July 2019 Interest Arbitration Update

In June, mediators appointed by the Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) issued three interest arbitration awards. The first interest arbitration awards to be issued since the expiration of the 2% cap. Each of these awards arose out of an impasse...

New Jersey SFY 2022 Budget Update

Over the past month, State Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 budget hearings have continued to be held by the Legislature. The Governor’s proposed FY 2022 budget includes a full payment to the pension system, a flat increase from the FY 2021 budget to the State, and ...

FY 2021 State Budget-Municipal Interest

On Tuesday, February 23, Governor Murphy delivered the annual budget address. The Governor’s proposed $44.8 billion budget will guide the State’s spending through the next (FY 2022) fiscal year. While the full details of the Governor&a...

Local Finance Board Oks DLGS 2021 Budget Calendar Year Extension

On Wednesday, the Local Finance Board approved the proposed Division of Local Government Services 2021 Calendar Year (CY) Budget extensions. The revised CY 2019 Budget deadlines follow:

Mayor/Council Faulkner Act (Executive) budget transmission to the gove...

Property Tax Relief Bill Hearing on Monday

On Monday, the Assembly State and Local Government Committee will hear A-2991. This legislation will clarify the telecommunications industry's corporate tax responsibilities, and shield local taxpayers from the costs of endless tax court litigation.&n...

MIllioniares' Tax to Bolster State Budget

An agreement has been reached by Governor Phil Murphy and Legislative leaders on an income tax rate hike (from 8.97% to 10.75%) on earnings in excess of $1 million. The higher rate currently applies to income over $5 million. Announcing the agreement, Gov...

League Position on Governor's Budget Proposed Presented to Legislature

The League of Municipalities’ position on the Governor’s proposed FY 21 budget has been presented by League President Jim Perry and League Executive Director Mike Cerra to the members of both the Senate Budget and Appropriation Committ...

State Budget Deliberations Begin

Yesterday, both the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee and the Assembly Budget Committee began their review of Governor Murphy’s proposed State Budget for FY ’21. That budget needs to be enacted by the end of this month, and it...

Proposed Budget Holds ETR/CMPTRA Level

Today, in Piscataway, Governor Murphy presented his revised budget proposal for State Fiscal Year 2021 (SFY ’21) to the Legislature and people of New Jersey. If adopted by the Legislature, as is, the budget would hold combined appropriations for...

DLGS Issues LFN on Enery Tax Receipt & CMPTRA Payment Program

The Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2020-17 summarizing the Energy Tax Receipt and CMPTRA payment program for CY 2020 and SFY 2020 extension budgets. The Energy Tax Receipt and CMPTRA August 1 installment payment was 45% ...

Interim State Budget Enacted

On Monday, the Legislature passed and the Governor signed the Supplemental Appropriations bill that will permit state spending to bridge the gap between the usual end of the Fiscal Year, on June 30, and this year’s final day, September 30.

This b...

Bridge Budget Bill Introduced

Because of the extension of the State’s current Fiscal Year for an additional three months, the Legislature must pass and the Governor sign a Supplemental Appropriations bill by midnight, June 30. On Thursday, June 24, Assemblywoman Eliana Pinto...

Share the Message: MunisAreEssential

The League has launched the MunisAreEssential campaign in response to budget shortfalls local governments are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is encouraging local officials to contact their state and federal legislators to support ...

Are You Ready for Police & Fire Contract Negotiations?

Could different contract provisions increase efficiency in your fire services? Is there a way to provide more effective policing, while lowering costs? And how much do your neighbors pay for police and fire protection? The answers to these questions can h...

Legislature Focuses on State Three-Month Budget Plan

Yesterday in Trenton, the Assembly Budget Committee heard testimony from the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services’ Budget and Finance Officer, Frank Haines, and State Treasurer, Elizabeth Maher Muoio, regarding Governor Murphy’s ...

DLGS Extends Deadlines

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2020-13 outlining extensions to various fiscal, property tax and licensed officials deadlines that the Director extended by issuing a deadline extension order.

Included among the ex...

Gov. Signs Legislation Setting 2020 Tax Appeal Date

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed into law A-4157, which extends the statutory deadline to file a property tax appeal from May 1, 2020 to July 1, 2020 and provides the County Board of Taxation until September 30, 2020 to render a decision on a tax...

State Budget Update

Today State Treasurer Liz Muoio issued a report on the fiscal condition of the state budget. The report indicates that the State can expect an up-to $10 billion shortfall between now and June 2021. The data reflects a shortfall of $2.75 billion through th...

Your Action Needed on COVID-19 Bonding

On Thursday the Assembly passed by a vote of 57-20 A-3971 which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” by municipalities and counties. Specifically, A-3971 permits municipalities to issue bonds for the loss of revenue an...

NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission Holds Second Meeting

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission held its second public meeting on Thursday. The Commission took action on a number of procedural issues, including adopting a meeting schedule for the year. Although not mentioned during the meeting, the Commission is ta...

Cannabis Survey

With the new law creating a legal marijuana market in New Jersey, the League has worked with the Cannabis Advisory Group (CAG) to develop a survey for New Jersey mayors. The purpose of this survey is to identify the most pressing challenges and concerns f...

Cannabis Regulatory Commission Holds First Meeting

On Monday, the Cannabis Regulatory Commission held its first meeting. The Commission is tasked with creating rules and regulations regarding legalized and medical cannabis within the state. At this first meeting, the Commission took the necessary procedur...

Cannabis Legalization Deadlines

As we have previously reported, any municipal ordinances adopted prior to the February 22, 2021 adoption of P.L.2021, c.16, prohibiting or limiting cannabis establishments are null and void. Municipalities have until August 21, 2021, 180 days from the sig...

Governor Signs Parental Notification Legislation

Earlier today, Governor Murphy signed S-5472/S-3565 requiring law enforcement to provide a parent, guardian or other person having legal custody of a person under the age of 18 with a written notification for any violation for underage consumption or poss...

March 4: Cannabis Legalization

Earlier this week we sent out a special update on guidance on cannabis legalization as well as a full opt-out ordinance template language. On March 3 we held a legislative briefing session on the legalization of recreational use of cannabis and based on t...

Cannabis Legalization Guidance

Guidance on Cannabis LegalizationFull Opt-Out Ordinance Template Language

Background

 In November 2020, New Jersey voters approved Public Question No. 1, which amended the New Jersey Constitution to allow for the legalization of a controlled form o...

Feb. 26, 2021 Cannabis Update

On Monday Governor Murphy signed into law legislation legalizing and regulating cannabis use and possession for adults 21 years and older (A-21 – The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act) and decriminal...

NJ AG Launches Marijuana Decriminalization & Legalization Resource Page

This week, on the heels of Governor Murphy signing legislation changing the legal status of marijuana, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal announced the launch of a Marijuana Decriminalization & Cannabis Legalization Resource Page. The webpage is intended ...

Gov. Murphy Signs Legalization Legislation

As of this writing, it has been announced that the Governor has signed the legislation legalizing adult recreational use of cannabis, the decriminalization of cannabis, and the clean-up legislation that addresses possession by those under 21. We will be s...

Appellate Panel Rules on Medical Cannabis Facility Permit Applications

This week, the NJ Appellate Division issued an unpublished decision, allowing the state to resume its review of medical marijuana license applications. The review had previously been put on hold while the court examined a challenge to the application proc...

Marijuana Legalization Update

On December 17, both Houses of the State Legislature gave final approval to two bills related to the legalization of adult-use recreational marijuana, following the approval of the ballot question in November. Governor Murphy has until February 8 to act o...

Cannabis Clean Up Legislation Held

Initially, both the Assembly and Senate were scheduled to consider legislation to clarify the recent cannabis legislation, A-5211/S-3320, on Monday. However, as of this afternoon, it appears the deal to legalize and decriminalize cannabis collapsed report...

Cannabis Legislation on Governor’s Desk

Yesterday, both the Assembly, by a vote of 49-24-6, and the Senate, by a vote of 23-17, approved S-21/A-21, which is the enabling legislation, legalizing, and regulating the adult recreational use of cannabis pursuant to passage of the constitutional amen...

Cannabis Legislation Advancing

Late last week Governor Murphy and legislative leaders reached an agreement on the legalization of adult recreational use of cannabis. In the announcement Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney, Speaker Coughlin, Senator Scutari and Assemblywoman Quija...

AG Issues Marijuana Charge Guidance

Last week, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal issued additional guidance to prosecutors concerning the prosecution of low-level marijuana cases, supplementing his August 29, 2018 and November 4, 2020 guidance.The Attorney General’s guidance directs all New Je...

Legalization of Marijuana Legislation

Differences remain between the State Senate and General Assembly on A-21/S-21, the enabling legislation to legalize cannabis pursuant to the voter approval of Ballot Question #1. The pending legislation still contains local tax options as well as a 180 da...

Conference Session Discusses Legalized Cannabis

It’s official, the voters of New Jersey have giving their approval to the ballot question on the legalization of recreational marijuana for those over 21. What’s next?Join our session “Marijuana in the Mile High City – A Collaborative Approach” at the 105...

Assembly Approves Bill Decriminalizing Small Amounts of Marijuana

Yesterday, the Assembly passed A-1897 which aims to decriminalize marijuana and promote awareness of the expungement process. The bill would replace arrests for possessing up to two ounces of marijuana or hashish with a civil fine of $50. A-1897 would als...

Census Announces Delay in Apportionment Data to States

The U.S. Census Bureau recently announced that redistricting data to all states will be delivered by September 30, 2021. This is a six-month delay from the announced date of March 31, 2021 to deliver the data. The Census Bureau will deliver information al...

Final NJ Census Push in Full Swing

There are just a few weeks remaining until the Census ends on September 30.Across the state, Census takers are knocking on the doors of those households that have not yet responded. New Jersey is officially in the midst of the final Get Out The Count (GOT...

Census 2020- Time Is Running Out

The U.S. Census Bureau will stop counting residents in your municipality, and across the State and Nation, in less than four weeks. This year’s – this decade’s – truncated schedule for in-person contact will end on ...

Census Bureau Moves to Cut Data Collection Phase Short

Late last week, the U.S. Census Bureau released information on a number of steps being taken to shorten the time for field data collection, to the end of September, and to provide reapportionment data to the Congress by the end of the year. Until this ann...

Urge Your Citizens to Respond to the Census

To be blunt about it, the U.S. Census is all about two things: Funding and Representation. Every one of your citizens who remains uncounted is a missed opportunity. And every missed opportunity is a bonus for those living elsewhere. What your citizens do,...

Week of May 3: COVID-19 Report

Earlier this week Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 238 easing certain restrictions on indoor dining, bar seating, outdoor gatherings, and more. The Governor also announced that, effective May 19, New Jersey will remove COVID-19 capacity restrictions...

Week of April 26: COVID-19 Weekly Update

Earlier this week, Governor Murphy announced that New Jersey will be easing restrictions on outdoor gatherings and indoor catered events. Earlier this week, Governor Murphy announced that New Jersey will be easing restrictions on outdoor gatherings and in...

