Code Red Law Could Be Coming To New Jersey On Scorching Hot Summer Days

Legislation in the New Jersey state Legislature could bring about significant changes in how the state handles extreme heat. Assembly bill A3540, and an identical bill in the Senate, aims to establish a pilot program called “Code Red” that would provide cooling centers for homeless residents across the state during periods of intense heat.

The proposed legislation bears similarities to New Jersey’s existing “Code Blue” law, which was enacted in 2017. The Code Blue law allows counties and local governments to open warming centers and arrange shelter for adults experiencing homelessness during freezing temperatures. If approved by the state Legislature and signed by Governor Phil Murphy, the Code Red law would establish a pilot program with a similar framework for the state’s scorching summer months, which are projected to be exceptionally hot this year.

Under the Code Red law, counties would issue an alert if the heat index is expected to reach between 95 and 99 degrees Fahrenheit for at least two consecutive days, or if temperatures soar above 100 degrees for any duration. This alert would trigger the opening of cooling centers to provide respite for individuals without shelter.

According to the bill, each county’s office of emergency management would be mandated to collaborate with municipal officials in order to establish a shelter system in partnership with local volunteer organizations.

Last month, the Assembly Housing Committee voted 6-0, with one abstention, to approve the bill, subsequently referring it to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for further consideration. The Senate version of the bill is currently awaiting a hearing.

During discussions, some county and municipal officials raised concerns about the potential cost implications associated with implementing the Code Red law. Hunterdon County’s public safety director, Brayden Fahey, testified before the Assembly Housing Committee, expressing apprehension that a “Code Red” declaration could place financial burdens on municipalities and counties.

Fahey also highlighted the logistical challenges, stating that local police officers would likely need to transport individuals seeking shelter to cooling centers during Code Red alerts, which he deemed “unsustainable.”

The state Office of Legislative Services estimated that the bill would cost taxpayers up to $2 million annually, totaling $6 million over the course of the proposed three-year Code Red alert pilot program.

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