New Jersey Senate Bill S2751

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/24
• Refer: 2/15/24
• Report Pass: 6/12/25

Caption

Directs DEP to develop guidelines concerning State and local government purchase of goods made from recycled material.

Impact

If S2751 is enacted, state and local agencies will be required to consider these guidelines when preparing specifications for new procurement contracts. This requirement seeks to encourage agencies to maximize their purchases of recycled goods, fostering a greater market for recycled materials and promoting environmental responsibility among public sector entities. However, the bill also includes provisions that can exempt agencies from adhering to these guidelines in certain circumstances, such as when abidance would delay project completion or significantly increase costs.

Summary

S2751 directs the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop and maintain guidelines regarding the purchase of goods made from recycled materials by state and local government entities. This legislation aims to promote the use of recyclable products and enhance sustainability in government procurement processes. The bill mandates the DEP to establish recommended content percentages for recycled materials within 90 days of the bill's enactment. These guidelines are to be reflective of standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, thus aligning state practices with federal recommendations.

Contention

During discussions surrounding the bill, there may be some contention regarding the practical implications of enforcing these guidelines, especially concerning costs and the potential burden imposed on local governments. Critics could argue that stringent requirements may lead to increased procurement costs or could complicate existing procurement processes, while proponents would contend that the long-term benefits of environmental sustainability and creating a market for recycled products outweigh any short-term challenges. Ultimately, S2751 aims to create more robust framework within which government operations can contribute to environmental conservation.