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NJ A4615

Bill

Status

Introduced

3/10/2026

Primary Sponsor

Dawn Fantasia

Click for details

Origin

General Assembly

2026-2027 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates a 20-member Forest Fire Preparedness Commission within the Department of Environmental Protection, chaired by the DEP Commissioner and including the State Firewarden, State Police Superintendent, and representatives from firefighting organizations and regional planning councils.

  • Requires the Commissioner of Environmental Protection to appoint 12 members within 60 days of enactment, including district firewardens, representatives from the Highlands Council, Pinelands Commission, and local emergency response organizations.

  • Mandates the commission conduct a comprehensive audit of New Jersey's readiness to prevent, mitigate, and respond to wildfires, including an assessment of controlled burn effectiveness.

  • Directs the commission to develop a coordinated response roadmap for state, regional, county, and local emergency responders, along with standardized communication protocols and evacuation procedures.

  • Requires a final report to the Governor and Legislature within two years, after which the commission dissolves 30 days later.

Legislative Description

Establishes Forest Fire Preparedness Commission in DEP.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee

3/10/2026

Committee Referrals

Agriculture and Natural Resources3/10/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available