New Jersey Assembly Republicans announced on Apr. 16 a series of legislative proposals aimed at lowering electricity costs and improving grid reliability for families across the state.
The issue comes as residents face higher utility bills and less reliable service, with recent polling showing widespread support for expanding natural gas power generation. According to the press release, a Fairleigh Dickinson University poll found that 76% of residents favor building new natural gas plants as a way to reduce costs.
The proposals include streamlining permits for new power plants, supporting next-generation nuclear facilities, creating workforce training centers, and recognizing fusion energy as a renewable source. One bill sponsored by Assemblymen Brian Rumpf and Greg Myhre would require state agencies to decide on air quality permits within 90 days or automatically approve them. Another initiative led by Myhre and Rumpf seeks to attract private investment in small modular nuclear reactors, described as “next-generation nuclear facilities” capable of providing reliable, carbon-free power.
Assemblyman Alex Sauickie is sponsoring two additional proposals: one establishing a Power Generation Training Center to prepare workers for jobs in advanced energy sectors, and another classifying fusion technology as a Class I renewable energy source. The press release states these steps are intended to “increase supply, improve reliability, and lower costs” for New Jersey residents.
John DiMaio serves as Minority Leader in the General Assembly after joining the body in 2009 according to the official legislative roster. DiMaio represents District 23—which includes Hackettstown—and has held positions such as Appropriations Officer from 2012 to 2017 and Budget Officer from 2018 to 2019 according to the official legislative roster. He also served on the Warren County Board of Freeholders from 2000 through 2009 and was mayor of Hackettstown between 1991 and 1999 according to the official legislative roster.
The press release concludes that current policies have resulted in increased reliance on out-of-state electricity imports—over forty percent according to Republican legislators—leaving families exposed “to higher costs and a less reliable grid.” Lawmakers say until more energy is built within New Jersey’s borders, “families will keep paying the price.”
