An environmental justice bill allowing the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to evaluate the environmental and public health impacts of certain pollutants on “overburdened communities” passed committees in both legislative houses.
The state Senate passed the bill sponsored by Sens. Troy Singleton (D-7) and Loretta Weinberg (D-37). Assembly Democrats John McKeon (D-27), Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-37) and Britnee Timberlake (D-34) sponsored the bill in the Assembly, where it was passed by the Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee.
“For decades, our poor and minority residents were more exposed to pollution in urban areas. This has caused significant, multi-generational and chronic health problems among these communities that just don’t exist in wealthier, less polluted communities,” said Weinberg in a press statement.
Public Forum
Under the law, any application to obtain an environmental permit for a new or expanded facility, or those for to renew an existing “major source” permit, would need to meet certain conditions.
An applicant would be required to provide an environmental justice impact statement and an assessment of the public health and environmental stressors of the proposals to the DEP. The studies would be published online, and the public would have an opportunity to discuss the items at a hearing.
The DEP would be required to investigate the permit for at least 45 days following the public hearing. The agency would be required to deny approval of a permit upon findings it could cause or contribute to adverse cumulative environmental or public health stressors in the overburdened community.
Protecting Overburdened Communities
There are about 310 municipalities in the state that have overburdened communities, according to criteria the DEP would need to follow. At least 35% of households in the community must qualify as low-income households.
At least 40% of the residents would have to identify as minority or as members of a tribal community, or 40% of households must have limited English proficiency.
“Families living in urban neighborhoods have for too long disproportionately faced the negative effects of pollution, scores of children in these communities being diagnosed with asthma and put at greater risk of experiencing chronic health issues throughout their lifetimes,” said Vainieri Huttle.
