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Bill

Bill

S 4719

Requires report of societal benefits charge revenues and expenditures to be included in the Governor's annual budget message.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by John Burzichelli

New Jersey bill requiring governor's annual budget to include detailed accounting of societal benefits charge revenues and spending, increasing transparency of energy program funding.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee
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Bill Summary · S 4719

Legislative bill overview

S 4719 requires New Jersey to include a detailed report of "societal benefits charge" revenues and expenditures in the Governor's annual budget message. This mandate would create transparency around how funds collected through this specific charge are being spent and allocated across state programs.

Why is this important

The societal benefits charge is a utility surcharge that funds energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other public benefit programs in New Jersey. Requiring transparent reporting in the governor's budget message ensures legislators and the public can track how billions in collected revenue are being used and whether funds align with stated policy goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill doesn't define what constitutes "societal benefits charge" revenues, potentially creating confusion if multiple related charges exist or if the scope changes
  • Administrative burden: Adding detailed reporting requirements increases state administrative work and could delay budget message preparation
  • Accountability vs. operational flexibility: Enhanced transparency may constrain how quickly utilities and agencies can reallocate funds to address emerging energy or environmental priorities without legislative review

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

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