Main Menu
Parker McCay Blog
Gov. Murphy Accelerates Emissions Reduction Target and Announces Funding for Green Initiatives
November 15, 2021
Gov. Murphy Accelerates Emissions Reduction Target and Announces Funding for Green Initiatives

On November 10, 2021, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order (E.O.) 274, which sets a new near-term target for the reduction of New Jersey’s greenhouse gas emissions to 50% below 2006 levels by the year 2030. Previously, pursuant to the Global Warming Response Act, N.J.S.A. 26:2C-37, New Jersey sought a statewide reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 80% below 2006 levels by the year 2050. Per Governor Murphy, a new, near-term target will help focus the State’s efforts to reduce emissions and ensure that the State takes action now, rather than in the future. 

Along with E.O. 274, Governor Murphy also announced a $13.7 million investment in electric buses and trucks to reduce emissions and improve air quality in overburdened communities, funded by the proceeds from New Jersey’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). Additionally, Governor Murphy announced a $20 million expansion of the New Jersey Zero Emission Incentive Program (NJZIP) into the greater Jersey Shore area. The NJZIP program provides vouchers to businesses and institutional organizations to support the purchase of low and zero emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles. Previously, this program was limited to the greater Newark and Camden areas. Together, these initiatives will reduce vehicle emissions from the transportation sector.

Since February 2021, New Jersey has committed nearly $71 million in RGGI proceeds to purchase electric vehicles and install charging stations and this investment of RGGI funds will enable local governments and private operators to purchase 46 electric school buses to serve Bogota, Dover, Camden, East Orange, Garfield, Haledon, Lakewood, Leonia, Paterson, Perth Amboy, Trenton and Weehawken. The funds will also allow for the purchase of three public works trucks in Pleasantville.

As New Jersey moves toward its greenhouse gas emissions target, look for the State to continue its efforts to support and encourage the replacement of traditional vehicles with new, low emission or electric vehicles across the public and private sectors. If your organization is interested in reducing its carbon footprint, attorneys at Parker McCay can help navigate the State’s programs and support your efforts to go green. 

The content of this post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion. You should consult a lawyer concerning your specific situation and any specific legal question you may have.

Subscribe for Updates
Subscribe to this blog's feed

Categories

Back to Page