U.S. Rep. Leonard Lance (R-NJ) announced plans on Monday to introduce a bill that would authorize a grant program designed to help states prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Lance announced the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act during a stop at the Liberty Corner Fire Company in New Jersey, his home state.
“Carbon monoxide is a silent killer – you cannot see it, smell it or taste it,” Lance said. “And too many of these incidents are hitting close to home here in New Jersey. Thanks to detection and the work of this fire company we did not have a tragedy in Basking Ridge, but many are not so lucky. My legislation will help prevent CO poisoning through the installation of CO detectors and other efforts. Lives depend on our action here today.”
Under the bill, a grant program would be established to help states promote the purchase and installation of CO detectors and to encourage states to require that CO detectors be installed in residential homes. Also, a federal grant program would be established to support installation of CO detectors in schools and low-income housing.
“The Liberty Corner Fire Company responds to a good number of carbon monoxide alarms each year, including the incident referenced by our congressman,” Ken White, the chief of the Liberty Corner Fire Company, said. “The proactive and pragmatic approach he has outlined will ensure working detectors in public places and for those who may not be able to afford them otherwise. I support his efforts in introducing this bill, and thank him for his support of the people of our state, county and Bernards Township.”