ASSEMBLY SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 3087

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 1, 2026

      The Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 3087.

      As reported, this bill directs the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in consultation with institutions of higher education and private sector technology companies, to develop and implement an artificial intelligence (AI) tool for predicting and mapping flood risk throughout New Jersey.  The AI tool will utilize satellite imagery, historical and projected rainfall data, and climate models to identify high-risk flood zones at the block or neighborhood level.  The bill also requires the incorporation, to the extent practicable, of additional data sources such as river height monitoring devices, meteorological and stormwater sensors, National Weather Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration mapping resources, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s floodplain maps.

      The bill requires the DEP to make the AI tool publicly accessible and to ensure continuous updates and performance improvements through ongoing data collection.  To support its development and deployment, the bill requires the DEP to enter into agreements with public and private entities, including institutions of higher education.  The bill also permits the creation of a grant program to fund contributions of technical expertise, data, or infrastructure relevant to the AI tool.  All contracts and awards are required to be publicly disclosed.

      This bill was pre-filed for introduction in the 2026-2027 session pending technical review.  As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.