ASSEMBLY SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 741

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  FEBRUARY 3, 2020

      The Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee reports favorably Assembly, No. 741.

      As reported, this bill establishes in the Board of Public Utilities the New Jersey Fuel Cell Task Force (task force). The purpose of the task force is to develop a plan to increase the use of fuel cells in the State and to provide information, education, and resources for that purpose. In addition to developing the plan, the task force is to:

      1)   serve as a resource to State departments and local governments on fuel cell issues;

      2)   assist in the growth of fuel cell businesses in the State;

      3)   increase the use of fuel cells throughout State government;

      4)   develop a strategy for the development of infrastructure to support the use of fuel cells; and

      5)   provide informational materials and education to the public, government, and industry about the use and benefits of fuel cells. 

      The task force is to consist of 15 members, including the Commissioner of Environmental Protection, the President of the Board of Public Utilities, the Commissioner of Transportation, the Commissioner of Community Affairs, the Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, who would serve ex officio, or their respective designees, and public members to be appointed by the Governor who are to represent stakeholders and experts.

      No later than one year after its organization, and annually thereafter, the task force is to prepare and submit to the Governor and the Legislature a report detailing the task force's plan to increase the use of fuel cells in the State, including any recommendations for legislative or regulatory action that are necessary to effectuate the plan. 

      This bill was pre-filed for introduction in the 2020-2021 session pending technical review. As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.