Most of us have heard of Code Blue. It’s activated when temperatures drop below the freezing point (32º F) with precipitation and below 25º F without precipitation and weather conditions pose a danger to those unsheltered. During that time counties are required to provide shelter or warming centers. For quite a few years, advocates in the state have asked for the same declaration when temperatures become unbearably hot as well as times of poor air quality, named Code Red.
As one of Governor Murphy’s last acts he signed Code Red into law. As stated in a press release from Housing & Community Development Network of New Jersey (the Network), “Code Red establishes a statewide framework to ensure coordinated responses during climate emergencies, particularly for people experiencing homelessness who are disproportionately impacted by extreme weather and environmental hazards. As climate change continues to intensify these risks, the law provides a critical foundation for proactive, life-saving interventions.”
“This bill is a tremendous victory because it combines a law rooted in compassion with common sense and public safety,” said Matthew Hersh, vice president of policy and advocacy for the Network. “By signing Code Red into law, Governor Murphy has affirmed that no one in New Jersey should be left without protection during extreme and dangerous weather conditions. This law will save lives.”
We at Family Promise of Sussex County applaud this decision as well. We see firsthand the impacts of harsh weather on those who are unsheltered. It can lead to illness, exacerbate existing chronic health conditions, or worse case cause a preventable death.