This bill establishes a two-year pilot program aimed at detecting, monitoring, and eradicating antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic-resistant genes (ARG) in New Jersey's water systems. The program will be implemented collaboratively by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Department of Health (DOH), and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank, with a total appropriation of $3 million allocated for its execution. The pilot program will focus on various sites, including wastewater treatment plants, hospitals, surface waters, agricultural areas, and groundwater aquifers identified as vulnerable. It will utilize advanced technologies such as biosensors and microfluidic devices for monitoring ARB and ARG, and will establish a testing schedule based on the detection frequency of these contaminants.

Under the bill, the DEP will be responsible for creating a centralized database for ARB and ARG results, issuing alerts to municipalities when contamination is detected, and ensuring compliance through annual audits and training for testing personnel. The DOH will cross-reference data with hospitals and pharmaceutical facilities to ensure comprehensive coverage and will research the links between environmental ARB/ARG exposure and neurodegenerative diseases. The bill mandates a phased performance standard requiring a 90% reduction in ARB and ARG incidence across state water systems, with specific timelines for compliance based on population size served. The DEP, DOH, and Infrastructure Bank will report annually to the Governor and Legislature on the program's success and recommendations for its future.