Proposes constitutional amendment to make State trustee of public natural resources and guarantee to the people other environmental rights.
Impact
The amendment would establish specific environmental rights, preventing state actions that could violate these proclaimed rights. It asserts that not only does every individual have the right to a clean environment, but it also mandates that the state must actively preserve and protect public natural resources. This could lead to stronger environmental regulations and accountability against any activities that threaten air and water quality or biodiversity. Moreover, by categorizing these resources as public properties, the amendment enhances community rights to a healthy atmosphere and ecosystem.
Summary
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 119 (ACR119) proposes a significant amendment to the New Jersey Constitution that aims to guarantee every resident the right to a clean and healthy environment. If passed, the amendment would formalize this right by enshrining it in the state's Constitution and stipulating that the State will act as the trustee of its natural resources, including air, water, flora, fauna, and public lands. This resolution reflects a growing recognition of environmental rights as fundamental and seeks to protect these resources for both current and future generations.
Contention
While many environmental advocates support ACR119 for its potential to fortify ecological protections, some stakeholders might express concerns over the implications of such constitutional changes. Critics may argue that adding environmental rights could lead to increased litigation or regulatory burdens that might affect economic activities and land use. Furthermore, questions may arise regarding the definition of a 'clean and healthy environment' and the practical involvement of the state in mitigating environmental issues, which could spark debates among legislators and constituents alike.
Encouraging Future Legislatures To Pass A Proposed Constitutional Amendment, And The Electorate To Ratify The Proposed Amendment, Guaranteeing All Individuals The Right To A Clean And Healthy Environment And A Stable Climate.
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.