Week of April 19: COVID-19 Update

This week COVID-19 continues to focus on vaccinations, gatherings, and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.COVID-19 Data for April 22, 2021

• New Confirmed Cases – 2,895
• New Probable Cases – 527
• Rate of Transmission .093
• New Lab-Confirmed Dea...

Week of April 12:COVID-19 Weekly Update

This week New Jersey paused the administering of the J&J COVID-19 vaccine upon the recommendation, of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration pending further investigation into six reported incidences of sev...

Week of April 5, 2021: COVID-19 Update

The Governor this week announced that effective April 19 all New Jersey residents over the age of 16 will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and noted that with the more than 750 vaccination sites in New Jersey 98.7% of residents live within five m...

Week of March 29 COVID-19 Update

The Governor this week announced increased outdoor gathering limits and a new COVID-19 vaccine appointment finder. He also discussed the latest modeling from the Department of Health.In regards to the Department of Health modeling, the Governor highlighte...

Week of March 22: COVID-19 Update

Today the Governor announced an expansion of those eligible for the vaccine along with a partnership with the Biden Administration to open a pilot FEMA Community Vaccination Center located in Newark. Earlier this week the Governor noted that working with ...

Week of March 15: COVID-19 Weekly Update

This week the Governor noted that Thursday marked one year since the closure of schools and the transition to all-remote learning. During his remarks the Governor stated that, “Come September, it is our complete expectation that every school will be open,...

Week of March 8: COVID Update

March 10 was the one-year anniversary of New Jersey’s first COVID-19 confirmed death. Governor Phil Murphy noted that “the toll of this virus has been staggering. It exceeds the numbers of New Jerseyans lost in any war. In one year, we...

COVID-19 Weekly Update: Week of March 1

This week in Trenton on the COVID-19 front: March 4 marked the one-year anniversary of the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in New Jersey. During his March 3, COVID briefing Governor Phil Murphy reviewed the steps New Jersey has taken in response. In addi...

Week of Feb. 22: COVID-19 Weekly Update

This week in Trenton on the COVID-19 front: Governor Phil Murphy issued an Executive Order increasing capacities for religious services, as well as sporting and entertainment events and announced New Jersey should anticipate approximately 70,000 of the Jo...

Week of February 15: COVID-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton: Governor Phil Murphy along with Acting Commissioner of Education Angelica Allen-McMillan released a plan on the learning gap. Vaccination deliveries have been delayed due to weather but it is antic...

Week of February 8: COVID-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to focus on vaccinations but also included an Executive Order on attendance at youth sporting events, information on upcoming elections, and the reopening of EDA’s applications for small...

Week of February 1: Covid-19 Update

This week Governor Phil Murphy issued an Executive Order expanding indoor dining and limiting the 10 p.m. curfew on closings of restaurants. The Governor announced that Johnson and Johnson has submitted an application for emergency use authorization from ...

Week of January 24: Covid-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to center on vaccinations, with the toll-free vaccination hotline going live and all of the mega-sites up and running. The Governor issued an Executive Order permitting both electronic and in-pers...

Week of January 18: COVID-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to center on vaccinations.  U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker announced today that New Jersey’s Department of Health will receive $591 million in federal funding for the vaccination progra...

COVID-19 Update: Week of January 4

Today, Governor Murphy announced that there were 5,791 new positive cases and an additional 112 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 516,608 confirmed cases, and 17,697 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is 1.02. Sinc...

Week of December 21 COVID-19 Update

Today, Governor Murphy announced that there were 4,871 new positive cases and an additional 80 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 449,842 confirmed cases, and 16,599 confirmed deaths. The...

Week of December 14: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 3,975 new positive cases and an additional 44 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 423,226 confirmed cases and 16,216 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1...

Covid-19 Update: Week of December 6

Governor Murphy today announced that there were 3,821 new positive cases and an additional 55 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 390,256 confirmed cases, and 15,794 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.14. The...

Covid-19 Update: Week of November 29

Earlier today, Governor Murphy announced that there were 5,673 new positive cases and an additional 48 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 356,662 confirmed cases, and 15,419 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at ...

Covid-19 Update: Week of November 16

Covid cases in the Garden State continue to rise with Governor Murphy announcing today 3,635 new cases for a total of 297,370 cases to date, 23 new confirmed deaths for a total of 14,900 confirmed deaths to date, and the rate of transmission at 1.4%. Gove...

Covid-19 Update: Week of November 2

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 2,199 new positive cases and an additional 13 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 249,380 confirmed cases, and 14,616 confirmed deaths. The ...

COVID-19 Update: Week of October 26, 2020

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 2,089 new positive cases and an additional 7 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 236,523 confirmed cases, and 14,546 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.26, and ...

Week of September 6: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 518 new positive cases and an additional nine confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 195,888 confirmed cases and 14,234 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.08. The ...

Week of August 10: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 585 new positive cases and an additional 10 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 187,164 confirmed cases, and 14,064 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,839 probable deaths assoc...

Week of August 2: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 384 new positive cases and an additional 12 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 184,061 confirmed cases, and 14,007 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,853 probable deaths assoc...

Week of July 24: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 699 new positive cases and an additional 10 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 181,660 confirmed cases, and 13,923 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,875 probable deaths assoc...

COVID-19 Rundown: Week of July 20

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 488 new positive results and an additional 36 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 178,345 confirmed cases, and 13,845 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,920 probable deaths ass...

Week of July 13: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 202 new positive results and an additional 20 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 176,551 confirmed cases, and 13,710 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,974 probable deaths ass...

Week of June 29, 2020 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday the Governor announced that there were 423 new positive results and 45 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19 since the day before. To date, there have been 171,928 confirmed cases, and 13,224 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,854 probable de...

Week of June 22, 2020 COVID-19 Update

On Thursday, the Governor announced that there were 406 new positive results and 26 deaths for COVID-19 since the day before. The Governor also announced that they identified an additional 1,854 probable deaths. These are fatalities in which no test was c...

Week of June 15, 2020 COVID-19 Update

On Thursday, the Governor announced that there were 442 additional positive results since yesterday and 38 deaths. That brings the statewide totals to 168,107 positive results and 12,800 COVID-19 related deaths. Yesterday, 73 people were admitted to the h...

Week of June 8, 2020 Covid-19 Update

Yesterday marked the 100th day since the first identified case of COVID-19 in New Jersey. Since that day, there have been 165,816 lab-confirmed cases of the virus in New Jersey, and 12,443 confirmed deaths. On that 100th day, Governor Murphy reported 539 ...

Week of June 1, 2020 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor reported an additional 603 positive lab test results for COVID-19, for a statewide total of 162,530. He also reported an additional 92 deaths attributed to the virus, for a statewide total of 11,970. Of particular significance was ...

Week of May 25: COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor reported an additional 1,261 positive lab test results for COVID-19, for a statewide total of 157,815.  He also reported an additional 66 deaths attributed to the virus, for a statewide total of 11,401.

Also, the Governor s...

Week of May 18: COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor announced that an additional 1,304 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 151,472. He also announced another 98 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 10,843.New hospitalizations continue a d...

Week of May 3: COVID-19 Report

Earlier this week Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 238 easing certain restrictions on indoor dining, bar seating, outdoor gatherings, and more. The Governor also announced that, effective May 19, New Jersey will remove COVID-19 capacity restrictions...

U.S. Treasury Provides Guidance on Coronavirus State and Local Recovery Funds

Yesterday, the U.S. Treasury adopted implementation rules for the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund and the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund established under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).Please see the League’s recent blog post that goe...

Week of April 26: COVID-19 Weekly Update

Earlier this week, Governor Murphy announced that New Jersey will be easing restrictions on outdoor gatherings and indoor catered events. Earlier this week, Governor Murphy announced that New Jersey will be easing restrictions on outdoor gatherings and in...

Week of April 19: COVID-19 Update

This week COVID-19 continues to focus on vaccinations, gatherings, and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.COVID-19 Data for April 22, 2021

• New Confirmed Cases – 2,895
• New Probable Cases – 527
• Rate of Transmission .093
• New Lab-Confirmed Deaths 31
• Hospital-Repor...

Week of April 12:COVID-19 Weekly Update

This week New Jersey paused the administering of the J&J COVID-19 vaccine upon the recommendation, of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration pending further investigation into six reported incidences of sev...

Week of April 5, 2021: COVID-19 Update

The Governor this week announced that effective April 19 all New Jersey residents over the age of 16 will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and noted that with the more than 750 vaccination sites in New Jersey 98.7% of residents live within five m...

Week of March 29 COVID-19 Update

The Governor this week announced increased outdoor gathering limits and a new COVID-19 vaccine appointment finder. He also discussed the latest modeling from the Department of Health.In regards to the Department of Health modeling, the Governor highlighte...

American Rescue Plan Update

President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan into law on March 11. The U.S. Treasury Department has 60 days to promulgate rules for the program and send federal aid directly to entitlement cities and to the state to be sent, unencumbered, to the mu...

Week of March 22: COVID-19 Update

Today the Governor announced an expansion of those eligible for the vaccine along with a partnership with the Biden Administration to open a pilot FEMA Community Vaccination Center located in Newark. Earlier this week the Governor noted that working with ...

Week of March 15: COVID-19 Weekly Update

This week the Governor noted that Thursday marked one year since the closure of schools and the transition to all-remote learning. During his remarks the Governor stated that, “Come September, it is our complete expectation that every school will be open,...

Week of March 8: COVID Update

March 10 was the one-year anniversary of New Jersey’s first COVID-19 confirmed death. Governor Phil Murphy noted that “the toll of this virus has been staggering. It exceeds the numbers of New Jerseyans lost in any war. In one year, we have lost an averag...

COVID-19 Weekly Update: Week of March 1

This week in Trenton on the COVID-19 front: March 4 marked the one-year anniversary of the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in New Jersey. During his March 3, COVID briefing Governor Phil Murphy reviewed the steps New Jersey has taken in response. In addi...

Week of Feb. 22: COVID-19 Weekly Update

This week in Trenton on the COVID-19 front: Governor Phil Murphy issued an Executive Order increasing capacities for religious services, as well as sporting and entertainment events and announced New Jersey should anticipate approximately 70,000 of the Jo...

House Oversight and Reform Passes Reconciliation Bill that Includes State and Local Government Aid

Last Friday, after a series of amendments were offered, including ones designed to limit and hinder state and local aid distribution, and were defeated, the House Oversight and Reform Committee reported favorably the state and local government ai...

Senators Menendez & Booker Discuss American Rescue Plan

On Thursday, League President, Clinton Town Mayor Janice Kovach, and League staff joined more than 200 elected officials discussed the American Rescue Plan with U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker on a virtual call. The Senators gave an overview of...

Week of February 15: COVID-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton: Governor Phil Murphy along with Acting Commissioner of Education Angelica Allen-McMillan released a plan on the learning gap. Vaccination deliveries have been delayed due to weather but it is antic...

Week of February 8: COVID-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to focus on vaccinations but also included an Executive Order on attendance at youth sporting events, information on upcoming elections, and the reopening of EDA’s applications for small and micro business ...

