TRENTON, NJ—Governor Phil Murphy and Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette announced today that New Jersey is set to overhaul its environmental regulations to address the increasing risks of coastal flooding, sea-level rise, and other climate-related threats. The initiative, known as the REAL (Resilient Environments and Landscapes) reforms, positions New Jersey as the first state to comprehensively update land resource protection regulations in response to the current and projected impacts of climate change.

Governor Murphy described the REAL reforms as a vital part of the state’s strategy to enhance resilience against the escalating effects of climate change. These reforms are the result of extensive scientific research and stakeholder engagement, aimed at protecting residential and commercial areas from the threats of rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and frequent flooding.

Commissioner LaTourette emphasized the administration’s leadership in addressing climate change, noting that the REAL reforms were developed through a robust, science-based process involving substantial stakeholder input over the past four years. These reforms are expected to not only improve environmental quality and flood protection but also to provide necessary tools for building resilient communities, particularly in areas most vulnerable to climate impacts.

The proposed amendments will affect New Jersey’s flood hazard, stormwater, coastal zone, and freshwater wetland regulations. A formal rule proposal is scheduled for publication in the New Jersey Register in July, followed by a 90-day public comment period and three public hearings.

Details about the REAL proposal and upcoming webinars for the public can be found at dep.nj.gov/njreal/. This initiative is part of the broader New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Threats (NJ PACT) initiative, underscoring the Murphy Administration’s commitment to fortifying the state’s defenses against the adverse effects of climate change and enhancing community resilience for the future.