NJ S1257

Institutions of higher education in New Jersey must test all drinking water outlets for lead within 90 days of the act's effective date, with annual testing thereafter using DEP-certified laboratories.

Test results must be reported to the Secretary of Higher Education and Commissioner of Environmental Protection, posted on the institution's website, and communicated to students, faculty, and staff within 30 days of testing.

Drinking water outlets with elevated lead levels (exceeding EPA or state standards, whichever is stricter) must be immediately closed and alternate water supplies provided until remediation is confirmed.

Institutions must identify all buildings containing lead pipes, lead solder, or lead-containing fixtures, report them to the Secretary of Higher Education, and install certified lead-removal filters on all drinking water outlets in those buildings.

"Drinking water outlet" includes water fountains, faucets, taps used for drinking or food preparation, and ice-making and hot drink machines.