Establishes “Native Habitat Certification Program”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – June 29, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Legislation sponsored by Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick that encourages homeowners to expand and protect the natural habitats of birds, plants and other wildlife was approved by the General Assembly today.
“Homeowners should be encouraged to take an active role in protecting our environment,” said Bramnick, R-Union, Morris and Somerset. “Altering a property to comply with standards established by the DEP will help wildlife return to its natural habitat. Everyone has a responsibility to conserve and care for all our natural resources.”
The bill (A-3133) establishes a private wildlife habitat certification program overseen by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). DEP will authorize qualified organizations to inspect and certify properties that meet established standards. Once a property is certified, the owner cannot be held liable for violating a municipal nuisance ordinance.
