New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill Administration Faces Criticism Over Proposed Delay in Flood Regulations
New Jersey environmental advocates are criticizing Governor Mikie Sherrill's administration for proposing an extension to the transition period for new flood and land-use regulations, known as the Resilient Environment and Landscapes (REAL) rules. These rules, adopted in January under former Governor Phil Murphy, updated regulations concerning coastal development, wetlands, stormwater management, and flood hazards. The Sherrill administration suggests extending the 'legacy period'—which allows certain permit applications to be reviewed under older regulations—through July 20, 2027. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) states this extension is to allow time for consultation with various stakeholders, including municipalities, counties, developers, and environmental groups, to identify potential amendments that could streamline permitting while still protecting life and property. Environmental groups, however, argue that this delay could lead to additional development under less stringent standar...
