Public Administration
Signature Thresholds for Ballot Placement Increased by New Law – On February 3rd, Governor Phil Murphy signed Bill A5117 (P.L.2025, c.20.) into law, increasing the number of signatures required for candidates to qualify for primary, general, and other election ballots by 150%. Supporters contend that the higher thresholds will prevent frivolous candidates from crowding ballots. However, Republican lawmakers largely opposed the measure, arguing it unfairly lowers ballot accessibility for candidates. The increased thresholds will take effect immediately, impacting the upcoming 2025 primary and general elections.
Environment
State Judge Dismisses Climate Lawsuit Against Oil Companies – On February 5th, a New Jersey Superior Court judge dismissed the state’s lawsuit against major oil companies, ruling that only federal law can govern claims related to interstate and international fossil fuel emissions. The lawsuit, filed in 2022, alleged that oil companies misled the public about the connection between fossil fuels and climate change despite industry knowledge. The attorney general’s office announced they will appeal the decision immediately. If the lawsuit is successful, oil companies could be subject to financial penalties for damages.
Health
Senate Committee Advances Bill Mandating Medicaid Coverage for Motorized Wheelchairs in Nursing Homes – On February 3rd, the Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee unanimously advanced Bill S3438, which would mandate Medicaid to cover motorized wheelchairs for nursing facility residents. While Medicaid currently funds motorized wheelchairs for prescribed patients, coverage for nursing home residents is left to the discretion of the facility, which proponents argue is a critical gap. Motorized wheelchairs often cost around $30,000-$40,000, with additional expenses for maintenance and repair.
Education
Lawmakers Examine Chronic Absenteeism in Schools – On February 6th, the Senate Education Committee held a hearing to address rising chronic absenteeism in New Jersey schools. Advocacy groups and organizations, such as Advocates for Children of New Jersey and Mercer Street Friends, noted several key issues as drivers of absenteeism, such as mental health struggles, bullying, transportation barriers, and academic disengagement. Advocates also expressed strong support for community schools as a solution, which are public schools which serve as both an educational institution and a hub for community resources which can include youth development, health and human services, and community development. This model is captured in Bill A4107 and Bill A3124, which were introduced in early 2024 but have since seen no legislative movement. Students are classified as chronically absent if they miss at least 10% of the school year. The state’s current absenteeism rate is 16.6%.