Week of February 1: Covid-19 Update

This week Governor Phil Murphy issued an Executive Order expanding indoor dining and limiting the 10 p.m. curfew on closings of restaurants. The Governor announced that Johnson and Johnson has submitted an application for emergency use authorization from ...

Week of January 24: Covid-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to center on vaccinations, with the toll-free vaccination hotline going live and all of the mega-sites up and running. The Governor issued an Executive Order permitting both electronic and in-person collect...

President Biden Releases COVID-19 Action Plan and Takes Related Executive Action

On Thursday, Jan. 21, President Joe Biden released the “National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness” that outlines seven specific goals to combat the pandemic: 

• Goal 1: Restore trust with the American people
• Goal 2: Mount ...

Week of January 18: COVID-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to center on vaccinations.  U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker announced today that New Jersey’s Department of Health will receive $591 million in federal funding for th...

COVID-19 Update: Week of January 4

Today, Governor Murphy announced that there were 5,791 new positive cases and an additional 112 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 516,608 confirmed cases, and 17,697 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is 1.02. Sinc...

U.S. Department of Treasury Announces Emergency Rental Assistance Program

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has published information for state and local governments about the new $25 billion Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program that was enacted as part of the most recent COVID-19 emergency relief package. In general, fu...

Larger Stimulus Checks Unlikely

As of Thursday morning, Senate Majority Leader McConnell has not posted the CASH Act for a Senate vote. This legislation would provide an additional $1,400 stimulus check to the previously authorized $600 for a total of $2,000. The CASH Act passed the Hou...

President Signs Omnibus Funding and COVID-19 Relief Legislation

Despite his previous requests that Congress amend the Omnibus Spending and COVID-19 Relief Bill to increase stimulus payments from $600 to $2,000, President Trump signed the bill on Sunday night with no changes, after many features of the CARES A...

FEMA Releases $40 Million in Additional Funds for 2020 Mitigation Grants

Each year, FEMA identifies and makes available additional funds from previous grant cycles from projects that were completed under budget or were not implemented. This year, following the release of the fiscal year 2020 Notice of Funding Opportunity for t...

COVID Relief & Omnibus Bill Passed

Along with the passage of an omnibus bill to fund the government through September, Congress overwhelmingly passed a COVID-19 relief bill late Monday night. As previously reported, direct funding for state and local governments was not included in this pa...

Week of December 21 COVID-19 Update

Today, Governor Murphy announced that there were 4,871 new positive cases and an additional 80 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 449,842 confirmed cases, and 16,599 confirmed deaths. The...

Federal Update: No Direct State & Local Government Funding

Congressional Leadership announced an agreement on a COVID-19 relief package, which is expected to be voted on Monday. Excluded from that agreement is direct funding for state and local governments.The deadline to utilize existing CARES funding will be ex...

Week of December 14: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 3,975 new positive cases and an additional 44 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 423,226 confirmed cases and 16,216 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1...

State and Local Aid Excluded From COVID Relief Legislation

Congress continues to negotiate the details of a $900 billion COVID relief package, which will be attached to the $1.4 trillion omnibus spending package that funds the government through September. The current funding bill expires at midnight tonight and ...

Covid-19 Update: Week of December 6

Governor Murphy today announced that there were 3,821 new positive cases and an additional 55 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 390,256 confirmed cases, and 15,794 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.14. The...

Treasury OIG Coronavirus Relief Fund FAQs

Last week, the Department of Treasury Office of Inspector General (OIG) released an update to the Coronavirus Relief Fund “Frequently Asked Questions Related to Reporting and Recordkeeping.” Part of the document lays out the process fo...

Covid-19 Update: Week of November 29

Earlier today, Governor Murphy announced that there were 5,673 new positive cases and an additional 48 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 356,662 confirmed cases, and 15,419 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at ...

Covid-19 Update: Week of November 16

Covid cases in the Garden State continue to rise with Governor Murphy announcing today 3,635 new cases for a total of 297,370 cases to date, 23 new confirmed deaths for a total of 14,900 confirmed deaths to date, and the rate of transmission at 1.4%. Gove...

Covid-19 Update: Week of November 2

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 2,199 new positive cases and an additional 13 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 249,380 confirmed cases, and 14,616 confirmed deaths. The ...

COVID-19 Update: Week of October 26, 2020

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 2,089 new positive cases and an additional 7 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 236,523 confirmed cases, and 14,546 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.26, and ...

US Conference of Mayors Partnering with National Restaurant Association for Webinar

The National Restaurant Association is partnering with the US Conference of Mayors to host a webinar, “What Will Your City Be Like Without Restaurants?” They will discuss the challenges that the restaurant industry is facing and what mayors can d...

Comments Sought on Emergency Remote Meeting Regulations

As we have previously reported, the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) issued emergency regulations regarding emergency remote meeting protocols for local public bodies. The DCA is also taking action to make these emergency regulations permanent and wi...

Local Government Emergency Fund Grant Application Now Available

Counties and municipalities excluded from the federal government’s direct Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) allocation plan, as well as those counties and municipalities that are currently the most impacted in comparison to their available resources, are elig...

COVID-19 Update: Week of October 12, 2020

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 976 new positive cases and an additional 5 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 217,804 confirmed cases, and 14,413 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.18.&nb...

NJ Delegation Challenges FEMA Sanitation/PPE Policy Change

Bipartisan Members of New Jersey’s Congressional Delegation are urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to reverse a new policy stipulating the agency will no longer provide emergency reimbursement to school systems and local gover...

Bipartisant Problem Solvers Look to Break Coronavirus Logjam

On Tuesday, the U.S. House of Representatives’ bi-partisan Problem Solvers Caucus (PSC) released the March to Common Ground, a framework for COVID relief designed to reignite negotiations on a critically important Coronavirus Relief bill.The 50-...

Governor Takes Action on Bills

Earlier this week, Governor Phil Murphy signed two bills of interest into law – S-349 (P.L. 2020, c.80), which requires developers to offer electric vehicle charging stations as an option in certain new home construction, and S-2380 (P.L. 2020, ...

NLC Seeks Clarity on Permitted CRF Funding Uses

The March CARES Act provided direct Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) assistance to the State of New Jersey and the State’s nine most populous counties. The law allowed those direct recipients to ‘sub-allocate’ some or all of tho...

No Congressional Coronavirus Relief Forthcoming

Yesterday, the U.S. Senate failed to advance a scaled-down Coronavirus Relief measure when a procedural motion to invoke closure was defeated on party lines.The $500 billion proposal would have provided zero support for local and state governments. It wou...

Week of September 6: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 518 new positive cases and an additional nine confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 195,888 confirmed cases and 14,234 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.08. The ...

Governor Signs Coronavirus Relief Bonds Legislation

On Monday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-3971/S-2475, reflecting both the initial intent of the legislation and his recommended changes made through a previous conditional veto. This new law will allow municipalities and counties to issue a special em...

Local Aid Crucial for Economic Recovery

In a recent article, originally appearing in the August 13 ‘Bond Buyer,’ Mark Zandi, Chief Economist for Moody’s Analytics, predicts a ‘double-dip’ recession for the U.S. economy if Congress and t...

FEMA Announces Funding for Hazard Mitigation Grants

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has posted funding notices for two hazard mitigation grant programs for more than $660 million. The two grant programs, the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant and the Building Resilient Infrastructure an...

Week of August 10: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 585 new positive cases and an additional 10 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 187,164 confirmed cases, and 14,064 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,839 probable deaths assoc...

NJ Supreme Court Rules COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act Constitutional

The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that the State’s plan to bond for up to $9.9 billion to deal with revenue shortfalls brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic is constitutional, provided certain restrictions are followed.The case was brou...

President Trump Takes Steps to Address COVID-19 Relief

On Saturday, President Trump signed an Executive Order and three presidential memorandums after talks between the Administration and Democratic leaders on a new COVID-19 relief package broke down. The Democratic leaders are pushing for the HEROES Act ($3 ...

Week of August 2: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 384 new positive cases and an additional 12 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 184,061 confirmed cases, and 14,007 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,853 probable deaths assoc...

Tropical Storm Isaias Update from Board of Public Utilities (BPU)

As of 1:00 p.m. on Friday approximately 300,000 utility customers remain without power statewide, down from a peak of 1.4 million.The BPU understands that being without power is extremely frustrating and is in constant contact with all utilities to ensure...

Governor Conditionally Vetoes CRB Bill

On July 31 Governor Murphy issued a conditional veto for A-3971, which authorizes the issuance of "coronavirus relief bonds" (CRBs) by municipalities and counties. In the conditional veto language the Governor acknowledge the need for local gove...

DLGS Issues LFN on Enery Tax Receipt & CMPTRA Payment Program

The Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2020-17 summarizing the Energy Tax Receipt and CMPTRA payment program for CY 2020 and SFY 2020 extension budgets. The Energy Tax Receipt and CMPTRA August 1 installment payment was 45% ...

Local Aid Among Many Issues Delaying Federal Help

Negotiations over Washington’s next response to the COVID-19 continue, with no end in sight, as Congressional Leaders meet with the White House bargaining team. Meanwhile, and also with no end in sight, municipalities across the Nation, and all ...

COVID-19 Research Volunteers Needed

Please let your citizens know about these heroic service opportunities.First, anyone who has recovered from the virus, who has been symptom-free for at least 14 days, and who is otherwise able to donate blood, could be eligible to save lives by donating t...

Governor Issues Four New COVID-19 Related EOs

Since our last update, Governor Murphy issued four new COVID-19 related executive orders: Executive Order 170, which extends certain statutory deadlines across state government; Executive Order 171 which extends the Public Health Emergency that was declar...

Storm Update from NJBPU

As of 2 pm on Wednesday, approximately 908,000 utility customers remain without power statewide, down from a peak of 1.4 million yesterday. More than 2,000 out of state crews are helping our utilities restore electricity. This includes crews from Canada, ...

Week of July 24: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 699 new positive cases and an additional 10 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 181,660 confirmed cases, and 13,923 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,875 probable deaths assoc...

New Federal COVID Relief Bill Offers No Relief for New Jersey Municipalities

Yesterday in Washington, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell unveiled a new COVID Relief bill. The product of negotiations within the Senate Republican caucus, and between it and the White House, the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protecti...

Coronavirus Relief Bond Legislation Advances, Before Senate

Today the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee released S-2475/A-3971, which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” (CRB) by municipalities and counties. The legislation permits municipalities to issue bonds for th...

Portal Bridge Replacement Project Progress

On Monday, NJ Transit’s Board of Directors approved a project development agreement with Amtrak, moving the Portal Bridge replacement project one step closer to a start. The project, which is expected to cost $1.8 billion, is now scheduled to be...

COVID-19 Rundown: Week of July 20

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 488 new positive results and an additional 36 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 178,345 confirmed cases, and 13,845 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,920 probable deaths ass...

Governor Murphy Announces Main Street Commercial Corridors Relief

Yesterday, Governor Murphy announced a new relief program for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Small Business Lease – Emergency Assistance Program (SBL-EAGP) will allow businesses in 64 eligible municipalities&...

