New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2694

Introduced
5/19/22  

Caption

Requires DEP to study indoor air quality at public schools, develop list of common indoor air contaminants at public schools, and establish guidance regarding potential mitigation measures.

Impact

If enacted, S2694 would significantly change how air quality is assessed and managed in public schools. The DEP will be tasked with providing guidance on potential actions that schools and districts can undertake to mitigate identified air quality issues. This could lead to the development of improved health and safety protocols, ultimately aiming to enhance the well-being of both students and staff. Furthermore, public access to air quality data and guidance documents is intended to promote transparency and encourage schools to prioritize air quality improvements.

Summary

Senate Bill S2694 aims to enhance indoor air quality in New Jersey's public schools by mandating a study on air contaminants within these environments. The bill requires the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to conduct an extensive study that includes a representative sample of public schools from different regions and age ranges. This analysis will focus on identifying common indoor air pollutants and assessing their levels to provide a clearer picture of air quality in schools across the state. The bill seeks to ensure that the findings are applicable to a broad spectrum of educational institutions, from preschools to high schools.

Contention

While the bill has significant positive implications for student health and learning environments, it may present logistical challenges. Opponents may express concerns regarding the feasibility of conducting such widespread studies and the potential cost implications associated with necessary mitigation measures. The bill emphasizes cooperation with various stakeholders, including the Department of Education and entities specializing in green building practices, to ensure that the quality of air in schools meets health standards set by existing regulations.

Companion Bills

NJ A3805

Same As Requires DEP to study indoor air quality at public schools, develop list of common indoor air contaminants at public schools, and establish guidance regarding potential mitigation measures.

Previously Filed As

NJ A3805

Requires DEP to study indoor air quality at public schools, develop list of common indoor air contaminants at public schools, and establish guidance regarding potential mitigation measures.

NJ S1033

Requires DOH to study indoor air quality at public schools, develop list of common indoor air contaminants at public schools, and establish guidance regarding potential mitigation measures.

NJ HB9131

Indoor Air Quality and Healthy Schools Act of 2024

NJ SB00423

An Act Improving Indoor Air Quality In Public School Classrooms.

NJ HB936

Public school buildings; indoor air quality standards.

NJ SB1413

Public school buildings; indoor air quality, inspection and evaluation.

NJ HB2618

Public school buildings; indoor air quality, inspection and evaluation.

NJ SB00287

An Act Concerning Indoor Air Quality In Schools.

NJ SB00288

An Act Concerning Indoor Air Quality In Schools.

NJ HB05431

An Act Concerning Indoor Air Quality In Schools.

Similar Bills

NJ S1033

Requires DOH to study indoor air quality at public schools, develop list of common indoor air contaminants at public schools, and establish guidance regarding potential mitigation measures.

NJ A3805

Requires DEP to study indoor air quality at public schools, develop list of common indoor air contaminants at public schools, and establish guidance regarding potential mitigation measures.

CA SB1054

Pretrial release and detention: pretrial services.

ME LD451

An Act to Require Testing of Solar and Wind Energy Developments for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Contamination

NJ S2746

Provides economic development incentives for remediating and redeveloping legacy landfills, brownfields, and contaminated sites.

NJ S2338

Provides economic development incentives for remediating and redeveloping legacy landfills, brownfields, and contaminated sites.

NJ A3844

Provides economic development incentives for remediating and redeveloping legacy landfills, brownfields, and contaminated sites.

NJ S4397

Provides for automatic approval of air pollution control permits after 90-day review period.