Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Fuel Gas Sensors topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senate committee releases bill requiring fuel-gas sensors after debate over cost and implementation
Summary
The committee released S1285, which would require fuel-gas sensors in certain dwelling units. Apartment owners and realtors warned of potentially large costs and delays tied to certificates of occupancy; supporters and the sponsor said technology and phased approaches can be discussed.
The Senate Law and Public Safety Committee released S1285 after discussion about cost, feasibility and housing-affordability impacts.
Nicholas Kekas of the New Jersey Apartment Association testified in opposition, saying existing odorization provides an effective system-wide warning and that requiring in-unit electronic gas sensors could be expensive and might require multiple sensors per dwelling. "Our concern is that the requirement to do gas leak sensors comes at a significant cost," Kekas said, adding that codes require sensors be within proximity to each gas appliance and that there are about "3,000,000 homes in New Jersey that that are supplied by natural gas." He urged further conversations to seek cost-effective solutions.
Emily Hicks, representing New Jersey Realtors, also opposed tying sensor installation to certificates of occupancy, warning it could delay closings and shift costs to sellers. "Tying the installation of a fuel gas sensor to the certificate of occupancy could create delays and added cost for home buyers and sellers," Hicks said.
Committee members questioned whether sensors are redundant with odorization and whether a phased or technical solution could reduce costs. Board members and proponents acknowledged potential affordability concerns and said they would continue to consult with stakeholders; the bill includes a 180-day effective period noted by the sponsor to allow for implementation planning.
After discussion, the committee moved and released S1285.
