Inmates Trading Clean Water Like Cigarettes in NJ Prisons

A disturbing phenomenon has emerged in New Jersey correctional facilities where clean water has become a scarce commodity so valuable that inmates trade it like cigarettes, according to advocates and recent reports. Contaminated drinking water and inadequate access to clean alternatives have created an underground economy within prison walls, where bottled water has become a form of currency amid growing health concerns, advocacy organizations report.

Clean Water Action, an environmental advocacy group investigating conditions in the state’s prison system, has documented numerous facilities where inmates are limited to purchasing just 48 bottles of water per month—approximately 1.6 bottles per day—despite health recommendations of 6-8 glasses daily, according to Clean Water Action’s prison water initiative.

Testing Reveals Contamination

Investigations have detected E. coli in drinking water at multiple facilities, raising serious concerns about the adequacy of prison sewer systems and overall water quality. Many correctional facilities are situated near toxic industrial sites, potentially exposing thousands of incarcerated individuals to dangerous environmental contaminants, according to research conducted by the organization.

The water quality issues are exacerbated by aging infrastructure in many of the state’s prisons, some of which were built decades ago and utilize outdated plumbing systems that may contain lead and other harmful materials. These findings mirror similar concerns raised in lawsuits against the state for water contamination at military bases and other facilities.

Health Impact on Vulnerable Population

The water situation creates a particularly dangerous scenario for incarcerated populations, who often come from communities already experiencing environmental injustice and may have pre-existing health conditions. In 2023, New Jersey’s incarcerated population consisted of 13,196 individuals, many of whom may have limited access to adequate healthcare to address conditions worsened by contaminated water.

“The cumulative impacts of climate change and prison infrastructure issues” have contributed to rising rates of asthma and COPD among inmates, according to Clean Water Action’s research. During the wildfire season last year, those incarcerated at Garden State Youth Correctional Facility were particularly vulnerable as smoke permeated facilities with inadequate air filtration.

Hot Weather Compounds Problems

The water access issue becomes particularly critical during summer months when temperatures in prison cells can reach dangerous levels. Reports indicate cell temperatures have reached up to 94°F during heat waves, creating potentially life-threatening conditions for those with heart disease and respiratory conditions.

With limited water access, inmates face serious heat stress and dehydration symptoms that can lead to physical, psychological, and cognitive impairment—conditions made worse by confined environments and high-stress situations, health researchers note.

Growing Legal and Advocacy Response

The water trading phenomenon comes amid increased legal action over environmental contamination across New Jersey. Multiple water contamination lawsuits are currently underway, with recent settlements involving PFAS and other “forever chemicals” in drinking water supplies across the state.

At least three recent environmental enforcement actions have been filed against companies allegedly responsible for water contamination in New Jersey, according to the state Attorney General’s office, though none specifically address prison water systems.