New Jersey Senate Moves Forward with Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Restrictions
TRENTON, NJ—First, it was your gas car. Then it was your gas stove and gas fireplace. Now, they are coming for your gas-powered yard tools. No, New Jersey, we’re not kidding.
The New Jersey Senate Environment and Energy Committee has approved Senate Bill No. 217 with amendments, targeting the phased elimination of gas-powered leaf blowers in the state. The bill specifically addresses the environmental concerns associated with two-stroke and four-stroke engine leaf blowers.
The legislation mandates that starting two years after its effective date, the sale or distribution of gas-powered leaf blowers with two-stroke engines will be prohibited statewide. Moreover, four years post-enactment, the use or operation of any gas-powered leaf blower with a two-stroke engine will be banned in New Jersey. The restrictions will extend to four-stroke engine blowers in residential areas, limiting their use to specific times of the year outside these zones.
Adding to the bill’s comprehensive approach, it also introduces a tax incentive program encouraging the adoption of electric leaf blowers. The state will offer a tax credit against the corporation business tax, covering up to 50% of the purchase cost, including necessary batteries and charging equipment. This initiative aims to facilitate the transition from gas-powered to electric leaf blowers, aligning with environmental goals.
The bill also defines ‘residential area’ and sets penalties for non-compliance, ranging from warnings for first-time offenders to fines up to $1,000 for commercial entities in subsequent violations. Municipalities are empowered to enact local ordinances that align with or exceed the stringency of this state legislation, though they cannot restrict the use of blowers designed for pesticide application.
This legislative move reflects New Jersey’s commitment to environmental stewardship and public health, addressing noise pollution and air quality concerns associated with gas-powered leaf blowers. The Department of Environmental Protection will oversee the implementation of the bill, ensuring a structured transition to less harmful alternatives.