Establishes fund for DEP for Blue Acres acquisition and relocation projects; appropriates $25 million.
Impact
The implementation of A2285 is expected to impact state laws concerning environmental management and disaster response. The bill allows the DEP to administer the funds judiciously, ensuring that no more than five percent of the allocated funds are used for administrative costs, which aligns the focus towards relocation efforts. By creating this fund, the state reinforces its commitment to addressing environmental challenges while supporting affected families during transitions caused by flood-related policies.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2285 establishes the Blue Acres Buyout Fund within the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), designed to facilitate the acquisition of properties in flood-prone areas as part of the Blue Acres program. By allocating $25 million from the General Fund, the bill aims to provide funding for relocation assistance to homeowners and tenants displaced due to these acquisitions. This act signifies a proactive approach to manage flood risks and enhance community resilience against environmental hazards.
Contention
While the bill essentially advocates for environmental response measures, there may be points of contention regarding its financial implications. Some stakeholders might argue that the $25 million appropriation could divert funds from other essential programs within the DEP or local governments. Additionally, the broad authority given to the DEP for fund administration might raise concerns about the prioritization of projects and the overall transparency in how relocation assistance is distributed. Discussions could arise over ensuring that the implementation of this program adequately considers the needs of diverse communities affected by flooding.
Appropriates $49.5 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to DEP for State acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes, including Blue Acres projects, and Green Acres Program administrative costs.
Appropriates $48 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to DEP for State acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes, including Blue Acres projects, and Green Acres Program administrative costs.
Appropriates $48 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to DEP for State acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes, including Blue Acres projects, and Green Acres Program administrative costs.
Appropriates $49.5 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to DEP for State acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes, including Blue Acres projects, and Green Acres Program administrative costs.
Appropriates $53,249,310 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to DEP for State acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes, including Blue Acres projects, and Green Acres Program administrative costs.
Appropriates $53,249,310 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to DEP for State acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes, including Blue Acres projects, and Green Acres Program administrative costs.
Provides FY 2024 supplemental appropriations to, and establishes "Drinking Water Emergency Response Fund" in, DEP; appropriates $6.85 million to fund and various divisions of DEP.
Appropriates $87,783,515 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and various Green Acres funds to DEP for local government open space acquisition and park development projects, and for certain administrative expenses.
Appropriates $101,696,535 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to DEP for local government open space acquisition and park development projects; and for certain administrative expenses.
Appropriates $87,783,515 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and various Green Acres funds to DEP for local government open space acquisition and park development projects, and for certain administrative expenses.