This bill aims to prohibit municipalities, school districts, and State departments and agencies in New Jersey from purchasing, installing, or using artificial turf for any new or existing fields. It allows for the continued use of already installed artificial turf fields but prohibits their replacement with new artificial turf. The legislation highlights the numerous health and environmental hazards associated with synthetic turf, including harmful chemicals such as carcinogens, neurotoxicants, and endocrine disruptors, as well as the presence of microplastics and PFAS, which are linked to various health issues.

The bill emphasizes that natural grass does not carry the same health and environmental risks as synthetic turf and advocates for the investment in safe, non-toxic natural grass playing fields instead. It argues that the purported benefits of synthetic turf, such as cost-effectiveness and low maintenance, are outweighed by the significant health and safety concerns it poses. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.