New Jersey Senate Bill S3331

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/3/24
• Refer: 6/3/24

Caption

Makes supplemental appropriation of $12 million to Village of Ridgewood for drinking water infrastructure improvements related to per- and poly-fluoralkyl substance pollution.

Impact

The introduction of S3331 is intended to alleviate the potential for substantial rate increases that Ridgewood Water would need to impose on its customers, aiming to maintain affordable drinking water rates while upgrading necessary infrastructure. The use of state funding for these improvements also underscores the state's role in supporting local governments, especially in managing environmental concerns that can lead to public health risks related to contaminated water supplies.

Summary

Senate Bill S3331 proposes a supplemental appropriation of $12 million to the Village of Ridgewood, New Jersey, aimed at addressing significant infrastructure improvements in the local drinking water system. The legislation specifically targets the mitigation of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have raised public health concerns due to their association with adverse health effects. The bill seeks to provide financial relief to the Ridgewood Water Department, which serves a population of over 60,000 residents across several municipalities, including Midland Park, Glen Rock, and Wyckoff.

Contention

While the bill presents a proactive approach to addressing PFAS pollution and protecting public health, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of state funds and the long-term management of drinking water infrastructure. Discussions may revolve around how state appropriations are determined, and whether this measure adequately addresses the larger issue of PFAS contamination statewide. Additionally, the effectiveness of the proposed infrastructure improvements and their impact on water safety will likely be scrutinized as the bill advances through legislative processes.