NJ S4440

Public school districts, charter schools, and renaissance school projects must install at least one exterior key box meeting Underwriters Laboratories Standard 1037 or equivalent national safety standards at each school building by June 30, 2027, subject to available state funding

Key boxes must be placed at locations determined collaboratively with law enforcement and fire personnel, containing keys and access devices for all rooms and buildings on school grounds to enable emergency responder access

Schools may apply to the Commissioner of Education for an exemption if they implement alternative emergency access plans and procedures that meet or exceed the key box requirements

The State will bear all costs for installing new key boxes or replacing existing ones, and schools that purchase compliant key boxes after the act takes effect may apply for reimbursement

The original $2,500,000 appropriation from the General Fund was removed in the first reprint, making implementation contingent on future annual appropriations