SENATE ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE, No. 3254

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 8, 2026

      The Senate Environment and Energy Committee reports favorably Senate Bill No. 3254.

      This bill would prohibit the expenditure of Green Acres funds for the purchase, use, installation, or replacement of artificial turf.  Synthetic turf contains a myriad of chemicals known to be harmful to humans, including carcinogens, neurotoxicants, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, as well as microplastics, nanoplastics, and perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.  Natural grass is free of the health and environmental hazards associated with synthetic turf.  While synthetic turf is often touted as cost-effective, low-maintenance, and water-saving, the environmental, health, and safety risks greatly outweigh the intended benefits.