New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S1202

Introduced
1/9/24  
Introduced
1/13/26  
Refer
1/9/24  

Caption

Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.

Impact

The anticipated impact of S1202 is significant as it seeks to enhance water management and reduce wastage in public water systems. By imposing a structured approach to water audits, it aims to maintain environmental quality and public health standards. Additionally, the bill facilitates a grant program and provides technical assistance to support compliance, particularly for smaller water providers that may struggle with the financial burdens of implementing comprehensive auditing systems. This initiative is expected to promote efficient water use and improve overall infrastructure resilience.

Summary

Senate Bill S1202 aims to amend the existing 'Water Supply Management Act' to mandate annual water loss audits for public and private water purveyors serving at least 3,300 individuals. This legislation addresses growing concerns around water loss in the state's distribution systems, requiring these entities to submit validated reports to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) starting no later than 24 months after enactment. The bill also directs the DEP to adopt regulations to ensure the audits are conducted in accordance with established standards, specifically utilizing guidelines from the American Water Works Association.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding S1202 appears to be largely supportive, especially from environmental advocates who recognize the need for stringent measures to combat water loss. Proponents argue that the implementation of these audits will lead to better governance of water resources and enhanced transparency regarding water loss issues. However, there may be concerns from some water purveyors regarding the financial and operational implications of mandatory audits, particularly the thresholds which may be perceived as burdensome to smaller purveyors.

Contention

Key points of contention may arise around the compliance costs and the regulations set forth by the DEP following the bill's enactment. Critics could argue that while the goal of reducing water loss is commendable, the logistic and fiscal responsibilities imposed on water purveyors might outweigh the benefits, particularly for those serving smaller population sizes. The balancing act between ensuring regulatory oversight and maintaining local operational flexibility presents an ongoing debate among stakeholders who may have differing priorities regarding water management.

Companion Bills

NJ A2428

Same As Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.

NJ S702

Carry Over Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.

NJ A1675

Carry Over Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.

NJ S986

Carry Over Eliminates demand side management programs from cost recovery through societal benefits charge.

Previously Filed As

NJ S3590

Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.

NJ A1932

Increases accidental death benefit for surviving spouse or surviving children of certain PERS members and retirants; provides accidental death benefit to beneficiary of certain PERS and PFRS members and retirants; redefines child.

NJ S2701

Permits companion to receive PFRS accidental death pension when there is no surviving spouse; requires adjustment of final compensation for calculation of accidental death benefit for surviving spouse, companion, and children of PFRS members.

NJ A3491

Permits companion to receive PFRS accidental death pension when there is no surviving spouse; requires adjustment of final compensation for calculation of accidental death benefit for surviving spouse, companion, and children of PFRS members.

NJ S3536

Increases accidental death benefit for certain members of PERS.

NJ A07949

Permits surviving spouses of NYC police pension fund members to retain accidental death benefits upon remarriage.

NJ S07314

Permits surviving spouses of NYC police pension fund members to retain accidental death benefits upon remarriage.

NJ A1966

Increases accidental death benefit for certain members of PERS.

NJ S10435

Permits surviving spouses of certain members to retain accidental death benefits upon remarriage; provides for regaining of any such lost benefits prior to the rule change.

NJ A3784

Provides accidental death benefit to surviving spouse, surviving child, or surviving parent of a State Police recruit who dies during required pre-service training.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.