This bill aims to prohibit the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) from approving the dumping of dredge spoils on any Delaware River island that is owned or controlled by the State or its political subdivisions, including riparian land. The legislation emphasizes the importance of local control over Burlington Island, which has been under local governance since the mid-19th century and is designated for public use. The bill asserts that any attempt to use the island for waste disposal would undermine the legislative intent to benefit the local community, particularly the education of children in Burlington.

Under the proposed law, the DEP can only authorize dumping if it first petitions each municipality with land on the island for approval, and each municipality must then adopt an ordinance permitting the dumping. This requirement ensures that local municipalities have a say in any potential dumping activities, thereby reinforcing local governance and environmental protection. The bill is designed to take effect immediately upon passage.