Negotiations Continue on the Second Federal Coronavirus Relief Package

Efforts in Washington continued this week as Federal legislators attempt to negotiate a second round of pandemic relief aid. While many were hopeful to have a Senate bill proposal released before the end of this week, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnel...

Week of July 13: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 202 new positive results and an additional 20 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 176,551 confirmed cases, and 13,710 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,974 probable deaths ass...

Murphy Ok's COVID-19 Borrowing Bill

Yesterday, both the Assembly, by a 46-26 vote, and the Senate, by a 22-15 vote, passed the amended State COVID-19 Borrowing bill. Late yesterday Governor Murphy signed it into law. P.L. 2020, c. 60 authorizes the borrowing of up to $9.9 billion in State g...

Local Aid to be Debated as Congress Reconvenes

On Monday, Congress will return to Washington. Press reports indicate that leaders in both Houses and in both political parties will seek bipartisan agreement on a new legislative response to the economic impact of the Coronavirus.

As the next COVID respon...

CARES Act CRF Guidance Permits use of Funds for TANs Costs

The U.S. Treasury has been using FAQs to expand permissible uses of Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) monies, distributed pursuant to the CARES Act. You can view the latest (July 8) at Treasury CRF FAQs.

On page 7, that guidance states (emphasis added):

&ls...

Week of June 29, 2020 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday the Governor announced that there were 423 new positive results and 45 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19 since the day before. To date, there have been 171,928 confirmed cases, and 13,224 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,854 probable de...

Virtual Press Conference Recording Available

Week of June 22, 2020 COVID-19 Update

On Thursday, the Governor announced that there were 406 new positive results and 26 deaths for COVID-19 since the day before. The Governor also announced that they identified an additional 1,854 probable deaths. These are fatalities in which no test was c...

Bridge Budget Bill Introduced

Because of the extension of the State’s current Fiscal Year for an additional three months, the Legislature must pass and the Governor sign a Supplemental Appropriations bill by midnight, June 30. On Thursday, June 24, Assemblywoman Eliana Pinto...

New Law Provides Local Units with Flexibility to Waive Penalties on Overdue Sewer or Water Charges

Last Friday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-4126 (now, P.L.2020, c.39), which gives municipalities, counties, and utility authorities the ability to waive interest and lien enforcement for certain delinquent water and sewer utility payments during emer...

DCA Announces COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Enrollment Period

Department of Community Affair’s COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program (CVERAP) will provide temporary rental assistance to low and moderate-income households that have had a substantial reduction in income or became unemployed due to the...

Time's Running Out for Small Business help

The Payroll Protection Program (PPP), a key component of the Federal CARES Act, will end on June 30. Please let all of your struggling small businesses know that they can apply for forgivable PPP loans, through the Small Business Administration (SBA). But...

Feds Allow State & Counties Flexibility in CARES Act Aid

Yesterday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury again updated its Coronavirus Relief Fund Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) web page. With this update, Treasury is again giving states and qualifying local governments greater flexibility in the use of Coron...

NLC to Host Northeast & Mid-Atlantic Issues Update

Join our federal partner the National League of Cities for timely information via a webinar focused on issues affecting the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region.

The last few weeks have been turbulent and challenging for local leaders. From fighting a global ...

Week of June 15, 2020 COVID-19 Update

On Thursday, the Governor announced that there were 442 additional positive results since yesterday and 38 deaths. That brings the statewide totals to 168,107 positive results and 12,800 COVID-19 related deaths. Yesterday, 73 people were admitted to the h...

150 Economists Call For State & Local Funding in Next Package

A letter urging more Congressional action in response to the economic impact of the pandemic calls for "new assistance to states and localities" as part of new legislation. "An adequate response must be large, commensurate with the...

Share the Message: MunisAreEssential

The League has launched the MunisAreEssential campaign in response to budget shortfalls local governments are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is encouraging local officials to contact their state and federal legislators to support ...

Week of June 8, 2020 Covid-19 Update

Yesterday marked the 100th day since the first identified case of COVID-19 in New Jersey. Since that day, there have been 165,816 lab-confirmed cases of the virus in New Jersey, and 12,443 confirmed deaths. On that 100th day, Governor Murphy reported 539 ...

Please Take Action: Update State Bonding Proposal and Local COVID Bond Legislation

Last week, the State Assembly approved A-4175, the “New Jersey COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act,’’ by a vote of 51-28. This bill authorizes the issuance of $5 billion in State general obligation bonds to be used in response to the...

Week of June 1, 2020 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor reported an additional 603 positive lab test results for COVID-19, for a statewide total of 162,530. He also reported an additional 92 deaths attributed to the virus, for a statewide total of 11,970. Of particular significance was ...

COVID Bond Bill Clears NJ Assembly; NJLM Committee Set to Review Legislation

Yesterday, the State Assembly approved A-4175, the “New Jersey COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act,’’ by a vote of 51-28. This bill authorizes the issuance of $5 billion in State general obligation bonds to be used in respon...

Congress Looks to INVEST in America's Infrastructure

We have received a summary of a soon-to-be-introduced bill – the Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation (INVEST) in America Act. Among other provisions, the bill would dedicate $19 billion, over five years, in L...

Gov. Executive Order Greenlights Outdoor Dining & In-Person Non-Essential Retail

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 150 permitting outdoor dining and in-person non-essential retail effective Monday, June 15 at 6:00 a.m.

Outdoor Dining

In-person service at outdoor areas for restaurants, cafeterias, dining establishments, an...

ABC Issues Guidance on New Outdoor Dining Permits

The Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has created a new permit for licensed premises to expand their premises to allow for reasonable seating capacity while observing social distancing guidelines. The COVID-19 Expansion Permit is available to a...

Surgeon General Urges Continued Precautions

The White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs has been conducting weekly briefings on the Federal government’s COVID response and recovery efforts. League staff has been monitoring the weekly calls for state, local, and tribal leaders. Thi...

Week of May 25: COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor reported an additional 1,261 positive lab test results for COVID-19, for a statewide total of 157,815.  He also reported an additional 66 deaths attributed to the virus, for a statewide total of 11,401.

Also, the Governor s...

Legislature Focuses on State Three-Month Budget Plan

Yesterday in Trenton, the Assembly Budget Committee heard testimony from the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services’ Budget and Finance Officer, Frank Haines, and State Treasurer, Elizabeth Maher Muoio, regarding Governor Murphy’s ...

Gov. Signs Legislation Setting 2020 Tax Appeal Date

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed into law A-4157, which extends the statutory deadline to file a property tax appeal from May 1, 2020 to July 1, 2020 and provides the County Board of Taxation until September 30, 2020 to render a decision on a tax...

ACT NOW Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program Applications Due May 29

This Friday, May 29 is the deadline to apply for the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding (CESF) Program for state and local municipalities identified as eligible for funding under the 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (J...

MEL Safety Institute CV-19 Resources

The MEL Safety Director’s office has created a central repository on the NJ MEL website for updated COVID-19 information specific to municipal operations, including several bulletins addressing specific subject areas during the COVID-19 pandemic...

Week of May 18: COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor announced that an additional 1,304 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 151,472. He also announced another 98 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 10,843.New hospitalizations continue a d...

State Budget Update

Today State Treasurer Liz Muoio issued a report on the fiscal condition of the state budget. The report indicates that the State can expect an up-to $10 billion shortfall between now and June 2021. The data reflects a shortfall of $2.75 billion through th...

DEP Launches "Mask Up!" Campaign

Today, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced the launch of their “Mask Up!” campaign, encouraging residents and visitors to wear face coverings in state parks, beaches and public spaces. 

The campaign inclu...

Bipartisan Local & State COVID Assistance Bills Introduced in Both Houses of Congress

On Monday, Senator Bob Menendez introduced in the Upper House S.3752, the State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (SMART) bill. Yesterday, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill introduced its companion, H.R. 6954, in the House.

We thank Senator Menendez...

Representative Sherrill to Sponsor House SMART Companion

New Jersey Representative Mikie Sherrill, along with New York’s Peter King, announced that they will introduce a bipartisan House companion to S.3752, Senator Menendez’s bipartisan State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (S...

Your Action Needed on COVID-19 Bonding

On Thursday the Assembly passed by a vote of 57-20 A-3971 which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” by municipalities and counties. Specifically, A-3971 permits municipalities to issue bonds for the loss of revenue an...

Gov. Signs States of Emergency Law Addressing Timeframes & Deadlines

On May 15 Governor Murphy signed A-3969/S-2392 into law. P.L. 2020, c. 34 provides for local government flexibility with regard to various timeframes, deadlines, and other statutory requirements in order to help them continue to function and meet their ob...

Senator Menedez to Introduce Municipal Aid Bill

Sometime this week, New Jersey’s senior Senator Bob Menendez and Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., will formally introduce legislation that could help all New Jersey local governments. It would create a $500 billion fund to help states and a...

House Passes HEROES Bill with Local Aid Provision

On Friday night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6800–the HEROES Act. The vote, largely along party lines, was 203-199. Though declared ‘dead on arrival’ in the Senate by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, this ac...

U.S. Treasury Provides Guidance on Coronavirus State and Local Recovery Funds

Yesterday, the U.S. Treasury adopted implementation rules for the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund and the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund established under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).Please see the League’s recent blog pos...

Shuttered Venue Operator Grants

The American Rescue Plan includes funding for shuttered entertainment venues. The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program appropriates over $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues. The application portal started accepting applications on April 24...

President Biden Announces American Family Plan

Wednesday evening, during a socially-distanced address before Congress, President Joe Biden proposed a 10-year, $1.8 trillion American Family Plan which includes $1 trillion in new spending and investments and $800 billion in tax cuts and tax credits.For ...

American Rescue Plan – Preparation for Municipalities that Will Receive Direct Payments

This week, the U.S. Treasury sent a directive for entities with a population above 50,000 that are to receive direct payments of funds stating they should prepare information including a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and an active registra...

Urge Congress to Restore Full SALT Deductibility, Congressional SALT Caucus Established

This week, New Jersey congressional members Bill Pascrell (D-9), Josh Gottheimer (D-5), Mikie Sherrill (D-11), and Tom Malinowski (D-7) joined with seven other congressional members from New York and California to establish the bipartisan Congressional SA...

The House Announces Federal Community Projects Process

The House Appropriations Chair Rep. Rosa DeLauro announced that they will be accepting Members of Congress’ requests for Community Project Funding in appropriations bills for the upcoming 2022 fiscal year. This announcement is ...

Census Announces Delay in Apportionment Data to States

The U.S. Census Bureau recently announced that redistricting data to all states will be delivered by September 30, 2021. This is a six-month delay from the announced date of March 31, 2021 to deliver the data. The Census Bureau will deliver information al...

American Rescue Plan Update

President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan into law on March 11. The U.S. Treasury Department has 60 days to promulgate rules for the program and send federal aid directly to entitlement cities and to the state to be sent, unencumbered, to the mu...

