NJF Statement on Governor Sherrill's Announcement to delay NJ Protecting Against Climate Threats (PACT) Resilient Environments and Landscapes (REAL) Rule

TRENTON, NJ, June 01, 2026—Peter Kasabach, Executive Director at New Jersey Future, states:

"New Jersey Future is concerned by the Administration’s decision to delay implementation of the REAL rules by one year.

Our hope was that the rules would move forward as planned, allowing improvements informed by real-world implementation. Advancing the rules while refining them through implementation would have been the most prudent approach to ensuring strong, workable outcomes. This delay risks losing that opportunity.

We recognize the rules are not perfect and remain committed to working with stakeholders and decision-makers to improve them.

To make the most of this additional year, we urge the Governor’s Office to clearly identify priority areas for refinement, set measurable goals, and actively facilitate structured stakeholder engagement. With a defined path forward, this period can still produce stronger, more implementable rules.

New Jersey Future stands ready to support a process that delivers clear, science-based standards to better protect New Jersey’s communities."