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Bill

S 4034

Provides that potable water well construction projects on preserved farms are eligible to receive soil and water conservation grants from SADC.

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

S 4034 makes potable water well construction on preserved New Jersey farms eligible for state soil and water conservation grants, expanding existing SADC funding access for agricultural water infrastructure.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee
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Bill Summary · S 4034

Legislative bill overview

S 4034 expands eligibility for New Jersey's soil and water conservation grants from the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) to include potable water well construction projects on preserved farms. Currently, these grants appear limited to other conservation purposes, and this bill removes that barrier specifically for well projects on farmland that has been permanently preserved through the state's farmland preservation program.

Why is this important

Preserved farms represent a significant public investment in keeping agricultural land in production rather than developed. Access to reliable potable water is essential for farm operations, drinking water for farm residents and workers, and livestock. Enabling grant funding for well construction reduces financial barriers to maintaining water infrastructure on these protected properties, supporting the viability of preserved agricultural operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding allocation: Expanding grant eligibility may shift limited SADC conservation funding away from other soil and water projects, raising questions about budgetary prioritization across conservation needs
  • Geographic/economic equity: The bill specifically targets preserved farms, which may disproportionately benefit larger agricultural operations or certain regions with existing preservation programs, potentially excluding other farms or communities
  • Scope definition: The bill doesn't clarify cost-sharing requirements, grant caps, or whether "potable water well construction" includes related infrastructure (pumps, treatment systems), leaving implementation details unclear

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

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