Legislative Preview: Federal Front Week of March 15

This week, the House will consider H.R. 1620, the Violence Against Women Act and H.J. Res. 17, to remove the deadline for ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment.Additionally, the House will consider two bills to address the immigration system, includi...

CISA Issues Emergency Directive

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) partners have observed active exploitation of vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange on-premises products. Please review CISA issued ED 21-02 for Microsoft Exchange on-premises products to update ...

EPA Announces Extension of the Revised Lead and Copper Rule (LCR)

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing that it is extending the effective date of the Revised Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) to seek further public input, particularly from communities that are most at risk of exposure to lead in drinkin...

USDA Announces Extension for Summer Meals Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the nationwide extension of several waivers that allow children to continue to receive free nutritious meals this summer when schools are out of session. They are available now through September 30, ...

American Rescue Plan Signed Into Law

President Joe Biden signed the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan into law on Thursday, which includes $350 billion funding for state and local governments.New Jersey is expected to receive $9.4 billion in federal aid. $6.4 billion for the state and $2.9 ...

Senators Menendez & Booker Discuss American Rescue Plan

On Thursday, League President, Clinton Town Mayor Janice Kovach, and League staff joined more than 200 elected officials discussed the American Rescue Plan with U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker on a virtual call. The Senators gave an overview of...

House Oversight and Reform Passes Reconciliation Bill that Includes State and Local Government Aid

Last Friday, after a series of amendments were offered, including ones designed to limit and hinder state and local aid distribution, and were defeated, the House Oversight and Reform Committee reported favorably the state and local government ai...

House Oversight and Reform Committee Holds Reconciliation Hearing Aid on State and Local Government

The House Oversight and Reform Committee met Feb. 12 to consider details on the state and local government aid section under the Covid-19 emergency aid reconciliation package. While this is a fluid situation and provisions can change, this information is ...

CALL TO ACTION: Support Congressman Pascrell’s Legislation to Eliminate Cap on SALT Deduction

This week, New Jersey Congressman Bill Pascrell introduced H.R. 946, the Stop the Attack on Local Taxpayers (SALT) Act, which eliminates the $10,000 cap and fully restores the deduction for state and local taxes. The measure also eliminates the cap retroa...

Congressman Pascrell Introduces SALT Cap Elimination

New Jersey Congressman Bill Pascrell introduced H.R. 946, the Stop the Attack on Local Taxpayers (SALT) Act, which eliminates the $10,000 cap on property tax deduction. The measure also eliminates the cap retroactively.The measure is co-sponsored by New J...

Congressional Activity on SALT Deduction

The entire New Jersey House delegation sent a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer requesting the repeal of the State and Local Tax (SALT) Deduction cap. They stated that:

“the SALT Deduction has historically streng...

President Biden Issued Various Executive Orders

On his first day in office, President Joe Biden signed a total of 17 executive orders on a variety of issues including COVID-19 federal response, environmental, homeland security, immigration, a foreclosure moratorium, and civil rights issues. You can vie...

President Biden Releases COVID-19 Action Plan and Takes Related Executive Action

On Thursday, Jan. 21, President Joe Biden released the “National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness” that outlines seven specific goals to combat the pandemic: 

• Goal 1: Restore trust with the American people
• Goal 2: Mount ...

U.S. Department of Treasury Announces Emergency Rental Assistance Program

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has published information for state and local governments about the new $25 billion Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program that was enacted as part of the most recent COVID-19 emergency relief package. In general, fu...

Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC) Announces Activities

On Wednesday, January 20, 2021, President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris will be sworn in as the next President and Vice President of the United States. The scaled-back inaugural activities will include a National Day of Service, COVID-19 Mem...

Larger Stimulus Checks Unlikely

As of Thursday morning, Senate Majority Leader McConnell has not posted the CASH Act for a Senate vote. This legislation would provide an additional $1,400 stimulus check to the previously authorized $600 for a total of $2,000. The CASH Act passed the Hou...

State and Local Aid Excluded From COVID Relief Legislation

Congress continues to negotiate the details of a $900 billion COVID relief package, which will be attached to the $1.4 trillion omnibus spending package that funds the government through September. The current funding bill expires at midnight tonight and ...

Spending Updates

This week, the House and Senate passed a one-week extension of the Continuing Resolution. This gives negotiators one additional week to finalize the details of a spending plan by December 18.Since last week, momentum on a bipartisan COVID-19 funding agree...

Federal Election Rumor vs. Reality Page Posted

To provide citizens with factual information, as they vote and await election results, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is continuously posting updates on its 2020 Election Security Ru...

Hopes for Federal COVID Aid Package Dim ... Again

On Wednesday, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, the administration’s point person on COVID relief, stated, “At this point getting something done before the election and executing on that would be difficult, just given where we are in the level of details....

Federal COVID Relief Bill Adds Local Governments

House Democrats on Monday unveiled a scaled-back $2.2 trillion coronavirus relief package, in the hope of kick-starting negotiations for a bipartisan deal before the elections.This pared-down HEROES Act — $1.2 trillion less than the original bil...

NJ Delegation Challenges FEMA Sanitation/PPE Policy Change

Bipartisan Members of New Jersey’s Congressional Delegation are urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to reverse a new policy stipulating the agency will no longer provide emergency reimbursement to school systems and local gover...

Bipartisan Problem Solvers Look to Break Coronavirus Logjam

On Tuesday, the U.S. House of Representatives’ bi-partisan Problem Solvers Caucus (PSC) released the March to Common Ground, a framework for COVID relief designed to reignite negotiations on a critically important Coronavirus Relief bill.The 50-member Pro...

Call to Action: Transportation Programs Expire Sept. 30

On September 30, the federal surface transportation law, the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, expires and immediate Congressional action is needed to keep transportation projects moving across the U.S.America’s trans...

NLC Seeks Clarity on Permitted CRF Funding Uses

The March CARES Act provided direct Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) assistance to the State of New Jersey and the State’s nine most populous counties. The law allowed those direct recipients to ‘sub-allocate’ some or all of tho...

No Congressional Coronavirus Relief Forthcoming

Yesterday, the U.S. Senate failed to advance a scaled-down Coronavirus Relief measure when a procedural motion to invoke closure was defeated on party lines.The $500 billion proposal would have provided zero support for local and state governments. It wou...

Federal Election Risk Profile Tool Released

On Wednesday, the Federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released the Election Risk Profile Tool, a user-friendly assessment tool to equip election officials and federal agencies in prioritizing and managing cybersecurity risks to...

Local Aid Crucial for Economic Recovery

In a recent article, originally appearing in the August 13 ‘Bond Buyer,’ Mark Zandi, Chief Economist for Moody’s Analytics, predicts a ‘double-dip’ recession for the U.S. economy if Congress and t...

FEMA Announces Funding for Hazard Mitigation Grants

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has posted funding notices for two hazard mitigation grant programs for more than $660 million. The two grant programs, the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant and the Building Resilient Infrastructure an...

9th Circuit Mostly Upholds FCC Order Preempting Local Authority Over 5G Deployment

On Wednesday, the Ninth Circuit largely upheld a series of Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Orders aimed at expediting the deployment of small cell and 5G technology at the expense of local control and autonomy. Although many provisions of the Order...

Time is Running Out for the 2020 Census

This week, the U.S. Census Bureau began its full, nationwide follow up, with households that have not yet responded to the 2020 Census. Up to 500,000 census takers across the country will go door to door to assist people in responding to the 2020 Census. ...

President’s Supplemental Unemployment Compensation Plan Poses Problems

As reported in our Monday Daily Update, President Trump took action last weekend, to address a few aspects of the economic crisis, caused by the Coronavirus. His Memorandum on Authorizing the Other Needs Assistance Program for Major Disaster Declarations ...

President Trump Takes Steps to Address COVID-19 Relief

On Saturday, President Trump signed an Executive Order and three presidential memorandums after talks between the Administration and Democratic leaders on a new COVID-19 relief package broke down. The Democratic leaders are pushing for the HEROES Act ($3 ...

Census Bureau Moves to Cut Data Collection Phase Short

Late last week, the U.S. Census Bureau released information on a number of steps being taken to shorten the time for field data collection, to the end of September, and to provide reapportionment data to the Congress by the end of the year. Until this ann...

Local Aid Among Many Issues Delaying Federal Help

Negotiations over Washington’s next response to the COVID-19 continue, with no end in sight, as Congressional Leaders meet with the White House bargaining team. Meanwhile, and also with no end in sight, municipalities across the Nation, and all ...

New Federal COVID Relief Bill Offers No Relief for New Jersey Municipalities

Yesterday in Washington, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell unveiled a new COVID Relief bill. The product of negotiations within the Senate Republican caucus, and between it and the White House, the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protecti...

Portal Bridge Replacement Project Progress

On Monday, NJ Transit’s Board of Directors approved a project development agreement with Amtrak, moving the Portal Bridge replacement project one step closer to a start. The project, which is expected to cost $1.8 billion, is now scheduled to be...

Negotiations Continue on the Second Federal Coronavirus Relief Package

Efforts in Washington continued this week as Federal legislators attempt to negotiate a second round of pandemic relief aid. While many were hopeful to have a Senate bill proposal released before the end of this week, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnel...

CARES Act CRF Guidance Permits use of Funds for TANs Costs

The U.S. Treasury has been using FAQs to expand permissible uses of Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) monies, distributed pursuant to the CARES Act. You can view the latest (July 8) at Treasury CRF FAQs.

On page 7, that guidance states (emphasis added):

&ls...

Local Aid to be Debated as Congress Reconvenes

On Monday, Congress will return to Washington. Press reports indicate that leaders in both Houses and in both political parties will seek bipartisan agreement on a new legislative response to the economic impact of the Coronavirus.

As the next COVID respon...

Feds Allow State & Counties Flexibility in CARES Act Aid

Yesterday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury again updated its Coronavirus Relief Fund Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) web page. With this update, Treasury is again giving states and qualifying local governments greater flexibility in the use...

NLC to Host Northeast & Mid-Atlantic Issues Update

Join our federal partner the National League of Cities for timely information via a webinar focused on issues affecting the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region.

The last few weeks have been turbulent and challenging for local leaders. From fighting a global ...

House Committee Can Increase Local Share of Transportation Funding

On Wednesday, the House Transportation Committee began consideration of their transportation reauthorization proposal - "Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation in America" (INVEST in America) Act. For further in...

150 Economists Call For State & Local Funding in Next Package

A letter urging more Congressional action in response to the economic impact of the pandemic calls for "new assistance to states and localities" as part of new legislation. "An adequate response must be large, commensurate with the...

Sen. Menendez, Mayor Passanante Join Colleagues on National Briefing

Our partners in Washington, the National League of Cities (NLC) hosted a ‘Protecting and Growing America’s Economic Recovery’ virtual Hill briefing. This is a part of NLC’s ‘Cities Are Essential’...

FCC Approves Order to Streamline Deploymnet of 5G Equipment onto Macro Towers

Earlier this week the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC), in a 3-2 vote, adopted a Declaratory Ruling clarifying the FCC’s 2014 rules regarding the so-called “streamlined review” of deployment of 5G w...

