New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2457

Introduced
5/9/22  

Caption

Requires DCA to establish procedures for inspection and abatement of mold hazards in residential buildings and school facilities, and certification programs for mold inspectors and mold hazard abatement workers.

Impact

This legislation, once enacted, will impose new regulations on individuals engaged in mold-related work. It arises from a growing recognition of the health risks associated with mold in indoor environments, particularly for vulnerable populations, such as children in schools. The DCA will have the authority to issue fees and establish continuing education requirements for certified inspectors and abatement workers every two years. This strategy aims to ensure that professionals remain current with the latest industry practices and regulatory compliance, thereby promoting better health outcomes within communities.

Summary

Senate Bill 2457, introduced in New Jersey, aims to enhance the protocols surrounding mold inspection and hazard abatement in residential buildings and school facilities. The bill mandates the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to establish procedures and certification programs for those conducting mold inspections and remediations. These standards are to align with the guidelines set forth by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, ensuring a level of professionalism and knowledge within the industry. By formalizing the certification requirement, the bill seeks to elevate the standard of care provided in these vital areas of public health.

Contention

Some provisions of the bill allow exceptions for employees within school and residential settings who manage routine maintenance tasks, exempting them from certification if they address mold in facilities they manage. This element has stirred discussions regarding accountability and the adequacy of training for these unlicensed workers. Critics argue that while the bill establishes a foundational standard for mold inspections and abatement, it must also ensure comprehensive training for all personnel involved to avert potential health risks stemming from inadequate mold handling.

Companion Bills

NJ A3274

Same As Requires DCA to establish procedures for inspection and abatement of mold hazards in residential buildings and school facilities, and certification programs for mold inspectors and mold hazard abatement workers.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1030

Requires DCA to establish procedures for inspection and abatement of mold hazards in residential buildings and school facilities, and certification programs for mold inspectors and mold hazard abatement workers.

NJ A3274

Requires DCA to establish procedures for inspection and abatement of mold hazards in residential buildings and school facilities, and certification programs for mold inspectors and mold hazard abatement workers.

NJ A5414

Concerns evaluation and abatement of mold hazards in common areas of certain residential developments.

NJ SB786

Mold inspectors and mold remediators; licensure.

NJ AB1179

Hazardous waste facilities: inspections.

NJ AB2094

Hazardous waste facilities: inspections.

NJ AB3019

Oil and gas wells: Hazardous and Idle-Deserted Well Abatement Fund.

NJ HB2195

Virginia Consumer Protection Act; mold remediation and inspections, report.

NJ SB552

Hazardous waste: household hazardous waste: door-to-door collection programs: residential pickup services.

NJ SB1251

Mosquito abatement inspections.

Similar Bills

NJ S1030

Requires DCA to establish procedures for inspection and abatement of mold hazards in residential buildings and school facilities, and certification programs for mold inspectors and mold hazard abatement workers.

NJ A3274

Requires DCA to establish procedures for inspection and abatement of mold hazards in residential buildings and school facilities, and certification programs for mold inspectors and mold hazard abatement workers.

AZ SB1117

Housing; infrastructure; regulation; administration

CA SB830

California Environmental Quality Act: administrative and judicial streamlining benefits: hospital: City of Emeryville.

AZ SB1163

Bond or override; contracts; prohibition

AZ HB2097

Gray water; definition; residential standards

AZ HB2096

Cottage homes; construction; requirements; exemptions

OK HB1818

Professions and occupations; authorizing Construction Industries Board to administer the Uniform Building Code Commission Act; repealer; effective date.