This bill amends the statutory definition of "elevated blood lead level" in New Jersey law. Currently, an elevated blood lead level is defined as a level that equals or exceeds five micrograms per deciliter. The proposed change lowers this threshold to 3.5 micrograms per deciliter, aligning the definition with the most recent recommendations from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This adjustment aims to ensure that responsive actions are taken at lower levels of lead exposure, thereby enhancing public health measures related to lead poisoning.

In addition to the change in the definition, the bill maintains the existing definitions for "Commissioner," "Department," "lead poisoning," and "lead screening." The bill is set to take effect immediately upon enactment, reflecting a proactive approach to addressing lead exposure and its associated health risks, particularly for children.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2-137.3