New Jersey Assembly Bill A5153

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/19/24
• Refer: 12/19/24
• Refer: 1/27/25

Caption

Makes annual allocation of $500,000 from Clean Communities Program Fund for public outreach concerning single-use plastics reduction program permanent.

Impact

The bill directly impacts state laws by ensuring a sustained funding source for the Clean Communities Program, specifically targeting the reduction of single-use plastics. This permanent allocation is crucial for the successful outreach and education initiatives that are meant to influence community behavior towards better waste management and reduction practices. By having this funding anchored in law, it ensures that the program can continue its efforts, thereby promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship across New Jersey.

Summary

Bill A5153 seeks to make the annual allocation of $500,000 from the Clean Communities Program Fund to the Department of Environmental Protection permanently allocated for public outreach efforts concerning the reduction of single-use plastics. This bill is a continuation of efforts, initiated under P.L.2020, c.117, aimed at minimizing the use of single-use plastics in New Jersey and enhancing public awareness about its consequences. The allotted funds will be used for education and implementation of strategies to fight plastic waste in the state.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill regarding its funding and the effectiveness of public outreach programs. Some stakeholders might argue that merely funding public awareness campaigns may not suffice to combat the issues associated with single-use plastics effectively. Critics may point to the need for more stringent regulations or bans on single-use plastics rather than relying solely on educational measures. Additionally, the allocation of funds could also be debated in terms of equity across municipalities, primarily if larger urban areas benefit disproportionately compared to smaller communities.