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Bill

A 5992

Establishes "Smart Stormwater Sensor Pilot Program" in DEP; appropriates $1 million.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Tully

New Jersey DEP pilot program deploys $1 million in smart stormwater sensors to improve real-time flood monitoring and water management across municipalities.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5992

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 5992 establishes a pilot program within New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to deploy smart stormwater sensors across the state. The bill allocates $1 million in funding to test sensor technology that monitors and manages stormwater runoff in real time.

Why is this important

Stormwater management is a significant infrastructure challenge in New Jersey, particularly in urban areas where heavy rainfall causes flooding and water quality degradation. Smart sensors can provide municipalities with real-time data to optimize drainage systems, reduce combined sewer overflows, and improve flood response—potentially saving costs and protecting public health and property.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding sustainability: $1 million covers pilot deployment, but scaling statewide infrastructure and ongoing maintenance costs are unclear; municipalities may face unfunded mandates to integrate systems
  • Data ownership and privacy: Real-time monitoring systems raise questions about who controls sensor data, how it's shared between DEP and local governments, and whether privacy concerns are adequately addressed
  • Technology effectiveness and standards: The bill doesn't specify sensor types, accuracy standards, or performance benchmarks, leaving uncertainty about whether the pilot will generate actionable results or inform future policy decisions

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

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