New Jersey Assembly Bill A3192

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/23/23

Caption

Requires public water systems to compile, and submit to DEP, lead service line inventories.

Impact

The implementation of A3192 is expected to have significant consequences for state water regulations and public health standards. By compelling public water systems to identify and report on lead service lines, the bill seeks to address longstanding concerns regarding lead exposure through drinking water, which has known health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women. Furthermore, the DEP is tasked with developing guidance documents based on industry best practices to assist these systems in complying with the new requirements, ensuring that the process is not only thorough but also standardized across the state.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3192 mandates that all public water systems in New Jersey compile and submit an inventory of lead service lines within their distribution networks to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This requirement aims to enhance transparency and public health safety by ensuring that both state officials and residents have access to information regarding potential lead contamination in drinking water. The bill sets a one-year deadline for public water systems to complete these inventories and ensures that the information is available at no cost upon request.

Contention

Although the bill has garnered support as a necessary measure for improving public health and water safety, there may be points of contention regarding the feasibility of compliance among public water systems, especially smaller ones with fewer resources. Concerns have been raised about the potential financial and operational burdens this new responsibility may impose on these systems. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding the adequacy of the report that the DEP must produce within 24 months of the bill's enactment, as it will need to assess the extent of lead service lines and propose further actions to mitigate public health hazards.