Bill > S1444

This bill prohibits sewerage authorities (public agencies responsible for managing wastewater systems) from charging new connection fees or tapping fees for properties that have been connected to the sewerage system for 20 or more years, with some specific conditions. The bill clarifies that this prohibition applies regardless of whether the property has been in active use during that time, but allows sewerage authorities to still impose fees if the proposed changes require modifying or relocating the existing sewer connection. The definition of "redevelopment" is intentionally broad and not limited to official redevelopment projects. Additionally, the bill mandates that if a sewerage authority previously charged an unauthorized connection fee and the property owner paid it under protest, the authority must reimburse the amount paid. The legislation takes effect immediately upon enactment, providing property owners with protection against what could be considered redundant or unnecessary connection fees for long-established sewer connections.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S1444