Acting Governor Tahesha Way signed a new law today, Sept. 19, giving New Jersey renters the ability to test their tap water for lead.
The law requires landlords to tell current and prospective tenants if a property may have lead in its water. Tenants can also request a free test and end their lease without penalty if a landlord blocks the replacement of lead pipes.
The measure builds on the 2021 Lead Service Line Replacement Law, which aims to remove all lead service lines by 2031. New Jersey has more than 135,000 lead service lines and about 873,000 lines of unknown material. Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for children, and there is no safe level in drinking water.
Many older homes and apartments in the state still have lead pipes, making this law especially important. “Every resident deserves to know their water is safe,” said Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli, a sponsor of the law. “This gives renters the information and tools they need to protect their families.”
The law also directs the Department of Health, Department of Community Affairs, and Department of Environmental Protection to post public notices about lead risks and ways to reduce exposure. Landlords must share information about lead service lines and any violations of the law.
Officials say the measure holds landlords and water systems accountable while giving renters practical ways to protect themselves. New Jersey has already replaced more than 22,000 lead lines in recent years as part of ongoing efforts.
Long-term lead exposure can affect children’s development, behavior, and learning. Housing and public health advocates called the law a major step forward. “This law is a big win for renters,” said Deandrah Cameron, Policy Manager at New Jersey Future. “Access to testing and disclosure gives families the chance to keep their homes safe.”
By ensuring renters know about lead risks and can act to reduce exposure, the law strengthens ongoing state efforts to provide safe drinking water and replace all lead service lines by 2031.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.