NJ A5720

Public school districts, charter schools, and renaissance school projects must install at least one exterior key box meeting Underwriters Laboratories Standard 1037 or equivalent at each school building by June 30, 2027

Key boxes must be placed at locations determined collaboratively with law enforcement and fire personnel, and contain keys and access control devices for all buildings and rooms on school grounds

Schools may apply to the Commissioner of Education for an exemption if they have implemented alternative plans providing equivalent emergency access for first responders

The State will bear all costs for installing new key boxes or replacing existing ones, with schools able to apply to the commissioner for reimbursement of expenses

Appropriates $2,500,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Education to cover reimbursement costs