Congress Looks to INVEST in America's Infrastructure

We have received a summary of a soon-to-be-introduced bill – the Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation (INVEST) in America Act. Among other provisions, the bill would dedicate $19 billion, over five years, in L...

Surgeon General Urges Continued Precautions

The White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs has been conducting weekly briefings on the Federal government’s COVID response and recovery efforts. League staff has been monitoring the weekly calls for state, local, and tribal leaders. Thi...

Portal Bridge Replacement Funding Coming

On Monday, New Jersey’s U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, along with our state’s Members of the House Transportation Committee, Representatives Bill Pascrell Jr., Albio Sires, Donald Payne Jr., and Tom Malinowski, announced t...

Local Budgets Await Federal LIfeline

Responding to the public health crisis, and its impact on workers and businesses, Congress has passed, and President Trump has signed, four COVID-19 response bills. All of those bills addressed important priorities. But none of them prioritized the impact...

Call for Federal Lifeline

New Jersey Main Streets will not recover their vibrancy, without effective local services. Programs for Senior Citizens will suffer, without the support of municipal government. Youth recreational opportunities will shrink, without local assistance. But t...

National Guidance at Your Fingertips

Local leaders are on the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic. On their website, you will find National League of Cities generated tools and best practices, updates on federal guidance, resources from the state municipal leagues around the country and from...

Bipartisan Local & State COVID Assistance Bills Introduced in Both Houses of Congress

On Monday, Senator Bob Menendez introduced in the Upper House S.3752, the State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (SMART) bill. Yesterday, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill introduced its companion, H.R. 6954, in the House.

We thank Senator Menendez...

Representative Sherrill to Sponsor House SMART Companion

New Jersey Representative Mikie Sherrill, along with New York’s Peter King, announced that they will introduce a bipartisan House companion to S.3752, Senator Menendez’s bipartisan State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (S...

Senator Menedez to Introduce Municipal Aid Bill

Sometime this week, New Jersey’s senior Senator Bob Menendez and Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., will formally introduce legislation that could help all New Jersey local governments. It would create a $500 billion fund to help states and a...

House Passes HEROES Bill with Local Aid Provision

On Friday night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6800–the HEROES Act. The vote, largely along party lines, was 203-199. Though declared ‘dead on arrival’ in the Senate by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, this ac...

Experts See Local, State, Federal Cooperation Key to Election Security

On Oct. 3, 2018, in Washington, federal election watchdogs conducted an election security briefing with state officials and members of Congress. William Evanina, director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, and Christopher Krebs, the ...

Technical and Program Assistance for Sustainable Water Projects

WaterNow Alliance, a forum for local water leaders, is accepting applications for their Spring 2021 cycle of Project Accelerator. 

The Project Accelerator offers cities, water agencies, and other organizations free expertise that helps make meanin...

COPS Hiring Program (CHP) and School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)

The COPS Office is pleased to announce that the following grant funding opportunities are now open and accepting applications:

COPS Hiring Program (CHP)

The 2021 COPS Hiring Program is a competitive grant program designed to provide funds directly to law en...

Broadband Grant Programs and Webinar Series

Broadband Grant Programs and Webinar Series

The National Telecommunication and Information Administration's (NTIA) BroadbandUSA program will host a series of webinars starting this week on new broadband infrastructure grant programs.

Local governme...

Shuttered Venue Operator Grants

Shuttered Venue Operator Grants

COPS grants announced

The COPS Office is pleased to announce that the following grant funding opportunities are now open and accepting applications:

COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program (CAMP)

The 2021 COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program is a competitive grant program that advances p...

Featured Grants - May 2021

DLGS FY2021 Local Recreation Improvement Grant

Division of Local Government Services (DLGS) FY2021 Local Recreation Improvement Grant

The Division of Local Government Services is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for FY 2021 Local Recreation Improvement Grants (LRIG). &nb...

Featured Grants - April 2021

Featured Grants - March 2021

Featured Grants - February 2021

Featured Grants - January 2021

Featured Grants - December 2020

Featured Grants - November 2020

Featured Grants - October 2020

Featured Grants - September 2020

Featured Grants - August 2020

Featured Grants - July 2020

Featured Grants - June 2020

Municipal Tonnage Grant Applications Deadline Extended to July 1

In accordance with Administrative Order No. 2020-05, the DEP is extending the April 30, 2020, due date under 7:26-15.5(b) for submitting the 2019 MTG applications to July 1, 2020.Complete applications, consistent with the MTG Guide, are now due to the Dep...

Featured Grants - December 2019

Featured Grants - November 2019

Featured Grants - October 2019

Featured Grants - September 2019

Featured Grants - August 2019

League Testifies, Expresses Concerns on S-3688

On Thursday, the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee discussed a committee substitute for S-3688 that requires municipalities to take into account the potential effects of approving the construction and operation of retail warehouses on neighbori...

Shuttered Venue Operator Grants

The American Rescue Plan includes funding for shuttered entertainment venues. The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program appropriates over $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues. The application portal started accepting applications on April 24...

President Biden Announces American Family Plan

Wednesday evening, during a socially-distanced address before Congress, President Joe Biden proposed a 10-year, $1.8 trillion American Family Plan which includes $1 trillion in new spending and investments and $800 billion in tax cuts and tax credits.For ...

New Jersey SFY 2022 Budget Update

Over the past month, State Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 budget hearings have continued to be held by the Legislature. The Governor’s proposed FY 2022 budget includes a full payment to the pension system, a flat increase from the FY 2021 budget to the S...

Week of April 26: COVID-19 Weekly Update

Earlier this week, Governor Murphy announced that New Jersey will be easing restrictions on outdoor gatherings and indoor catered events. Earlier this week, Governor Murphy announced that New Jersey will be easing restrictions on outdoor gatherings and in...

Governor Signs Law Allowing for Nonresident Municipal Emergency Management Coordinators

This week, Governor Murphy signed into law S-551 (now, P.L.2021, c.50). This new law permits the appointment of a non-resident municipal emergency management coordinator in municipalities with populations under 5,000 persons, if a qualified municipal resi...

NJLM President Kovach Testifies at Senate Hearing on Forest Stewardship Issues

This week, the Senate Environment and Energy Committee hosted a hearing to take testimony from experts and interested parties on the topics of forest stewardship and prescribed burning, and the roles humans should play in managing the State’s fo...

New Jersey’s First Climate Change Resilience Strategy is Released

Yesterday, the Murphy Administration released a draft of the state’s first Climate Change Resilience Strategy for public review and comment. The strategy was developed in response to Executive Order 89, issued by Governor Phil Murphy in October 2019. The ...

New Jersey’s First Climate Change Resilience Strategy is Released

Yesterday, the Murphy Administration released a draft of the state’s first Climate Change Resilience Strategy for public review and comment. The strategy was developed in response to Executive Order 89, issued by Governor Phil Murphy in October 2019. The ...

NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission Holds Second Meeting

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission held its second public meeting on Thursday. The Commission took action on a number of procedural issues, including adopting a meeting schedule for the year. Although not mentioned during the meeting, the Commission is ta...

Week of April 19: COVID-19 Update

This week COVID-19 continues to focus on vaccinations, gatherings, and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.COVID-19 Data for April 22, 2021

• New Confirmed Cases – 2,895
• New Probable Cases – 527
• Rate of Transmission .093
• New Lab-Confirmed Deaths 31
• Hospital-Repor...

American Rescue Plan – Preparation for Municipalities that Will Receive Direct Payments

This week, the U.S. Treasury sent a directive for entities with a population above 50,000 that are to receive direct payments of funds stating they should prepare information including a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and an active registra...

Urge Congress to Restore Full SALT Deductibility, Congressional SALT Caucus Established

This week, New Jersey congressional members Bill Pascrell (D-9), Josh Gottheimer (D-5), Mikie Sherrill (D-11), and Tom Malinowski (D-7) joined with seven other congressional members from New York and California to establish the bipartisan Congressional SA...

Cannabis Regulatory Commission Holds First Meeting

On Monday, the Cannabis Regulatory Commission held its first meeting. The Commission is tasked with creating rules and regulations regarding legalized and medical cannabis within the state. At this first meeting, the Commission took the necessary procedur...

Senate Committee to Host Hearing on Forest Stewardship and Prescribed Burning Legislation

On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., the Senate Environment and Energy Committee will host a remote hearing to take testimony from experts and interested parties on the topics of forest stewardship and prescribed burning, and the roles humans shou...

Week of March 29 COVID-19 Update

The Governor this week announced increased outdoor gathering limits and a new COVID-19 vaccine appointment finder. He also discussed the latest modeling from the Department of Health.In regards to the Department of Health modeling, the Governor highlighte...

The House Announces Federal Community Projects Process

The House Appropriations Chair Rep. Rosa DeLauro announced that they will be accepting Members of Congress’ requests for Community Project Funding in appropriations bills for the upcoming 2022 fiscal year. This announcement is the first ...

Cannabis Legalization Deadlines

As we have previously reported, any municipal ordinances adopted prior to the February 22, 2021 adoption of P.L.2021, c.16, prohibiting or limiting cannabis establishments are null and void. Municipalities have until August 21, 2021, 180 days from the sig...

Court Rules NJ Residency Requirement for Public Employees Violates Constitution

A ruling out of the NJ Superior Court issued in early February of this year has garnered attention this week after it was announced that the decision would be appealed. The ruling (Somerville Board of Education v. Drake) examined the New Jersey First Act ...

ABC Establishes Daily and Annual Seasonal Farm Market Permits

On February 5, 2021, Governor Murphy signed P.L. 2021, c.15, requiring the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) to establish a permit that would allow the holder of certain alcoholic beverage manufacturing licenses to sell their products at season...

Local Part PERS Legislation Advances

Early this week legislation sponsored by Senate President Sweeney that would divide the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) into two parts: a State PERS for state employees and a Local PERS for all other employees (S-3522) was considered and releas...

Governor Signs Parental Notification Legislation

Earlier today, Governor Murphy signed S-5472/S-3565 requiring law enforcement to provide a parent, guardian or other person having legal custody of a person under the age of 18 with a written notification for any violation for underage consumption or poss...

Week of March 22: COVID-19 Update

Today the Governor announced an expansion of those eligible for the vaccine along with a partnership with the Biden Administration to open a pilot FEMA Community Vaccination Center located in Newark. Earlier this week the Governor noted that working with ...

Legislative Preview: Week of March 15

Various Assembly and Senate committees will be holding hearings and considering numerous pieces of legislation during the week. The municipal issues before the various committees include:Assembly Telecommunications & Utilities: Considering legislation...

Cannabis Briefing March 18

Please join us on Thursday, March 18 at 12 noon for our second free briefing on the new Cannabis law. Don’t miss this opportunity if you missed our first briefing or if you simply want to get an update. Please register to receive a link for the ...

Week of March 8: COVID Update

March 10 was the one-year anniversary of New Jersey’s first COVID-19 confirmed death. Governor Phil Murphy noted that “the toll of this virus has been staggering. It exceeds the numbers of New Jerseyans lost in any war. In one year, we have lost an averag...

Legislative Preview: Week of March 8

Legislative front:

 Various Assembly and Senate committees will be holding hearings and considering numerous pieces of legislation during the week. The municipal issues before the various committees include: 

• Assembly Oversight, Reform &am...

Wear Your Pearls for WIMG Movie Night

Join the Women in Municipal Government Committee Friday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. to celebrate Women’s History month with a special movie screening of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg’s 2018 biopic, “On the Basis of Sex...

American Rescue Plan Overview Webinar

In light of the final passage of the American Rescue Plan and signature by President Joe Biden later this week, the League is hosting a free briefing webinar on Friday, March 12, at 12 noon to provide an overview of the plan. The focus will be the provisi...

Monday Vote: Urge Assemly to Vote No on A-4850 Third-Party Inspection Bill

A-4850, a bill the League opposes, is scheduled for an Assembly vote on Monday, March 1. The legislation would establish an alternate inspection process for property owners willing to pay a premium fee to expedite inspections performed b...

Your Action Needed: PFRS 20 & Out in Assembly on Monday

On Monday, the full Assembly will consider A-2562/S-1017, which permits a PFRS employee who is enrolled before or after the bill's effective date to retire, regardless of age, upon attaining 20 or more years of service credit and would allow that...

Week of Feb. 22: COVID-19 Weekly Update

This week in Trenton on the COVID-19 front: Governor Phil Murphy issued an Executive Order increasing capacities for religious services, as well as sporting and entertainment events and announced New Jersey should anticipate approximately 70,000 of the Jo...

Feb. 26, 2022 Cannabis Update

On Monday Governor Murphy signed into law legislation legalizing and regulating cannabis use and possession for adults 21 years and older (A-21 – The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act) and decriminal...

NJ AG Launches Marijuana Decriminalization & Legalization Resource Page

This week, on the heels of Governor Murphy signing legislation changing the legal status of marijuana, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal announced the launch of a Marijuana Decriminalization & Cannabis Legalization Resource Page. The webpage is intended ...

FY 2021 State Budget-Municipal Interest

On Tuesday, February 23, Governor Murphy delivered the annual budget address. The Governor’s proposed $44.8 billion budget will guide the State’s spending through the next (FY 2022) fiscal year. While the full details of the Governor’s budget will be rele...

Legislature Preview: Week of February 22

Today As of this writing, it has been announced that the Governor has signed the legislation legalizing adult recreational use of cannabis, the decriminalization of cannabis, and the clean-up legislation that addresses possession by those under 2...

Gov. Murphy Signs Legalization Legislation

As of this writing, it has been announced that the Governor has signed the legislation legalizing adult recreational use of cannabis, the decriminalization of cannabis, and the clean-up legislation that addresses possession by those under 21. We will be s...

Senators Menendez & Booker Discuss American Rescue Plan

On Thursday, League President, Clinton Town Mayor Janice Kovach, and League staff joined more than 200 elected officials discussed the American Rescue Plan with U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker on a virtual call. The Senators gave an overview of...

Governor Announces $250 million Transportation Investment

Joined by local, State, and Federal officials on Wednesday, Governor Murphy announced a $250 million investment in Camden’s Walter Rand Transportation Center that will be multimodal, improve accessibility, and connect NJ Transit buses, private b...

Appellate Panel Rules on Medical Cannabis Facility Permit Applications

This week, the NJ Appellate Division issued an unpublished decision, allowing the state to resume its review of medical marijuana license applications. The review had previously been put on hold while the court examined a challenge to the application proc...

LEAP Challenge Grant Deadline Approaching

The deadline for submission of the LEAP Challenge application is due February 26, 2021. As a reminder, LEAP Implementation grant applications may be submitted at any time, and will be considered on a rolling basis, subject to availabilit...

Expanded Earned Income Tax Credit Program

On national Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day (January 29), the New Jersey Department of Treasury launched a statewide awareness campaign to encourage eligible taxpayers to take advantage of New Jersey’s expanded program. Beginning with the...

House Oversight and Reform Committee Holds Reconciliation Hearing Aid on State and Local Government

The House Oversight and Reform Committee met Feb. 12 to consider details on the state and local government aid section under the Covid-19 emergency aid reconciliation package. While this is a fluid situation and provisions can change, this information is ...

CALL TO ACTION: Support Congressman Pascrell’s Legislation to Eliminate Cap on SALT Deduction

This week, New Jersey Congressman Bill Pascrell introduced H.R. 946, the Stop the Attack on Local Taxpayers (SALT) Act, which eliminates the $10,000 cap and fully restores the deduction for state and local taxes. The measure also eliminates the cap retroa...

Legislative Alert: Help Stop Legislation With Potential Chilling Effect on Redevelopment & Affordabl

As we have previously reported, ACS A1571 & A-1576 would make any public work done on a property or premises for which a public body provides, approves or authorizes a tax abatement or tax exemption for the property or premises subject to the Prevaili...

Legislative Alert: Help Stop Legislation With Potential Chilling Effect on Redevelopment & Affordabl

As we have previously reported, ACS A1571 & A-1576 would make any public work done on a property or premises for which a public body provides, approves or authorizes a tax abatement or tax exemption for the property or premises subject to the Prevaili...

Amended Shared Service Bill S-1 Advances

Yesterday, the Senate Budget Committee unanimously passed the Senate Committee Substitute S-1, Senate President Steve Sweeney’s Shared Service legislation. S-1 amends the “Uniformed Shared Services and Consolidation Act” and the laws governing th...

Governor Murphy Signs Senate Bill 3220 Into Law

On Thursday, February 4, Governor Phil Murphy signed Senate Bill 3220 into law. This legislation allows the Civil Service Commission to exempt entry law enforcement position applicants who have successfully completed a full basic course for police officer...

DEP Project Aims to Help Municipalities Stop Illegal Dumping

The NJ Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced the launch of an enforcement project aimed at assisting municipalities stop illegal dumping. To assist, the DEP will procure and provide equipment, bring partners together for broad tr...

Governor Murphy Announces Paycheck Protection Loan Program

On Tuesday, February 9, Governor Murphy announced that his administration will follow the lead of the Federal Government in creating a Paycheck Protection Loan Program (PPP) to be tax exempt at the state level and enable recipients to deduct business expe...

Week of February 8: COVID-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to focus on vaccinations but also included an Executive Order on attendance at youth sporting events, information on upcoming elections, and the reopening of EDA’s applications for small and micro business ...

Congressman Pascrell Introduces SALT Cap Elimination

New Jersey Congressman Bill Pascrell introduced H.R. 946, the Stop the Attack on Local Taxpayers (SALT) Act, which eliminates the $10,000 cap on property tax deduction. The measure also eliminates the cap retroactively.The measure is co-sponsored by New J...

Congressional Activity on SALT Deduction

The entire New Jersey House delegation sent a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer requesting the repeal of the State and Local Tax (SALT) Deduction cap. They stated that:

“the SALT Deduction has historica...

Governor Murphy Signs Executive Order 217

On Thursday, January 28, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 217, which mandates the Office of Healthcare and Affordability and Transparency to convene an Interagency Health Care Affordability Working Group to seek opportunities across both private and...

Assembly Committee Reivews Water Systems and Authorities Bill

This week, A-3142 and S-922/A-5043 were before the Assembly Special Committee on Infrastructure and Natural Resources. While S-922/A-5043 was only discussed, the committee voted to approve A-3142, sending it to second reading in the Assembly. The League o...

Legislation Subjecting PILOT to Prevailing Wage Advances

The Assembly Labor Committee has advanced an Assembly Committee Substitute A-1571 & A-1576.  ACS A1571 & A-1576 would make any public work done on a property or premises for which a public body provides, approves, or authorizes a tax abat...

Marijuana Legalization Update

On December 17, both Houses of the State Legislature gave final approval to two bills related to the legalization of adult-use recreational marijuana, following the approval of the ballot question in November. Governor Murphy has until February 8 to act o...

Week of January 24: Covid-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to center on vaccinations, with the toll-free vaccination hotline going live and all of the mega-sites up and running. The Governor issued an Executive Order permitting both electronic and in-person collect...

President Biden Issued Various Executive Orders

On his first day in office, President Joe Biden signed a total of 17 executive orders on a variety of issues including COVID-19 federal response, environmental, homeland security, immigration, a foreclosure moratorium, and civil rights issues. You can vie...

President Biden Releases COVID-19 Action Plan and Takes Related Executive Action

On Thursday, Jan. 21, President Joe Biden released the “National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness” that outlines seven specific goals to combat the pandemic: 

• Goal 1: Restore trust with the American ...

Bill Limiting Municipal Regulation of Electric Fences Now Law

Governor Murphy, on Thursday, signed into law S-2419, which prohibits municipal regulation of “perimeter fence intrusion protection systems” (electric fence) and the regulation of locksmith and alarm businesses, among other things. Effective immediately, ...

Assembly Committee to Hear Bill Limiting Appeals of Land Use Decisions

On Monday, the Assembly State and Local Government Committee will review A-4881, a bill which the League supports. A-4881 would prohibit the appeal of land use decisions on grounds attributable to convening the meeting by virtual means, provided that reas...

Week of January 18: COVID-19 Update

This week’s COVID-19 news from Trenton continued to center on vaccinations.  U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker announced today that New Jersey’s Department of Health will receive $591 million in federal funding for the vaccination progra...

COVID-19 Update: Week of January 4

Today, Governor Murphy announced that there were 5,791 new positive cases and an additional 112 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 516,608 confirmed cases, and 17,697 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is 1.02. Sinc...

Governor Signs Tax Incentive Legislation

Yesterday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-4, the "New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020." The new law provides for the administration of programs and policies related to; jobs, property development, food deserts, community partner...

Cannabis Clean Up Legislation Held

Initially, both the Assembly and Senate were scheduled to consider legislation to clarify the recent cannabis legislation, A-5211/S-3320, on Monday. However, as of this afternoon, it appears the deal to legalize and decriminalize cannabis collapsed report...

Governor signs PFRS Enhanced Benefits for Surviving Spouses Act

Yesterday, Governor Murphy signed S487, the “Dominick Marino PFRS Enhanced Benefits for Surviving Spouses Act”. This legislation expands accidental death benefits provided to widow of a PFRS member. The benefit paid will now be either 70% of the compensat...

Right to Farm Act Amended to Allow Employees to Live on Horse Farms

Governor Murphy, yesterday, signed A-2768/S-1245, which amends the “Right to Farm Act” to allow housing for equine-related farm employees.The new law requires that, notwithstanding any local health code or zoning ordinance to the contr...

U.S. Department of Treasury Announces Emergency Rental Assistance Program

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has published information for state and local governments about the new $25 billion Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program that was enacted as part of the most recent COVID-19 emergency relief package. In general, fu...

Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC) Announces Activities

On Wednesday, January 20, 2021, President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris will be sworn in as the next President and Vice President of the United States. The scaled-back inaugural activities will include a National Day of Service, COVID-19 Mem...

