New Jersey : 2024-2025 Regular Session : BILL S4161
Prohibits release of certain substances into atmosphere for purposes of geoengineering.
geoengineering into atmosphere
Bill Details
Prohibits release of certain substances into atmosphere for purposes of geoengineering.
Bill summary (AI generated)
This bill, designated as Senate No. 4161, seeks to prohibit the release of certain substances into the atmosphere for geoengineering purposes within the state of New Jersey. It introduces definitions related to the topic, such as "geoengineering," which is defined as the intentional manipulation of the environment through chemical or physical agents to alter atmospheric or surface conditions, encompassing activities like weather modification, aerosol injection, chaff dispersal, and cloud seeding. Key provisions of the bill include: 1. **Prohibition**: No person, including private or public entities, is allowed to release hazardous chemicals or other hazardous physical agents into the atmosphere for geoengineering purposes. 2. **Responsibilities of the Commissioner**: If a federal agency or military branch engages in prohibited geoengineering activities, the Commissioner of Environmental Protection must notify the appropriate federal representative that such activities cannot be legally conducted in or over New Jersey. 3. **Public Participation**: The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) shall establish a program to enable the public to monitor and report geoengineering incidents that may violate this act. The department is required to investigate credible reports of violations. 4. **Penalties**: Violators of the prohibition will be subject to civil administrative penalties of up to $10,000 for the first offense, $25,000 for the second, and $50,000 for third and subsequent offenses. Each violation of the act is considered a separate offense. 5. **Implementation Timeline**: The DEP must adopt the necessary rules and regulations to implement this act within 18 months of its enactment. This legislation emphasizes the state's regulation of geoengineering activities by prohibiting hazardous releases and enabling public monitoring and reporting. The bill is currently introduced and awaiting further legislative consideration.
History
The bill S4161, titled "Prohibits release of certain substances into atmosphere for purposes of geoengineering," was introduced in the Senate on February 25, 2025. It has since been referred to the Senate Environment and Energy Committee for further consideration. Next, the bill will undergo review and discussion within the Environment and Energy Committee, where members will evaluate its provisions and may propose amendments. If it passes this committee stage, it will then be scheduled for a vote in the Senate. Should the Senate approve the bill, it will proceed to the House of Representatives for similar scrutiny and voting. The outcome at each stage will determine whether it continues progressing through the legislative process.
- Tue 25 Feb 2025 Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee