New Jersey Assembly Bill A1919

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Requires certain residential property owners, schools, and child care centers to test drinking water for lead every three years.

Impact

Additionally, A1919 places similar testing requirements on schools and licensed child care centers. These institutions must test their drinking water following the same schedule and protocols as residential buildings. Schools must make their results publicly accessible on their websites and notify parents and staff if lead levels exceed acceptable limits. This measure aims to ensure that children and staff in educational and care settings are safeguarded from potential lead exposure, which is especially critical given the vulnerability of younger demographics to lead toxicity. The bill's implementation could lead to significant improvements in public health standards across New Jersey, particularly regarding children’s health and safety.

Summary

Bill A1919 requires owners of residential buildings constructed before 1987, containing three or more dwelling units, to test their drinking water for lead levels. This initial testing must be conducted within one year of the bill's enactment and repeated every three years thereafter. At least one water outlet from each occupied unit must be tested, or 10 randomly selected units in larger buildings. Owners must provide test results to current and prospective tenants and notify local authorities if elevated lead levels are found. Furthermore, they must disclose any known lead plumbing infrastructure to prospective tenants before lease agreements are executed. This regulation is aimed at enhancing the safety of drinking water in older residential buildings, where lead pipes may be present.

Contention

Although the intent behind A1919 is to protect public health, some stakeholders may raise concerns about the financial burden placed on property owners to conduct regular lead testing and potential repairs that might be required. Opponents may also argue that the bill may not address deeper systemic issues regarding water quality and infrastructure inadequacies. The bill's success will hinge on effective enforcement mechanisms and public awareness initiatives to educate property owners and tenants alike about lead toxicology and their rights within this framework.