Bill
Bill > S2936
NJ S2936
NJ S2936Prohibits municipalities, school districts, and State departments and agencies from purchasing, installing, or using artificial turf.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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 prohibits municipalities, school districts, and state departments and agencies from purchasing, installing, or using artificial turf for any new or existing fields, though it permits the continued use of already installed artificial turf fields and prevents their replacement with more artificial turf. The bill's findings highlight concerns that artificial turf, often made from recycled tires, contains harmful chemicals like carcinogens, neurotoxicants, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, as well as microplastics, nanoplastics, and perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are persistent chemicals that build up in the body and are linked to various health issues. Additionally, artificial turf surfaces can become significantly hotter than natural grass, posing risks of heat-related illnesses and abrasions, while natural grass is presented as a safer, non-toxic alternative free from these hazards.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/S2936 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S3000/2936_I1.HTM |
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