New Jersey Senate Bill S385

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Requires certain residential developers to replace lead service lines.

Impact

The bill's enforcement mechanism requires that developers submit proof of compliance—either through an independent assessment confirming that no lead service line exists or that any identified lead service line has been properly replaced—before a certificate of occupancy can be issued. This significantly elevates the responsibility placed on developers and municipalities regarding public health standards and aligns local construction practices with broader environmental health initiatives.

Summary

Senate Bill 385, presented in the New Jersey legislature, mandates that developers of residential properties who receive benefits from municipalities must determine if their water service lines contain lead and replace them if necessary. The bill particularly targets those developers benefiting from financial incentives such as tax abatements, exemptions, or other forms of municipal support. Its primary aim is to enhance public health and safety by mitigating the risks associated with lead contamination in drinking water, which has been linked to various health issues, especially in vulnerable populations like children.

Contention

Notably, there may be contention surrounding the bill as it imposes additional obligations on developers, which some may perceive as a financial burden or an infringement of their operational autonomy. Proponents argue that the health of the community takes precedence and that protecting residents from the dangers of lead exposure through stringent regulations is essential. On the contrary, detractors might contend that this requirement could discourage developers from pursuing projects in municipalities that enforce such regulations, potentially stifling economic growth in those regions.