New Jersey Assembly Bill A4732

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/12/24
• Refer: 9/12/24

Caption

Requires defibrillators in certain multiple dwellings; establishes Affordable Housing Defibrillator Fund.

Impact

The introduction of A4732 could significantly impact state laws surrounding health and safety in housing. By establishing mandatory health protocols in urban multiple dwellings, the bill seeks to address public health concerns associated with cardiac events occurring in densely populated areas. The existing legal framework would be augmented to support these new requirements and the establishment of the Affordable Housing Defibrillator Fund, which would provide grants to property owners to comply with the AED requirements. This fund would be administered by the Department of Community Affairs and aim to foster compliance, particularly among affordable housing providers.

Summary

Bill A4732 mandates that all multiple dwellings with 30 or more units located in urban municipalities (defined as those with populations exceeding 50,000) be equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED). This legislation aims to enhance health and safety measures within these residential buildings by making life-saving devices readily accessible to all residents and guests. Additionally, the bill includes requirements for the proper maintenance and visibility of these defibrillators to ensure they are operational when needed.

Contention

Although the bill is primarily focused on improving access to emergency medical resources, there may be discussions around the financial implications for landlords and property management companies regarding installation, maintenance, and training associated with AED use. Potential debates could arise concerning the allocation of public funds through the Affordable Housing Defibrillator Fund, balancing between enhancing safety and managing the financial responsibilities of property ownership in urban environments. Various stakeholders may have differing opinions on how far the state should go in regulating private property agreements for public health benefits.