Modifies certain CAFRA permit review requirements for nuclear facilities.

Stronger safety checks for nuclear facilities

Beginning April 8, 2026, New Jersey keeps existing permit criteria and adds environmental safeguards. Even when applicants meet those criteria, the Commissioner can deny projects that conflict with the coastal protection law’s purposes. Denial is also allowed for projects that materially worsen already serious, unacceptable environmental damage or resource depletion. The Commissioner can instead set permit conditions to protect public health, safety, welfare, property, wildlife, marine fisheries, and the environment. Nuclear power facility construction and operation cannot be approved without findings that the proposed radioactive-waste storage or disposal method is safe. It must also meet Nuclear Regulatory Commission standards and effectively remove danger to life and the environment.