New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2285

Introduced

1/9/24

Refer

1/9/24

Caption

Establishes fund for DEP for Blue Acres acquisition and relocation projects; appropriates $25 million.

Impact

The implementation of A2285 is expected to impact state laws concerning environmental management and disaster response. The bill allows the DEP to administer the funds judiciously, ensuring that no more than five percent of the allocated funds are used for administrative costs, which aligns the focus towards relocation efforts. By creating this fund, the state reinforces its commitment to addressing environmental challenges while supporting affected families during transitions caused by flood-related policies.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2285 establishes the Blue Acres Buyout Fund within the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), designed to facilitate the acquisition of properties in flood-prone areas as part of the Blue Acres program. By allocating $25 million from the General Fund, the bill aims to provide funding for relocation assistance to homeowners and tenants displaced due to these acquisitions. This act signifies a proactive approach to manage flood risks and enhance community resilience against environmental hazards.

Contention

While the bill essentially advocates for environmental response measures, there may be points of contention regarding its financial implications. Some stakeholders might argue that the $25 million appropriation could divert funds from other essential programs within the DEP or local governments. Additionally, the broad authority given to the DEP for fund administration might raise concerns about the prioritization of projects and the overall transparency in how relocation assistance is distributed. Discussions could arise over ensuring that the implementation of this program adequately considers the needs of diverse communities affected by flooding.

Latest NJ A2285 Activity

View All Events: NJ 2024-2025 Regular Session A2285

Companion Bills

NJ S1624

Same As Establishes fund for DEP for Blue Acres acquisition and relocation projects; appropriates $25 million.

NJ A4869

Carry Over Establishes fund for DEP for Blue Acres acquisition and relocation projects; appropriates $25 million.

NJ S3401

Carry Over Establishes fund for DEP for Blue Acres acquisition and relocation projects; appropriates $25 million.

Previously Filed As

NJ A3477

Establishes fund in DEP for Blue Acres acquisition and relocation projects; appropriates $25 million.

NJ A3058

Establishes Deepfake Technology Unit in DLPS; appropriates $2 million.

NJ A2252

Increases Work First New Jersey Child Care appropriation by $28 million in FY2026 annual appropriations act to ensure full funding of child care subsidy program.

NJ S4223

Authorizes payment of relocation costs under Blue Acres program.

NJ A1873

Requires DEP to prioritize funding for certain projects for acquisition of lands for recreation and conservation purposes and certain environmental infrastructure projects that include, or allow for, flood mitigation projects.

NJ A2328

Appropriates $55 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues for recreation and conservation purposes and various Green Acres funds to DEP for State capital and park development projects.

NJ S4423

Appropriates $77,406,208 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and various Green Acres funds to DEP for local government open space acquisition and park development projects, and for certain administrative expenses.

NJ A1519

Directs Department of Agriculture to advertise and promote State aquaculture products through Jersey Fresh Program; establishes annual $25,000 appropriation.

NJ A1769

Establishes Water Apprenticeship, Training, and Employment Resources (WATER) Pilot Program in DOLWD; appropriates $1 million.

NJ A3923

Establishes disaster relief grant program to provide municipalities with training, supply stockpiles, and technology to assist residents with certain applications; appropriates $5 million.

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