Bill > A3079

Introduced Session

This bill requires the Department of Environmental Protection (department) to establish the "Smart Stormwater Sensor Pilot Program" through which counties and municipalities may cause to be installed smart sensors in storm drains and flood prone infrastructure. This program aims to reduce flood risks and enhance community preparedness through real-time monitoring and early warning capabilities. In order to facilitate this pilot program, the bill requires the department to establish a grant program to distribute funding to applicant local government units. A local government electing to participate in the program is to submit to the department an application that meets specific criteria outlined in the bill, including requirements that stormwater management sensors monitor water levels in real time and alert local residents and agencies to possible flood events. Upon review of applications, and subject to the availability of funds, the department will award grants funds equitably to approved applicants. Further, the bill requires the department to submit a report to the Governor and the Legislature evaluating the effectiveness of the program in monitoring water levels and providing timely flood alerts; summarizing grant recipients and the geographic distribution of installed sensors; analyzing challenges encountered during installation, operation, and maintenance; recommending program improvements; and providing considerations for the potential expansion or permanent adoption of a smart stormwater sensor program. The bill appropriates $1 million from the General Fund to the department to implement the provisions of the bill. The appropriation would finance application review, grant awards, and program outcome reports.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Chris Tully (D)*, 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee (on 01/13/2026)

Official Document