WeVote
Log In

Bill

SH

Bill

A 2327

Requires DEP to perform certain assessments concerning regulation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Shama Haider and 5 co-sponsors

Bill A 2327 mandates New Jersey's DEP to assess unregulated PFAS in drinking water every five years, ensuring safety standards protect public health, especially children.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Environment, Natural Resources, and Solid Waste Committee
#hazsubstanc #watersupply
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 2327

Summary of Bill A 2327

Bill Number: A 2327
Title: Requires DEP to perform certain assessments concerning regulation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances
Status: Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Environment, Natural Resources, and Solid Waste Committee
Introduced: January 09, 2024
Classification: Bill
Subject: Hazardous Substances, Water Supply

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 2327 aims to enhance the regulation of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water in New Jersey. The bill mandates the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to conduct regular assessments to determine the need for maximum contaminant levels or other drinking water standards for unregulated PFAS.

Key Provisions

  1. Five-Year Assessments:

    • The DEP is required to conduct assessments every five years on PFAS that are not currently regulated under state or federal law.
    • The purpose of these assessments is to evaluate whether new maximum contaminant levels or drinking water standards should be established for these substances.

  2. Child Health Considerations:

    • The bill specifically mandates the DEP to assess whether existing and proposed maximum contaminant levels adequately protect children's health. This consideration is crucial due to children's lower average body weight and higher drinking water intake relative to their body weight compared to adults.

  3. Collaboration with Experts:

    • The DEP may consult or collaborate with the Drinking Water Quality Institute to implement the provisions of this bill effectively.

  4. Reporting Requirements:

    • After each assessment, the DEP must submit a written report of its findings to the Governor and the Legislature.
    • Additionally, the report must be published on the DEP's website for public access.

  5. Definition of PFAS:

    • The bill defines PFAS as any member of the class of fluorinated organic chemicals containing at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom.

Impact

  • Public Health: The bill is designed to protect public health, particularly that of children, by ensuring that drinking water standards for PFAS are regularly reviewed and updated as necessary.
  • Environmental Oversight: By requiring the DEP to conduct these assessments, the bill enhances the state's oversight of potentially harmful substances in drinking water.
  • Transparency: The reporting requirements ensure transparency and public access to information regarding the safety of drinking water in relation to PFAS.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced in the Assembly on January 9, 2024, and has been referred to the Assembly Environment, Natural Resources, and Solid Waste Committee for further consideration.
  • The bill is currently pending technical review by Legislative Counsel.

Related Legislation

  • S 1043: A companion bill that may address similar issues regarding PFAS regulation.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of Bill A 2327, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, potential impacts, and procedural status.

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

Sign in to ask a question.