Amends Constitution to prohibit construction of new fossil fuel power plants.
Impact
If enacted, SCR17 would formally amend the New Jersey Constitution, creating a legal barrier against the development of new fossil fuel facilities. This change is significant as it would prevent state authorities from approving any new power plants that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The amendment does, however, include provisions for the maintenance and repair of existing facilities, ensuring that current operations can continue without disruption. Supporters argue that this measure is essential for environmental protection and fulfilling New Jersey's commitment to a sustainable future.
Summary
SCR17 is a proposed constitutional amendment in New Jersey that seeks to prohibit the construction of new fossil fuel power plants within the state. The amendment targets power generation facilities that operate on coal, oil, natural gas, and other petroleum products. This initiative comes amid growing concerns over climate change and its impacts, including increased temperatures, severe storms, and rising sea levels, which have been particularly pronounced in New Jersey. The amendment aims to align state actions with wider climate goals, such as the Global Warming Response Act, which sets ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Contention
The bill has sparked notable debate regarding energy needs and economic implications. Advocates highlight the necessity of transitioning away from fossil fuels for ecological reasons, arguing that existing plants are major pollutants. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns about potential impacts on energy supply and job losses in the fossil fuel sector. The broader impact on energy costs and availability for residents is also likely to be a contentious point in discussions surrounding this proposed amendment.
Proposes amendment to New Jersey Constitution to prohibit exclusionary zoning and clarify municipal obligations regarding affordable housing construction.
Proposes amendment to New Jersey Constitution to prohibit exclusionary zoning and clarify municipal obligations regarding affordable housing construction.
Repeals provisions of law relating to prohibiting the installation of fossil-fuel equipment and building systems in new construction and to establishing decarbonization action plans for state-owned facilities.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.