New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3620

Introduced
9/19/24  
Refer
9/19/24  
Report Pass
10/10/24  
Engrossed
10/28/24  
Refer
10/28/24  
Report Pass
12/9/24  
Engrossed
2/27/25  
Enrolled
3/24/25  
Chaptered
4/22/25  

Caption

Requires electric and gas public utilities to establish "Energy Bill Watch" program and include certain information in bills and notices to customers.

Impact

The introduction of S3620 would notably amend existing environmental regulations, making provisions that prioritize clean energy and impose stricter limits on pollutants. These changes are set to influence how industries operate, potentially leading to increased costs for companies that fail to comply with the new standards. Consequently, the bill is expected to foster a more environmentally conscious economy that emphasizes both compliance and innovation in green technologies.

Summary

Bill S3620 aims to enhance environmental protections through the promotion of clean energy initiatives and stricter regulations on pollution. It sets forth measures designed to incentivize the development and use of renewable energy sources while penalizing excessive emissions from industrial sectors. The bill signifies a shift towards more robust state-level initiatives aimed at combating climate change and encouraging sustainability across various industries, thereby impacting both businesses and residents in the state.

Sentiment

General sentiment regarding S3620 appears to be mixed. Supporters, which include environmental advocacy groups and many policymakers, view the bill as a pivotal step towards achieving sustainability goals and addressing climate change. They argue that investing in clean energy is not only beneficial for the environment but also for economic growth in the long run. However, opponents of the bill have raised concerns about the immediate financial burdens it may impose on businesses, particularly small enterprises, which may struggle to adapt to new regulations quickly.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S3620 include the balance between environmental responsibility and economic viability. Critics argue that the stringent regulations may hamper industrial growth and lead to job losses in sectors that rely heavily on traditional energy sources. Proponents counter this by emphasizing the potential for job creation in the renewable energy sector and the long-term economic benefits of a sustainable approach to environmental management. The debate highlights a critical junction between environmental policy and economic priorities, with advocates on both sides passionately defending their positions.

Companion Bills

NJ A4817

Same As Requires electric and gas public utilities to establish "Energy Bill Watch" program and include certain information in bills and notices to customers.

Similar Bills

NJ A4817

Requires electric and gas public utilities to establish "Energy Bill Watch" program and include certain information in bills and notices to customers.

NJ A841

Requires BPU, electric power suppliers, and gas suppliers to publish certain information related to filing of customer complaints.

AZ SB1410

Auto glass; repair; penalties

NJ S223

Directs BPU to establish certain standards concerning electric public utility use of customer energy usage data.

NJ S1924

Requires account numbers to be truncated on certain sales receipts.

TX SB2194

Relating to the regulation of retail electric providers.

CO HB1175

Smart Meter Opt-In Program

TX SB1279

Relating to the regulation of certain retail electric products.