This bill prohibits municipalities, school districts, and State departments and agencies in New Jersey from purchasing, installing, or using artificial turf for new or existing fields. It allows for the continued use of any artificial turf fields that have already been installed, but mandates that they cannot be replaced with artificial turf once they are no longer usable. The legislation highlights the numerous health and environmental risks 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 hazards as synthetic turf and advocates for the use of organic maintenance practices to mitigate risks. It argues that despite claims of synthetic turf being cost-effective and low-maintenance, the potential dangers to human health and the environment significantly outweigh these perceived benefits. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.