New Jersey Senate Bill S1833

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires air monitoring at certain construction projects.

Impact

The legislation aims to ensure that hazardous air pollutants and particulates are monitored consistently throughout construction projects, thereby enforcing stricter air quality controls. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is tasked with adopting rules and regulations to define monitoring standards and the specific pollutants that will be regulated. This could result in higher operational standards for construction projects, potentially increasing compliance costs but ultimately leading to improved air quality and public health outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill 1833 requires that air quality be monitored at certain construction projects in New Jersey. Specifically, the bill mandates that any application for a construction permit must include either a certification that the project will cause minimal soil disturbance or a detailed air monitoring plan for hazardous air pollutants and particulates. This requirement emphasizes the importance of maintaining air quality during construction activities, particularly in densely populated areas where the risks of air contamination can significantly impact public health.

Contention

Concerns may arise regarding the practicality and economics of implementing this air monitoring requirement. Critics could argue that the additional certification and monitoring plans may burden construction developers financially and logistically. Nevertheless, supporters will likely advocate that these steps are necessary to prevent health hazards associated with construction-related air pollution, particularly in vulnerable communities. The discussion may also involve debates about the adequacy of existing environmental regulations and whether this bill sufficiently addresses the risks posed by hazardous pollutants.