2014 New Jersey Revised Statutes
Title 26 - HEALTH AND VITAL STATISTICS
Section 26:2-137.2 - Findings, declarations relative to lead exposure of children

26:2-137.2.Findings, declarations relative to lead exposure of children
1.The Legislature finds and declares that:

a. According to the New Jersey Department of Health, 630,000 children under the age of six are at risk of lead poisoning in New Jersey and should be screened for elevated lead levels. Of this number, the Department of Health estimates that 177,000 pre-school children are at particularly high risk of lead poisoning;

b. Approximately 70,000 pre-school children, or almost 10% of the population of children under age six, are currently screened for lead poisoning;

c. Screening is an essential element of the fight to reduce and eventually eliminate childhood lead poisoning, and identification of children in the early stages of lead exposure can prevent children from suffering severe cases of lead poisoning;

d. A universal lead screening program will identify which children require medical evaluation and treatment and will alert parents about the need to identify lead hazards in their home;

e. A universal lead screening program that is integrated with education and community outreach programs will raise public consciousness about the insidious dangers of childhood lead poisoning, and encourage parents to take preventive steps to make their homes lead-safe and communities to strengthen lead prevention programs; and

f. Universal lead screening and the universal reporting of lead test results will provide the Department of Health and local boards of health with information on high risk neighborhoods and communities and can result in targeted lead hazard reduction programs in the areas of greatest need.

L.1995,c.328,s.1.