On April 22, a joint legislative panel of the Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee and the Senate Environment and Energy Committee held a hearing on the Department of Environmental Protection’s recently adopted “Protecting Against Climate Threats – Resilient Environments and Landscapes” (NJ PACT-REAL) rules, as well as SCR-106. The resolution would require the DEP to amend the rules within 30 days and could ultimately enable the Legislature to invalidate them.

The PACT-REAL rules represent a significant update to New Jersey’s flood protection framework. Key provisions include increased elevation requirements for certain construction projects, expanded wetlands protections, enhanced stormwater management standards, and broader state flood mapping that goes beyond federal benchmarks. While no vote was taken at the hearing, further legislative action is anticipated.

During the hearing, members of the business community and local officials raised concerns about the potential impact of the rules on development, housing affordability, and overall economic growth. Stakeholders emphasized the risk of increased construction costs, project delays, and added uncertainty for redevelopment efforts.

Environmental advocates, however, underscored the long-term economic risks associated with insufficient flood protections. Testimony highlighted the growing frequency and severity of storms, rising sea levels, and the potential for increased insurance, infrastructure, and municipal financing costs if resilience measures are not strengthened.

The CCSNJ submitted comments during the rulemaking process and will continue to closely monitor this evolving issue. Any changes to the PACT-REAL rules could have significant implications for South Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To listen to the hearing, click here.