This bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. It was introduced in the Senate and sent to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources for review. There are no upcoming votes scheduled at this time.
Legislative Progress
Senate
House
President
Law
Unlikely to pass
While it has support from both New Jersey senators, small local conservation bills often struggle to get a vote on their own unless they are added to a bigger public lands bill.
Key Points
This bill asks the Department of the Interior to study the Mullica River and its many branches in New Jersey. The goal is to see if these waterways should be protected under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.
The study would cover several rivers and creeks, including the Wading River, Batsto River, and Oswego River. It looks at the entire area from the headwaters down to where the water meets the Great Bay.
If the study finds these rivers qualify, they could eventually receive federal protections. This often helps preserve water quality, wildlife habitats, and the natural beauty of the area for future generations.
The government would have three years to finish the study once they get the money to do it. After that, they must send a report to Congress with their findings and recommendations.
Impact Analysis
Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.
Milestones
2 milestones2 actions
May 20, 2026Senate
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
May 20, 2026
Introduced in Senate
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
