Directs DEP to establish sonar testing permit program.

New Jersey's Assembly Bill A1528 requires the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to create a permit program for sonar testing in state waters. It mandates that any entity conducting sonar testing must submit a study assessing impacts on marine life and mitigation plans before receiving a permit. Permits are only issued if the DEP determines the testing poses minimal risk to marine life, and permits must be suspended immediately if marine mammals are harmed due to the testing. The military and emergency situations are exempt from the permit requirement. This bill directly affects organizations using sonar equipment for mapping or exploration in New Jersey's coastal waters.