On June 30, the senate passed legislation sponsored by Senator Linda Greenstein and Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz that would require the disclosure of lead drinking water hazards to tenants of residential units, prohibit landlords from obstructing the replacement of lead service lines and require testing, upon request by a customer, for the presence of lead in drinking water. The bill was passed in a 39-0 vote.
“The presence of lead in drinking water represents a significant threat to the health and safety of New Jersey’s children and residents. Data suggests that exposure to relatively small amounts of lead can result in serious health complications, including difficulties with memory and concentration, and miscarriages or premature birth in pregnant women,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Mercer/Middlesex).
“We must be vigilant in our fight against lead exposure by ensuring that customers and consumers are provided with as much information as possible surrounding their risk and are allowed the ability to have lead service lines replaced.”
The bill, S-1034, would require the Department of Health, in consultation with the Department of Environmental Protection, to develop a notice within six months of the effective date of the bill that provides consumers with information concerning the health risks associated with lead in drinking water and methods to avoid exposure, the installation and use of filters and the ability to obtain testing.
Landlords would be required to provide a “Lead in Drinking Water Disclosure” that includes the aforementioned Department of Health notice or instructions on how to obtain it, as well as information about the date that the rental property was constructed, an acknowledgement of the rental property being serviced by a lead service line or a service line of unknown composition, information about whether or not a lead exceedance has been detected in the area in which the rental property is located, as well as other relevant information.
This requirement would not apply to landlords of residential properties constructed after 1986; residential properties determined not to be serviced by a lead service line; or seasonal rental units.
“I represent a district with many renters living in buildings constructed during the time when lead service lines were prevalent,” said Senator Ruiz (D-Essex/Hudson). “Renters deserve to know their risk of lead exposure, how they can reduce that risk and be assured that their landlords won’t block a replacement. This legislation prioritizes community health by empowering tenants with essential information, mandating transparency from landlords and ensuring that necessary lead service line replacements can occur without obstruction.”
