Requires front-loading clothes washing machines and dryers to have child safety locks; requires installation of safety locks and warning for machines previously purchased without child safety locks.

This New Jersey bill (S 1101) requires all new front-loading washing machines and dryers sold in the state to include child safety locks that prevent young children from opening the doors. It also mandates manufacturers to provide free safety locks and warning stickers for existing machines purchased without locks, with vendors coordinating installation at the manufacturer’s expense. The law cites Consumer Product Safety Commission data showing at least three child deaths and 3,000 injuries since 2014 from children being trapped in these appliances. The bill aims to reduce this risk by making safety locks standard and ensuring retroactive safety measures for previously sold machines.