Requires lobby security for certain senior citizen high-rise buildings in areas with high violent crime rates.
Summary
Assembly Bill A1491 seeks to enhance the security measures in senior citizen high-rise buildings located in areas with high violent crime rates. Specifically, it mandates that buildings with 50 or more units must provide 24-hour security monitoring in municipalities where the violent crime rate exceeds six per 1,000 persons. This requirement is based on the average of the three most recent Uniform Crime Reports issued by the New Jersey State Police. The bill emphasizes the importance of creating safe living environments for elderly residents, who may be more vulnerable to crime.
In buildings with 75 or more units, the security responsibilities must include a dedicated on-site security guard, while buildings with between 50 and 74 units can fulfill their obligations through the installation of 24-hour video surveillance cameras that monitor entrances, exits, and common areas. This provision aims to leverage technology to enhance security measures in addition to employing personnel. The bill also gives the Commissioner of Community Affairs, in consultation with the Attorney General, the authority to enforce additional security measures in areas with consistent criminal activity, thus providing a level of flexibility based on community needs.
Upon enactment, the bill is designed to have a delayed effective date to allow for the development and dissemination of necessary rules and regulations. This time frame can aid buildings in implementing the required security measures without immediate penalties for non-compliance, fostering cooperation between state authorities and building owners. Furthermore, municipalities may enact stricter security measures, indicating the bill supports local control to a certain extent.
In terms of legislative discussion, there may be varying opinions regarding the bill's effectiveness and financial implications for building owners. Advocates argue that improved security will protect vulnerable populations such as senior citizens, thereby enhancing their quality of life. Some detractors, however, might express concerns about the costs of implementing these security requirements and the potential burden it may place on smaller property owners. Overall, the discussion reflects the balancing act of ensuring community safety while managing economic considerations for property management.
Requires owners of certain multiple dwellings of three or more floors to provide priority status to senior citizens and disabled residents moving to lower floors.
Requires owners of certain multiple dwellings of three or more floors to provide priority status to senior citizens and disabled residents moving to lower floors.
Provides that private passenger automobile insurance rating territories shall not place exposure in territory based on ZIP code under certain circumstances.
Provides that private passenger automobile insurance rating territories shall not place exposure in territory based on ZIP code under certain circumstances.