Lead in school drinking water has become a major issue since the detection in Flint, Michigan and Newark, New Jersey schools.

​

The NJ State Board of Education promulgated on July 13, 2016, by Special Adoption, Regulations (N.J.A.C. 6A:26) that require testing for lead in the drinking water of all public school districts, charter schools, State-funded early childcare facilities, et al.

​

Lead testing every 3 years is now required.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

After The Department of Education enacted a rule for testing lead in all schools, the Department of Children & Families quickly followed suit.  The regulations for licensing is quite similar, except it adds the requirement of copper along with lead.  Also, the taps required for testing are dictated by drinking water taps as well as 50% of all other taps in the location.

​

Guidance material is currently being developed to aid with the new Department of Children & Families, Office of Licensing new copper & lead requirements.  As of right now, the current guidance mirrors that of school lead testing.  We will keep this page updated as the State finalizes their documentation.