The bill appropriates funds to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for the fiscal year 2025, specifically targeting various environmental infrastructure projects. It allocates resources from multiple funds, including the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, to support clean and drinking water project loans, as well as technical assistance. The bill allows for the transfer of funds between these revolving funds to address public health threats and meet financing needs for eligible projects. It also authorizes the DEP to provide zero-interest and principal forgiveness loans to local government units or public water utilities, with a focus on disadvantaged communities, combined sewer overflow projects, and other critical initiatives.
Additionally, the legislation outlines a framework for principal forgiveness and blended interest rate loans, with specific provisions for projects based on their costs and the populations served. It establishes maximum funding amounts for various project types, including $30 million for combined sewer overflow projects and $10 million for water quality restoration. The bill emphasizes the importance of addressing emerging contaminants and climate change, while also providing financial support for projects related to the aftermath of Storm Sandy. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance New Jersey's water infrastructure resilience and ensure affordability through targeted financial assistance, with a total funding eligibility of approximately $2.8 billion for various water infrastructure improvements.