New Jersey Senate Bill S1002

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Directs DEP to develop State water infrastructure investment plan; requires NJ Infrastructure Bank to publish additional information about water infrastructure projects; appropriates $200,000 to NJ Infrastructure Bank.

Impact

The bill will have a significant impact on state laws regarding water infrastructure by mandating a systematic and transparent approach to capital investment. Specifically, it requires detailed assessments of needs and financial strategies to support infrastructure projects. The legislation emphasizes public involvement by ensuring that the DEP conducts at least three public meetings for stakeholder input during the planning process. This approach not only fosters community engagement but also ensures that the infrastructure investments are aligned with the needs and concerns of the public.

Summary

Senate Bill S1002 aims to enhance the state’s water infrastructure through the establishment of a State Water Infrastructure Investment Plan. This plan is to be developed by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) every five years, in consultation with relevant stakeholders such as the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (NJIB) and the Board of Public Utilities. The primary focus of the bill is to outline a long-term strategy that addresses the upgrading and maintenance of the state's drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater systems, ensuring they meet public health and environmental safety standards.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S1002 may concern the potential burden on local governments and the allocation of resources for implementation. Critics may argue that while the bill aims to streamline infrastructure investment, it could lead localities to rely more heavily on state guidelines, potentially diluting local priorities. Moreover, the appropriation of $200,000 to develop and maintain an infrastructure project tracking website might raise questions about fiscal responsibility and the effectiveness of such investments. Stakeholders will likely debate the balance between state control and local autonomy as the bill progresses.