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Bill

S 3802

Requires certain State-funded construction projects to utilize plastic construction materials that contain certain amounts of postconsumer recycled content.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Renee Burgess and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill requires state construction projects to use plastic materials with specified postconsumer recycled content minimums, aiming to boost circular economy demand while potentially raising project costs.

Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee
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Bill Summary · S 3802

Legislative bill overview

S 3802 mandates that state-funded construction projects incorporate plastic materials containing specified percentages of postconsumer recycled content. The bill establishes minimum recycled content requirements that contractors must meet when using plastics in publicly-financed building and infrastructure projects.

Why is this important

This legislation directly impacts procurement standards for New Jersey's public construction spending, potentially creating market demand for recycled plastic products and supporting circular economy goals. It affects construction costs, material availability, contractor compliance requirements, and the state's waste diversion and sustainability objectives.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Recycled content plastic materials may cost more than virgin plastics, potentially increasing project budgets and taxpayer expenses
  • Material availability and supply chain: Insufficient market supply of recycled plastic construction materials at required specifications could create procurement delays or force waivers
  • Performance and durability concerns: Questions about whether recycled content plastics meet equivalent performance standards and long-term durability compared to virgin materials in construction applications
  • Feasibility and compliance burden: Contractors may face challenges sourcing compliant materials, documentation requirements, and verification processes for recycled content percentages

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

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