Meaningful Public Participation Guidance : A Guide for Facilities Subject to New Jersey’s Environmental Justice Rule

Abstract

The Environmental Justice Rules, N.J.A.C. 7:1C (EJ Rules), require facilities to engage with the members of the surrounding community in a meaningful dialogue to further the aims of the Environmental Justice law. This requirement is a novel approach under a first-of-its-kind law, and therefore, the Department of Environmental Protection (Department) has created this guide to offer suggestions to the permit applicants on how to facilitate and engage in that meaningful dialogue. The methods referenced in this guidance document are one way of achieving compliance with N.J.A.C. 7:1C. Please refer to the Rules and use this guide in conjunction with the Rules.