Environment (Air Quality)

This bill authorizes New Jersey to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the existing Air Pollution Control Act and Global Warming Response Act. It directly affects large industrial facilities (defined as "major facilities" emitting over specific thresholds like 100 tons/year of carbon monoxide or 10 tons/year of hazardous pollutants) by requiring them to report emissions annually and pay emission fees. Key provisions include setting statewide emission limits based on the 2007 Global Warming Response Act, mandating annual emission statements, and defining "greenhouse gas" consistently with prior law. The bill creates a framework for tracking and fees but does not establish new emission targets or penalties beyond existing regulatory mechanisms.

This bill requires large warehouses, distribution centers, and ports generating 50+ daily truck trips to obtain a permit from New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and annually implement pollution-reduction measures. It specifically targets facilities in overburdened communities (defined by existing law) with 50,000+ square feet of business space, or all facilities with 100,000+ square feet, mandating shorter permit terms (3 years) for those in overburdened areas. The DEP must establish a program within one year to achieve zero emissions from these facilities by 2050, requiring annual compliance demonstrations and permit fees before operations begin or continue. Facilities must prove they can meet pollution reduction goals to secure or renew permits, with enforcement starting after the bill's effective date.