What is Jake's law?

Jake’s Law, is named after Jake Cummings-Nasto. Jake was a young boy with a congenital heart condition who enjoyed going to playgrounds for his occupational and physical therapy.  Jake’s family’s efforts inspired the law that was signed by Governor Murphy on August 23, 2018.  This New Jersey state law encourages counties to build completely inclusive playgrounds—play areas designed not only for children and adults with disabilities, but as a destination where everyone is able to play together regardless of a disability diagnosis. 

The Department of Community Affairs (DCA), alongside the Department of Education, had to create and enforce regulations for these playgrounds—covering design, installation, maintenance, and inspection. These rules for the playgrounds being constructed under Jake’s Law go above and beyond the standards set for playgrounds within the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Counties and townships that apply to Green Acres  (New Jersey’s parkland conservation program) to build inclusive playgrounds get  funding priority—especially those without such playgrounds already.

The playgrounds include some important features, including but not limited to: accessible parking and routes, ramps and wheelchair-accessible surfacing. inclusive play equipment for various physical and sensory needs. quiet spaces, shading, fencing, and friendly restroom access.

8 new inclusive playgrounds were approved in 2023. 49 projects were approved in 2024, and in April 2025, an additional 40 projects received approval. This means, that because of Jake’s Law, a total of 97 playgrounds will be built in the state of New Jersey 

This is a tremendous achievement—not only for families impacted by disabilities, but for the entire state of New Jersey. It proves what’s possible when advocacy meets action, and when legislation is rooted in compassion and vision for the future.

For OurView, these playgrounds are more than just a space—they stand as symbols  of continued advocacy. It reminds us that our work is not done, and that our work as an organization continues. As some of these projects have already begun taking shape, with the others to soon follow, we are reminded that we are also breaking ground on deeper conversations, deeper connections—in our schools, in our businesses, and across our communities—about why inclusion matters and how we can ensure that every one has a safe, welcoming place to play and grow.

Jake’s Law sets in motion statewide design rules and funding incentives so every

county in New Jersey can eventually have at least one playground  where children of all abilities can play together.

This is a law that makes sure playgrounds are truly accessible and welcoming to everyone—by setting higher standards and offering financial support to build them.