Bill > SCR122

This concurrent resolution declares that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) proposed rules and regulations known as "New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Change - Resilient Environment and Landscapes" (NJPACT - REAL) are inconsistent with legislative intent. The resolution argues that the DEP has overstepped its constitutional authority by proposing sweeping climate change regulations without explicit legislative approval, potentially impacting property taxes, living costs, and construction expenses in coastal regions. The resolution cites multiple concerns, including the DEP's reliance on outdated or repealed statutes and its failure to acknowledge the limited scope of existing climate change legislation. Under the resolution, the DEP will have 30 days from the resolution's transmittal to amend or withdraw the proposed rules, or the Legislature may use its constitutional power to invalidate the regulations wholly or partially. The underlying principle is that the Executive Branch should not create major policy changes without direct legislative authorization, and that inaction can also represent the Legislature's will.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SCR122