New Jersey Assembly Bill A5405

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

Caption

Makes FY2025 supplemental appropriation of $100,000 from General Fund to Department of Environmental Protection for avian carcass removal and disposal.

Impact

The approved funds may be utilized by the Division of Fish and Wildlife within the DEP for avian carcass removal activities, which can also extend to local governments. This provision indicates a collaboration between state and local entities, allowing for reimbursements retroactively for the removal of contaminated bird carcasses. The financial allocation is set to enhance local and state efforts to manage public health and environmental safety effectively.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5405 proposes a supplemental appropriation of $100,000 from the General Fund to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for activities related to the removal and disposal of avian carcasses. This bill is primarily a response to the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in 2025, aiming to support public health and environmental efforts associated with wildlife management.

Contention

While the bill itself may not generate significant public debate, the allocation of state funds for specific environmental and health purposes does raise questions around budgeting priorities and the need for such responsive measures. The bill highlights trends in increased funding from state to local levels for urgent environmental issues, suggesting that similar situations might further lead to legislative scrutiny around state appropriations for crisis management.