New Jersey Assembly Bill A1670

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires boil water notices to be provided by certain public water systems via telephone, email or text message.

Impact

Under this legislation, public water systems must enhance their communication strategies to include telephone calls, emails, and text messages as acceptable means of delivering boil water notifications. This provision will take effect 90 days after the bill's enactment, allowing time for water systems to acquire the necessary capabilities. The additional requirement to document and communicate specific details in the boil water notices aims to inform customers about the exact nature of the emergency, including corrective actions they should undertake, ultimately reinforcing consumer safety measures.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1670 requires public water systems in New Jersey to promptly inform customers whenever a boil water notice is in effect due to emergencies. This is a response to public health concerns related to water safety, mandating that water supply operators notify their customers as soon as possible after learning about a situation requiring such notice—specifically within 24 hours. The bill promotes swift communication to protect public health and well-being by ensuring that affected consumers take necessary precautions regarding their drinking water.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, there may be operational challenges for public water systems, particularly smaller ones, in implementing the required notification systems. Some stakeholders may express concerns over the potential costs associated with upgrading communication infrastructures. Furthermore, there could be debates around the adequacy of timelines and the methods of communication. Advocates for public health will likely support the bill, emphasizing its importance, while others may argue about balancing regulatory responsibilities against operational feasibility.