This bill mandates that landlords disclose lead drinking water hazards to tenants in residential units and prohibits any obstruction to the replacement of lead service lines. Landlords are required to provide a "Lead In Drinking Water Disclosure" statement to prospective or current tenants prior to lease or renewal agreements. This statement must include details about the presence of lead service lines, the property's construction date, any recent exceedances of lead action levels, and associated health risks. However, properties constructed after 1986, those serviced by lead-safe lines, or classified as seasonal rentals are exempt from these disclosure requirements.

Furthermore, the bill directs the Department of Health to create educational materials on lead in drinking water within six months of enactment, ensuring public accessibility. It mandates public community water systems to test drinking water for lead upon customer request, providing one free test per year unless lead action levels are exceeded. The legislation also allows tenants to terminate their lease without penalty if a landlord obstructs lead service line replacement and establishes a violation process with escalating penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, it permits public community water systems to recover testing costs through their rate base or by petitioning the Board of Public Utilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 58:12A-43