Bill

Bill > S3783


NJ S3783

NJ S3783
Prohibits municipalities, school districts, and State departments and agencies from purchasing, installing, or using artificial turf.


summary

Introduced
10/10/2024
In Committee
10/10/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill would prohibit the purchase, installation, or use of artificial turf by a municipality, school district, or State department or agency for a new or existing field. This bill permits the continued use of artificial turf fields that have been already installed. Synthetic turf contains a myriad of chemicals known to be harmful to humans, including carcinogens, neurotoxicants, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, as well as microplastics, nanoplastics, and perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Natural grass is free of the health and environmental hazards associated with synthetic turf. While synthetic turf is often touted as cost-effective, low-maintenance, and water-saving, the environmental, health, and safety risks greatly outweigh the intended benefits.

AI Summary

This bill would prohibit municipalities, school districts, and state departments or agencies from purchasing, installing, or using artificial turf. It highlights the environmental and health risks associated with synthetic turf, which contains harmful chemicals, microplastics, and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). The bill allows for the continued use of existing artificial turf fields but prohibits their replacement with new synthetic turf. The bill instead encourages the use of natural grass playing fields, which are free of such hazards and can be maintained through organic practices.

Committee Categories

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee (on 10/10/2024)

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