SB 1198 Summary

• Establishes a multi-stakeholder working group to study and recommend standards for school indoor air quality, including optimal temperature/humidity ranges, emergency closure thresholds, HVAC system performance benchmarks, and inspection frequency protocols, with a report due by July 1, 2024.

• Requires local and regional boards of education to conduct annual indoor air quality inspections using EPA's Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Program starting January 1, 2024 for schools constructed after January 1, 2003.

• Mandates uniform HVAC system inspections every five years (starting January 1, 2025) performed by certified technicians, industrial hygienists, or mechanical engineers, with written reports documenting required corrective actions.

• Establishes a Department of Administrative Services electronic portal to receive and publicly display school indoor air quality and HVAC inspection reports and results, searchable and aggregated by school.

• Authorizes $375 million in state bonds for grants-in-aid for school air quality improvements and HVAC upgrades, with $150 million effective July 1, 2024; requires Public Health Commissioner to develop thermal comfort guidelines of 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit for school buildings by July 1, 2024.