This bill proposes a supplemental appropriation of $500,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) specifically for the dredging and restoration of the Peckman River. The funding is intended to be allocated among the Townships of Cedar Grove, Little Falls, Verona, and the Borough of Woodland Park, following an application process established by the Commissioner of Environmental Protection. The municipalities are required to submit a joint application that includes their plan for the project, which encompasses dredging, restoration, cleaning, and desnagging activities in line with the Statewide general permit.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that the DEP will waive any permit fees associated with activities that are consistent with the Statewide general permit for the Peckman River project. This aims to facilitate the municipalities' efforts in restoring the river without the burden of additional costs. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.