The Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee heard from academic experts on ways to alert the public when flooding is imminent. None of the legislation was considered at this hearing but will likely be in the next legislative session.
Several academic experts from Rutgers University, NJIT, and Stevens Institute of Technology provided their thoughts and shared examples of instruments that could help alert systems.
Impacted League affiliates reviewed the legislation and provided comments. League staff testified that there are concerns regarding increased costs, increased regulation, and the need for flexibility. We offered to be a resource to the sponsor to improve the legislation. The legislation that was discussed and listed on the agenda are:
A-5991: Requires DEP to establish online flood, rainfall, river levels, and sewer capacity dashboard.
A-5992: Establishes “Smart Stormwater Sensor Pilot Program” in DEP; appropriates $1 million.
A-5993: Requires State Office of Emergency Management to establish hyperlocal text alert system for flood and severe weather conditions.
A-5994: Requires DEP to establish program to map stormwater infrastructure.
A-6036: Directs DEP to establish artificial intelligence flood prediction and mapping tool.
If you would like to share comments on this package of legislation, please email Paul Penna at ppenna@njleg.org who will share the information with the sponsor.
Contact: Paul Penna, Director of Government Affairs, ppenna@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x110.