Requires landlords of certain properties providing child care services who refuse lead service line replacements to install and maintain water filters.
Impact
This legislation holds landlords accountable by requiring them to obtain annual certifications from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regarding the maintenance of installed filters. It also introduces civil penalties of up to $500 per day for those who fail to comply with the installation and maintenance rules. As such, the bill significantly impacts state laws related to child care facility standards and water quality regulations, driving efforts to ensure a safer environment for vulnerable populations.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4770 requires landlords of residential or non-residential buildings that rent spaces to child care services providers to install and maintain water filters if they have previously denied access to the public community water system for the replacement of lead service lines. This measure aims to protect children from potential lead exposure in drinking water, especially in facilities caring for six or more children under the age of 13. The bill mandates that certain point-of-use filters, certified to meet specific NSF/ANSI standards, be installed at all water fixtures intended for use in food preparation or drinking during operations.
Contention
A significant point of contention in discussing AB A4770 includes its implications for landlord-tenant relationships. The bill provides tenants the right to file for rent escrow if landlords do not adhere to the requirements, allowing them to withhold rent until compliance is achieved. Additionally, if a tenant or a child under care experiences elevated blood lead levels due to a landlord's negligence, the landlord faces unlimited civil liability. This concern raises debates about the balance of responsibilities and protections offered to both landlords and tenants within the context of tenant rights and health safety.
Same As
Requires landlords of certain properties providing child care services who refuse lead service line replacements to install and maintain water filters.
Requires landlords of certain properties providing child care services who refuse lead service line replacements to install and maintain water filters.
Requires landlords of certain properties providing child care services who refuse lead service line replacements to install and maintain water filters.
Allows municipalities to enact ordinances that would permit municipalities and water suppliers to enter properties to perform lead service line replacements and permit tenants to request and schedule private side lead service line replacements.
Allows municipalities to enact ordinances that would permit municipalities and water suppliers to enter properties to perform lead service line replacements and permit tenants to request and schedule private side lead service line replacements.