New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2310

Introduced
3/21/22  

Caption

Permits local health boards to require minimum temperature of 70 degrees from October through April in certain buildings occupied by seniors and disabled persons.

Impact

This legislation modifies existing temperature regulations that previously required a minimum of 65 degrees Fahrenheit only when the outside temperatures dropped below 55 degrees. By removing this restriction, S2310 guarantees that vulnerable populations maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor environment, regardless of external conditions. This change is particularly significant for residential units that serve older and disabled constituents who are more susceptible to health risks associated with inadequate heating during colder months.

Summary

Senate Bill 2310, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, aims to enhance the living conditions for seniors and disabled individuals in certain housing by ensuring that the local health boards have the authority to mandate a minimum indoor temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit from October through April in designated residential units. The bill specifically applies to 'housing for older persons' as defined by the federal Fair Housing Act, and also includes community residences for developmentally disabled, mentally ill individuals, and those with head injuries while excluding nursing facilities that already meet federal heating standards.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding the bill is the potential increased responsibility it places on property owners and landlords. While the bill stipulates that owners must ensure adequate heating, there is a provision that absolves them of responsibility for heat loss due to occupants’ actions, such as leaving windows open. This balance between tenant rights and landlord responsibilities aims to protect vulnerable occupants while also ensuring that landlords are not unfairly penalized for factors beyond their control. Discussions regarding the implications of this regulation touch upon the broader issues of housing standards and tenant protections in residential laws.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ S137

Permits local health boards to require minimum temperature of 70 degrees from October through April in certain buildings occupied by seniors and disabled persons.

NJ S369

Requires minimum temperature in senior citizen housing projects to be maintained at 70 degrees from October 1 to May 1.

NJ A3149

Requires minimum temperature in senior citizen housing projects to be maintained at 70 degrees from October 1 to May 1.

NJ A860

Requires minimum temperature in senior citizen housing projects to be maintained at 70 degrees from October 1 to May 1.

NJ SB00393

An Act Requiring A Study Of Methods To Alleviate High Room Temperatures In Residential Buildings.

NJ HB2638

Relating to temperatures in school buildings.

NJ A3762

Requires lobby security for certain senior citizen high-rise buildings in areas with high violent crime rates.

NJ S1769

Requires lobby security for certain senior citizen high-rise buildings in areas with high violent crime rates.

NJ A1491

Requires lobby security for certain senior citizen high-rise buildings in areas with high violent crime rates.

NJ AB2597

Dwelling unit standards: safe indoor air temperatures.

Similar Bills

NJ S137

Permits local health boards to require minimum temperature of 70 degrees from October through April in certain buildings occupied by seniors and disabled persons.

AZ SB1544

Eviction limit; heat; temperature settings

CA AB2597

Dwelling unit standards: safe indoor air temperatures.

NJ S369

Requires minimum temperature in senior citizen housing projects to be maintained at 70 degrees from October 1 to May 1.

NJ A860

Requires minimum temperature in senior citizen housing projects to be maintained at 70 degrees from October 1 to May 1.

NJ A3149

Requires minimum temperature in senior citizen housing projects to be maintained at 70 degrees from October 1 to May 1.

OR SB54

Relating to cooling for residential tenancies.

DC B26-0285

Climatizing Our Overheated Living Spaces Regulation Amendment Act of 2025