Turner, McKnight Code Red Alert Pilot Program Passes Senate to Protect Vulnerable Residents from Extreme Heat
By Insider NJ |
June 30, 2025, 12:21 pm | in
Caucus Room
In response to rising temperatures and worsening air quality across New Jersey, the Senate has passed legislation sponsored by Senator Shirley K. Turner and Senator Angela McKnight to establish a Code Red alert pilot program. The initiative aims to protect at-risk residents, including people experiencing homelessness and seniors, during periods of extreme heat or unhealthy air.
The bill, S-2346, would create a three-year pilot program under the State Office of Emergency Management. Ten counties, prioritized based on the highest documented homeless populations as identified in the most recent Annual Point in Time Count, would be selected to develop coordinated response plans that activate cooling centers, provide transportation, and ensure communication with vulnerable populations when a Code Red alert is issued.
A Code Red alert would be triggered when the National Weather Service declares a heat advisory or when the Air Quality Index reaches 151 or higher. The legislation requires county and municipal emergency coordinators in municipalities with a documented homeless population of 10 or more sheltered or unsheltered individuals to work together to develop consistent, countywide alert plans.
“As we continue to see dangerous heat events impact New Jersey, this bill helps us build the infrastructure needed to respond quickly and compassionately,” said Senator Turner (D-Mercer/Hunterdon). “Everyone deserves safe shelter and support during extreme weather, especially those without the means to protect themselves.”
Prior to declaring a Code Red alert, the coordinator of each participating county or their designee will monitor the municipality within their county that has the highest documented homeless population, using National Weather Service forecasts for that area to guide the decision.
Participating counties would each receive $500,000 in grant funding, drawn from a total appropriation of $5 million. These funds would support the establishment and operation of emergency cooling centers, outreach to at-risk individuals, and transportation services. Cooling center locations would be reported to the Department of Environmental Protection and included in Heat Hub NJ’s Chill Out NJ public resource.
“This is about saving lives,” said Senator McKnight (D-Hudson). “Too many New Jerseyans, especially in underserved communities, are left exposed when extreme heat hits. This program will ensure that help is available before the situation becomes an emergency.”
To ensure public awareness and coordination, participating counties and municipalities will be responsible for notifying the State Office of Emergency Management of their designated lead agency and keeping contact information updated. They will also be required to make their Code Red alert plans publicly accessible, either via county and municipal websites or as otherwise directed by the state.
The bill also provides Good Samaritan protections to state and local government personnel, nonprofit organizations, and volunteers involved in implementing a Code Red alert plan.
