This bill requires New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to issue special license plate decals to identify electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). It directly affects owners of these vehicles, who would need to obtain the decals to display on their license plates. The key provision amends state law to define "electric vehicle" as any passenger vehicle propelled solely by electric motors or energy storage devices, enabling the MVC to implement this identification system. The decal system aims to provide clear identification for EVs and PHEVs, though the bill does not specify additional benefits or restrictions tied to the decals.
This bill requires New Jersey electric and gas public utilities to reduce customer energy use by specific annual targets: 2% for electricity and 0.75% for natural gas, within five years of implementing efficiency programs. It mandates the Board of Public Utilities to establish performance metrics and review targets every three years, considering factors like weather, economic conditions, and new technologies like electric vehicles. Utilities must design programs with a benefit-to-cost ratio of at least 1.0, using existing efficiency measures and building codes to meet these goals. The bill directly affects all electric and gas utilities serving New Jersey customers, shifting focus from revenue incentives to measurable energy reduction outcomes.
This bill clarifies New Jersey's rules for maintaining underground storage tanks (USTs), directly affecting tank owners and operators. It requires the state environmental agency to establish testing schedules based on tank age, location, and risk factors, adopt safety standards matching federal EPA guidelines (with stricter rules in wellhead protection areas), and mandate reporting of leaks and cleanup efforts. Owners must designate a responsible person for compliance, maintain records, and prove financial responsibility for environmental cleanup. The state must incorporate these rules into the construction code within 60 days.
This bill requires businesses selling lithium-ion electric vehicles in New Jersey to provide prospective buyers with a standardized disclosure statement. The statement must explain that lithium mining impacts ecosystems, lithium reserves are increasingly scarce, and identify the specific lithium source used in the vehicle's battery. Sellers must obtain a signed receipt from each buyer acknowledging receipt of this disclosure, with violations carrying civil penalties of $150 for first offenses and $300 for repeat violations. The bill is currently pending in the Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee, with implementation delayed until at least one year after enactment.
This bill (A 3718) creates the Highlands Conservation Trust to permanently preserve environmentally sensitive lands in New Jersey's Highlands Region. The Trust will acquire and manage land to protect natural resources like forests, watersheds, and wildlife habitats, preserve historic sites, and provide passive recreation opportunities. It will fund its work primarily through revenue from special "Highlands Conservation" license plates sold to vehicle owners. The Trust is governed by a seven-member board appointed by the Governor and state officials, with land acquisition focused on areas defined under existing Highlands protection laws.
This bill (A 3367) establishes a one-year pilot program within New Jersey's Department of Agriculture to support bee populations by reimbursing homeowners up to $250 and businesses up to $500 for converting lawns into bee-friendly habitats. The program, funded by a $1 million appropriation, requires the department to develop application guidelines, eligibility criteria, an informational website, and a list of approved native plants. Homeowners and businesses must convert lawns to include sufficient food-providing plants, forbs, or legumes to qualify for reimbursement. The department must submit a report within six months of the program's end detailing participation, effectiveness, and recommendations for future action.
This bill provides tax credits for businesses purchasing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and converting commercial fleets to zero-emission vehicles. It allows a 50% credit (capped at $1,000 per charging station) for station purchases/installation and up to $100,000 for qualifying zero-emission vehicles based on weight (e.g., $25,000 for under 14,000 lbs). Businesses must apply for certification from the Environmental Protection Commissioner, including proof of purchase and installation, within 90 days. The credits apply to both corporation business tax and gross income tax, with unused credits carryable for up to seven years. The policy directly affects commercial entities investing in EV infrastructure and fleet transitions.
This bill requires owners of older residential buildings (constructed before 1987 with three or more units), schools, and child care centers to test drinking water for lead every three years. Testing must be done by a certified lab, with results posted online and provided to tenants, parents, or staff. If lead levels exceed EPA standards, owners must notify local health agencies, municipal leaders, and affected individuals in writing. The law applies immediately and exempts properties already covered by prior testing requirements.
This bill, now enacted as P.L.2025, c.202, prohibits the intentional addition of PFAS (forever chemicals) to most cosmetics sold in New Jersey starting two years after its effective date. It requires cookware manufacturers containing PFAS to notify consumers about their presence. The law directly affects cosmetics and cookware manufacturers, while protecting residents by reducing exposure to PFAS linked to health risks. Key mechanisms include specific product bans, disclosure requirements, and funding for PFAS research and remediation programs. The bill does not apply to trace PFAS from manufacturing impurities or products with PFAS only in internal components.
This bill requires developers of new affordable housing projects (10+ units or 4+ stories) to meet LEED Silver or equivalent green building standards. It also mandates that these developers submit four impact studies to local municipalities before construction: traffic, school, storm water, and carbon (if clearing over one acre of land). The requirements apply to "inclusionary developments" as defined under existing law and do not affect projects with applications submitted before the bill's effective date. The bill directs the Commissioner of Community Affairs to adopt implementing rules within eight months of enactment.
