New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A121

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Makes $500,000 supplemental appropriation from General Fund to DEP for dredging and restoration of Peckman River.

Impact

This bill marks a significant commitment to local environmental restoration projects by allocating state funds specifically for the enhancement and maintenance of natural waterways. The financial support to the DEP aims not only to facilitate necessary ecological restoration but also to engage affected municipalities in a collective plan to improve the river's condition. It further represents a step toward addressing environmental concerns that affect water quality and habitat health within the regions impacted by the Peckman River.

Summary

Assembly Bill A121 appropriates an additional $500,000 from the General Fund to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) specifically for the dredging and restoration of the Peckman River. This river serves as a tributary to the Passaic River and flows through several municipalities, including Cedar Grove, Little Falls, Verona, and Woodland Park. The bill outlines the allocation of funds to these municipalities while ensuring an established process for application in securing the funds, reflecting a structured approach to environmental management and community involvement.

Contention

While the bill is poised to benefit local environmental initiatives, there may be differing opinions on the allocation of state resources especially concerning funding priorities. Proponents of the bill are likely to stress the importance of investing in local ecosystems, while critics may question whether additional funding for such projects might detract from other pressing state needs. The potential effects this funding may have on local governance, as well as its contribution to broader state environmental objectives, may lead to discussions among legislators and stakeholders.

Implementation

The bill stipulates that the DEP will establish a joint application process for the municipalities involved, which must detail their collective plans for the dredging and restoration efforts. This ensures that the allocation of funds is both transparent and accountable, with a focus on effective project implementation. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for waiving permit fees associated with activities authorized under state general permits, thus reducing bureaucratic hurdles for municipalities as they undertake these environmental projects.

Companion Bills

NJ A3927

Carry Over Makes $500,000 supplemental appropriation from General Fund to DEP for dredging and restoration of Peckman River.

NJ S2898

Carry Over Makes $500,000 supplemental appropriation from General Fund to DEP for dredging and restoration of Peckman River.

NJ S1164

Same As Makes $500,000 supplemental appropriation from General Fund to DEP for dredging and restoration of Peckman River.

Similar Bills

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.