By: Richard L. Smith
The tragic death of a 2-year-old boy who fell from a 20th-floor window at Elizabeth Towers in Newark last November has prompted renewed calls for stronger safety protections in residential buildings.
Assemblyman Stewart and Senator Timberlake said in a joint statement that they are advancing legislation designed to strengthen New Jersey’s existing window guard requirements in multi-unit residential properties.
The proposed measure would expand mandatory window guard installations, increase inspection and compliance standards, and require clearer notification to tenants about their right to request window guards.
It would also enhance protections for households with young children and residents with physical or developmental disabilities, while establishing stricter accountability for property owners who fail to comply.
Assemblyman Stewart called the loss “unimaginable” and emphasized the state’s responsibility to ensure stronger safeguards are in place to prevent similar tragedies.
Senator Timberlake said the incident underscores the urgent need to revisit and reinforce window safety laws across New Jersey, particularly for vulnerable residents.
Both lawmakers stated that the legislation aims to shift the burden away from tenants and ensure building owners meet their obligation to protect families.
The proposed reforms are expected to be introduced as part of a broader effort to prevent preventable falls and strengthen residential safety
standards statewide.