Bill > A3773

This bill requires certain senior citizen high-rise buildings, specifically retirement communities with at least 100 dwelling units, to implement 24-hour lobby security if they are located in municipalities with a violent crime rate exceeding six per 1,000 persons, based on the three most recent Uniform Crime Reports from the New Jersey State Police. This security must include at least one licensed security guard stationed in the lobby around the clock and video surveillance cameras monitoring all building exits and entrances, as well as common areas where criminal incidents have occurred in the past 12 months, with recordings kept for at least 60 days. In communities with multiple buildings that collectively have 100 or more units but no single building reaches that threshold, security guards must patrol the entire complex, and video surveillance must cover all entrances and exits. The bill also allows for the Commissioner of Community Affairs to require lobby or interior common area security monitoring in areas with lower violent crime rates if there is evidence of persistent criminal activity against residents. This legislation aims to enhance the safety and well-being of residents in senior housing by mandating specific security measures in areas with higher crime rates.