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Bill

S 4922

Appropriates $55 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues for recreation and conservation purposes and various Green Acres funds to DEP for State capital and park development projects.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nilsa Cruz-Perez and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill allocates $55 million in cannabis tax and Green Acres funds to DEP for state park development and conservation infrastructure projects.

Substituted by A6274
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Bill Summary · S 4922

Legislative bill overview

S 4922 allocates $55 million in state revenue—drawn from constitutionally protected Cannabis Business Tax (CBT) funds and Green Acres programs—to New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for capital improvements, park development, and conservation projects. The bill was introduced in December 2024 and progressed through Senate committee before being substituted by Assembly bill A6274 in late December.

Why is this important

This funding directly supports physical infrastructure for public recreation and natural resource protection across the state. The use of CBT revenues (derived from cannabis sales taxes) represents a policy decision about how to allocate a relatively new revenue stream, while Green Acres funds are historically dedicated to land preservation. The $55 million represents meaningful investment in parks, trails, facilities, and environmental remediation that affects public access to outdoor spaces and ecosystem health.

Potential points of contention

  • CBT revenue allocation: Some argue cannabis tax revenues should prioritize substance abuse prevention/treatment or social equity programs, while others support diversified spending including conservation
  • Green Acres fund reallocation: Environmental advocates may question whether redirecting these funds from their traditional land acquisition purposes adequately serves conservation goals
  • Project selection and transparency: Without specified project details in the bill text, questions may arise about how DEP will prioritize $55 million across competing infrastructure needs and geographic regions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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