criteria for defining eligible projects and the additional bureaucratic processes introduced for funding applications. Additionally, some advocates for local government autonomy might argue that state-level prioritization could undermine local initiatives that address specific community needs. Thus, a comprehensive discussion surrounding the balance between state intervention and local control will be essential as the bill progresses through legislative channels.