Bill > A6036

Introduced Session

This bill directs the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in consultation with institutions of higher education and private sector technology companies, to develop and implement an artificial intelligence (AI) tool for predicting and mapping flood risk throughout New Jersey. The AI tool will utilize satellite imagery, historical and projected rainfall data, and climate models to identify high-risk flood zones at the block or neighborhood level. To enhance the accuracy and utility of the tool, the bill also requires the incorporation, to the extent practicable, of additional data sources such as river height monitoring devices, meteorological and stormwater sensors, National Weather Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration mapping resources and the Federal Emergency Management Agency's floodplain maps. The bill requires the DEP to make the AI tool publicly accessible and to ensure continuous updates and performance improvements through ongoing data collection. To support its development and deployment, the bill authorizes the DEP to enter into agreements with public and private entities, including institutions of higher education. The bill also permits the creation of a grant program to fund contributions of technical expertise, data, or infrastructure relevant to the AI tool. All contracts and awards must be publicly disclosed. Finally, the bill authorizes the DEP to adopt rules and regulations to implement its provisions. The purpose of this legislation is to modernize and enhance the State's ability to predict, prepare for, and mitigate flood risk using cutting-edge AI technology, data integration, and interagency collaboration.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Chris Tully (D)*, 

Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Hearing (14:00:00 12/4/2025 Committee Room 13, 4th Floor, State House Annex, Trenton, NJ) (on 12/04/2025)

Official Document