New Jersey Assembly Bill A1964

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Strengthens provisions of child-protection window guard law.

Impact

The proposed law significantly impacts landlord-tenant relationships and the overall responsibility landlords have in ensuring child safety. Landlords are required to not only install window guards but also to provide tenants with annual notifications highlighting their responsibilities and the option to waive the installation of guards. This is anticipated to reduce the number of accidents resulting from window falls among young children, effectively requiring landlords to take proactive measures in child-proofing their properties.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1964 amends and strengthens the existing child-protection window guard law in New Jersey. The bill mandates that landlords must install and maintain window guards in any rental unit where a child aged 10 years or younger resides or where the tenant requests the installation, regardless of whether children live in the unit. This legislative change aims to enhance child safety in residential units, particularly after tragic incidents highlighting the risks associated with unguarded windows. The bill shifts the existing opt-in system to a more protective opt-out system, increasing protection measures for vulnerable young children in residential environments.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked debate over landlord burdens and tenant rights. Landlords may argue that the bill places additional responsibilities and liabilities on them, especially considering the costs associated with installing and maintaining these guards. Conversely, tenant advocates argue that these measures are essential for child safety, particularly in high-rise buildings where the risk of window-related accidents is heightened. The legislation also removes exceptions for seasonal rental units from the previous law, ensuring that all rental situations are held to similar safety standards.