On Thursday, the Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee favorably reported A-5264, which requires the establishment of an automated platform to expedite construction code approval of applications to install residential solar energy systems.
The League expressed concerns to the Committee regarding the limitations on local management of solar permits, the punitive nature of the enforcement mechanisms, and the potential burden on municipalities. Additionally, we noted that the Department of Community Affairs is currently working on an electronic permitting system for use by municipalities that is not specific to this bill.
The League is currently working with the bill’s sponsor, Assemblyman Karabinchak, to find solutions to our concerns. The bill has been second referenced to the Assembly Appropriations Committee, and we will continue to advise you on developments.
Contact: Erin Knoedler, Legislative Analyst, eknoedler@njlm.org, 609-695-3841 x116.