Bill > S4796

This bill amends the environmental infrastructure funding program for fiscal year 2026, updating the lists of clean water and drinking water projects eligible for loans from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The bill increases the total funding authorization from $2.4 billion to $2.69 billion, covering a total of 218 infrastructure projects across clean water and drinking water categories. Key changes include adding new projects, removing some existing projects, and modifying loan amounts for various municipalities and utilities across New Jersey. The bill maintains the existing program's structure of providing zero-interest and principal-forgiveness loans to help local governments and water utilities finance critical infrastructure improvements. Specific provisions allow for loan adjustments based on project costs, compliance with environmental regulations, and affordability criteria, with special considerations for projects addressing emerging contaminants, combined sewer overflows, and lead service line replacements. The bill also preserves the existing funding mechanisms from various state and federal sources, including the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, and federal infrastructure investment programs. The loans can be used for a wide range of water infrastructure needs, including system upgrades, water quality improvements, flood protection, and emergency response capabilities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4796