Transportation
Target Zero Commission Established to End Traffic Fatalities by 2040 – On January 13th, Governor Phil Murphy signed Bill A1476 (P.L.2024, c.109.) into law, creating the Target Zero Commission to eliminate state traffic fatalities by 2040. The 13-member panel will develop strategies to improve roadway and pedestrian safety, advise the Department of Transportation on infrastructure planning, and provide annual reports to the governor and state lawmakers. This law follows a concentrated push from advocates and family members of individuals injured or killed in traffic accidents. In 2024, the state had 691 traffic fatalities across 655 crashes with 223 of the fatalities being pedestrians, a 30% increase from 2023.
Public Administration
Governor Murphy Delivers State of the State Address, Outlines Final Year Policy Agenda – On January 14th, Governor Phil Murphy delivered the annual State of the State address, outlining his legislative priorities for his final year in office. Governor Murphy urged lawmakers to propose legislation banning classroom cellphone usage, implementing statewide same-day voter registration, restructuring zoning and permitting laws to boost housing construction, and eliminating out-of-pocket costs for abortion procedures, among other proposals. He also requested lawmakers to put forward bills limiting reincarceration for technical parole violations, and providing full-day kindergarten. Governor Murphy highlighted accomplishments under his administration, such as improved state credit ratings, full pension payments, minimum wage increases, and property tax relief programs.
Bill to Expand Protections for Sexual Assault Victims Advances – On January 16th, the Assembly Community Development and Women’s Affairs Committee unanimously advanced Bill A4857. The bill would extend New Jersey’s anti-SLAPP (strategic lawsuits against public participation) protections to victims and individuals reporting sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination. Under the current 2023 law, certain defendants targeted by SLAPPs can seek expedited dismissal of frivolous and retaliatory lawsuits and recover attorney fees if successful. Proponents contended the bill would deter frivolous legal actions and offer greater protection to sexual assault victims from being silenced through litigation. As of 2023, New Jersey became the 33rd state to adopt anti-SLAPP legislation.
Education
Senate Approves School Cellphone Ban – On January 14th, the Senate unanimously approved Bill S3695, which would require the Department of Education to develop a policy restricting cellphone and social media use during classroom instruction with exceptions for emergencies or medical needs. School districts would then be required to adopt restrictions based on this state framework. Education leaders and organizations, including the New Jersey School Boards Association and the New Jersey Association of School Administrators, commended the measure, emphasizing the need to limit causes of student stress and distractions and maximize instructional time.
Cannabis
Applications Open for Cannabis Consumption Lounges – On January 2nd, the Cannabis Regulatory Commission began accepting applications for cannabis consumption lounges. Lounges must adhere to specific guidelines, including being attached to licensed dispensaries, securing municipal approval, and following strict regulations. Regulations include restricting access to individuals aged 21 and older, prohibiting unregulated cannabis products and the sale of food or alcohol, enforcing consumption limits, and implementing odor control measures.