Bill > ACR119

This concurrent resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to establish comprehensive environmental rights for New Jersey residents. The proposed amendment would create a new constitutional paragraph that guarantees every person the right to a clean and healthy environment, specifically including pure water, clean air, and ecologically healthy habitats, as well as the preservation of natural, scenic, historic, and aesthetic environmental qualities. The State would be prohibited from infringing on these rights through either action or inaction. Furthermore, the resolution declares that public natural resources such as waters, air, flora, fauna, climate, and public lands are the common property of all people, including both current and future generations, with the State serving as a trustee responsible for conserving and maintaining these resources for the benefit of all. The amendment is designed to be self-executing and would complement existing rights under public trust doctrine and common law. If approved by voters in a general election, the amendment would become part of the New Jersey Constitution, empowering residents with explicit constitutional protections for environmental rights and establishing the State's obligation to protect natural resources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/ACR119