This bill mandates the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the short and long-term effects of water use by large-scale data centers. The study will assess various factors, including the impact of water use on drinking water systems, wastewater systems, and the environment, as well as the operational efficiency and costs associated with these data centers. The evaluation will cover a three-year period for short-term effects and a seven-year period for long-term effects, while also considering future data centers. The DEP is empowered to require relevant entities to provide necessary information and to consult with the Board of Public Utilities for additional data.

The bill stipulates that the DEP must submit a written report detailing the findings of the evaluation to the Governor and the Legislature within fifteen months of the bill's effective date. The report may also include recommendations for legislative improvements regarding water use by large-scale data centers. The act will take effect immediately and will expire upon the submission of the report.