Larger Stimulus Checks Unlikely

As of Thursday morning, Senate Majority Leader McConnell has not posted the CASH Act for a Senate vote. This legislation would provide an additional $1,400 stimulus check to the previously authorized $600 for a total of $2,000. The CASH Act passed the Hou...

Federal Update and Further Stimulus

On Tuesday afternoon, Senate Majority Leader McConnell blocked consideration of the CASH Act, which would provide an additional $1,400 stimulus check for a total of $2,000. The CASH Act passed the House of Representatives on Monday by a vote of 275-134. S...

Police Body Camera Funding Legislation Passed

On Wednesday, December 23, Governor Murphy signed A-4907 into law, which appropriates $58 million in funding to support police departments when purchasing body cameras. While P.L. 2020, c. 142 goes a long way to help purchase body cameras, the issue of on...

President Signs Omnibus Funding and COVID-19 Relief Legislation

Despite his previous requests that Congress amend the Omnibus Spending and COVID-19 Relief Bill to increase stimulus payments from $600 to $2,000, President Trump signed the bill on Sunday night with no changes, after many features of the CARES A...

COVID Relief & Omnibus Bill Passed

Along with the passage of an omnibus bill to fund the government through September, Congress overwhelmingly passed a COVID-19 relief bill late Monday night. As previously reported, direct funding for state and local governments was not included in this pa...

NJ Attorney General Issues Two New Law Enforcement Directives

This week, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal issued two new Law Enforcement Directives.  Directive No. 2020-13 establishes a new, statewide Use of Force Policy applicable to all state, county, and local law enforcement officers in New Jersey. It rep...

Week of December 21 COVID-19 Update

Today, Governor Murphy announced that there were 4,871 new positive cases and an additional 80 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 449,842 confirmed cases, and 16,599 confirmed deaths. The...

Federal Update: No Direct State & Local Government Funding

Congressional Leadership announced an agreement on a COVID-19 relief package, which is expected to be voted on Monday. Excluded from that agreement is direct funding for state and local governments.The deadline to utilize existing CARES funding will be ex...

Week of December 14: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 3,975 new positive cases and an additional 44 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 423,226 confirmed cases and 16,216 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1...

Hospital Property Tax Subsidy Bill Headed to Governor

After advancing through Senate and Assembly committee hearings, yesterday both houses voted to approve A-1135/S-624 & S-357, sending the measure to the Governor’s office for his action. While the League is supportive of a legislative solution to the i...

Senate Passes PFRS 20 and Out Legislation

On Thursday, the Senate unanimously passed S-1017, which permits a PFRS employee who is enrolled before or after the bill's effective date to retire, regardless of age, upon attaining 20 or more years of service credit and would allow that employ...

Tax Incentive Legislation Moving Quickly

Late on Wednesday, it was announced that Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney, and Assembly Speaker Coughlin reached an agreement on reforms to the tax incentive programs.According to the announcement  the agreement “includes annual caps, st...

Your Action Needed: Full Senate to Consider PFRS 20 & Out Legislation

On Thursday, the full Senate will be considering S-1017, which permits a PFRS employee who is enrolled before or after the bill's effective date to retire, regardless of age, upon attaining 20 or more years of service credit and would allow that employee ...

Hospital Property Tax Subsidy Bill Headed for Vote

Hospital Property Tax Subsidy Bill Headed for Vote After advancing through Senate and Assembly committee hearings, A-1135/S-624 & S-357 have been scheduled for a vote in both houses on Thursday, December 17, 2020. A-1135 was previously approved by the...

Covid-19 Update: Week of December 6

Governor Murphy today announced that there were 3,821 new positive cases and an additional 55 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 390,256 confirmed cases, and 15,794 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.14. The...

Cannabis Legislation Advancing

Late last week Governor Murphy and legislative leaders reached an agreement on the legalization of adult recreational use of cannabis. In the announcement Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney, Speaker Coughlin, Senator Scutari and Assemblywoman Quija...

Local Finance Board Oks DLGS 2021 Budget Calendar Year Extension

On Wednesday, the Local Finance Board approved the proposed Division of Local Government Services 2021 Calendar Year (CY) Budget extensions. The revised CY 2019 Budget deadlines follow:

Mayor/Council Faulkner Act (Executive) budget transmission to the gove...

Small Cell Regulation Bill Advances

Yesterday, the Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee advanced with amendments, A-1116. The purpose of this legislation is to provide for uniform regulation of small wireless facility deployment in the State and attempts to mirror and in some...

Disabled Veterans Property Tax with Reimbursement Advances

Earlier this week the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee advanced S-220, which extends the totally disabled veterans property tax exemption to be retroactive to the effective date of the determination of the veteran’s total disability by the Uni...

Actions on Law Enforcement Body Worn Cameras

Last week, Governor Murphy signed S1163 legislation regarding the use of Body Worn Cameras for Law Enforcement and issued Executive Order 201 Establishing an Interagency Working Group on Law Enforcement Body Worn Cameras Task Force. Please see the League&...

LFN Issued on UCC Enforcement

On Tuesday, November 24, the Division of Local Government Services released Local Finance Notice 2020-27 jointly with the Division of Codes and Standards. It is an update to Local Finance Notice 2017-15.Local Finance Notice 2020-27 states that “...

AG Issues Marijuana Charge Guidance

Last week, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal issued additional guidance to prosecutors concerning the prosecution of low-level marijuana cases, supplementing his August 29, 2018 and November 4, 2020 guidance.The Attorney General’s guidance directs all New Je...

Law Requires Use of Body Cameras

Last Tuesday, Governor Murphy signed S1163/A4312 which requires the use of law enforcement body cameras, subject to available funding after the legislature concurred with the changes in his veto message. While P.L. 2020, c. 128 took effect immediately it ...

Thank You For Attenting the 105th Annual Conference

Dear Elected and Appointed Officials:We would like to take a moment to thank you for attending the League’s 105^th Annual Conference, presented virtually in 2020. When the ball dropped last New Year’s Eve, little did we know what lay ahead in 2020, and now...

Conference Session Discusses Legalized Cannabis

It’s official, the voters of New Jersey have giving their approval to the ballot question on the legalization of recreational marijuana for those over 21. What’s next?Join our session “Marijuana in the Mile High City – A Collaborative Approach” at the 105...

Electronic Review of Construction Permits Up for Hearing

On Monday, the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee is scheduled to consider A-1145/S-1739, which the League opposes. A-1145/S-1739 would establish an electronic permit processing review system requiring electronic submission of applications for con...

Gov. Murphy Signs Plastic Ban into Law

On November 4, Governor Murphy signed into law the strictest plastic ban legislation in the United States. For more information on P.L. 2020, c.117 see our blog post. Also, we will be hosting a League Conference Session on the plastic bag ban so don&r...

Governor Rejects Unfunded Body Camera Mandate

Since it was first introduced in 2014, the League has expressed concerns with legislation meant to require law enforcement officers to wear body cameras. Specifically, under the provisions of this bill, every State, county, and municipal law enfo...

2019 Senior Freeze Deadline Extended

The filing deadline for the 2019 Senior Freeze Program has been extended from November 2 to December 31, 2020. If your residents have questions on the program they can call the Property Tax Reimbursement Hotline at 1-800-882-6597. As a reminder, the Senio...

Hospital Propety Tax Bill Held from Vote

After making their way through committee last week, A-1135 and the Senate Committee Substitute for S-357 and S-624 were scheduled yesterday for a vote before the full Assembly and Senate. However, the legislation was removed from the voting session agenda...

COVID-19 Update: Week of October 26, 2020

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 2,089 new positive cases and an additional 7 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 236,523 confirmed cases, and 14,546 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.26, and ...

NJLM, DCA Seek Innovation in Governance Program Applications

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and the New Jersey League of Municipalities (NJLM) will again acknowledge and promote Innovation in Governance through our annual recognition program. This is a great opportunity to showcase innovative ...

Governor Murphy to Keynote League Conference

We are pleased to announce that Governor Phil Murphy will again deliver the keynote address at the League’s Annual Conference, presented virtually in 2020. The address will be streamed on Thursday, November 19, 12:30 PM.Contact: Mike Cerra, Execu...

Hopes for Federal COVID Aid Package Dim ... Again

On Wednesday, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, the administration’s point person on COVID relief, stated, “At this point getting something done before the election and executing on that would be difficult, just given where we are in t...

EO 186 Implements Task Force to Combat Youth Violence

This week, Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 188 (PDF) which directs various state agencies to implement the recommendations of the Interagency Task Force to Combat Youth Bias Report (PDF) that do not require legislation. The purpose of the ...

Comments Sought on Emergency Remote Meeting Regulations

As we have previously reported, the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) issued emergency regulations regarding emergency remote meeting protocols for local public bodies. The DCA is also taking action to make these emergency regulations permanent and wi...

Panel Affirms AG Directive on Police Disciplinary Records

Today, a State Appellate Panel affirmed Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive 2020-5 (AG Directive 2020-5) which made changes to the statewide rules for police internal affairs investigations, known as the Internal Affairs Policy and Procedures (IAPP...

Local Government Emergency Fund Grant Application Now Available

Counties and municipalities excluded from the federal government’s direct Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) allocation plan, as well as those counties and municipalities that are currently the most impacted in comparison to their available resources...

Property Tax Relief Bill Hearing on Monday

On Monday, the Assembly State and Local Government Committee will hear A-2991. This legislation will clarify the telecommunications industry's corporate tax responsibilities, and shield local taxpayers from the costs of endless tax court litigati...

Federal COVID Relief Bill Adds Local Governments

House Democrats on Monday unveiled a scaled-back $2.2 trillion coronavirus relief package, in the hope of kick-starting negotiations for a bipartisan deal before the elections.This pared-down HEROES Act — $1.2 trillion less than the original bill passed b...

NJ Delegation Challenges FEMA Sanitation/PPE Policy Change

Bipartisan Members of New Jersey’s Congressional Delegation are urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to reverse a new policy stipulating the agency will no longer provide emergency reimbursement to school systems and local gover...

Call to Action: Transportation Programs Expire Sept. 30

On September 30, the federal surface transportation law, the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, expires and immediate Congressional action is needed to keep transportation projects moving across the U.S.America’s trans...

Vegetation Management Bill Advances

Yesterday, the Senate Economic Growth Committee approved S-434, known as the “Vegetation Management Response Act.” In the past, the League has opposed this and similar bills because they would give electric utility companies complete d...

Hospital Property Tax Bill Advances

Yesterday, the Assembly Appropriations Committee advanced with committee amendments A-1135, a bill which the League opposes. A-1135 seeks to address the ongoing issue of property tax exemptions for nonprofit hospitals with on-site for-profit medical provi...

Governor Takes Action on Bills

Earlier this week, Governor Phil Murphy signed two bills of interest into law – S-349 (P.L. 2020, c.80), which requires developers to offer electric vehicle charging stations as an option in certain new home construction, and S-2380 (P.L. 2020, ...

MIllioniares' Tax to Bolster State Budget

An agreement has been reached by Governor Phil Murphy and Legislative leaders on an income tax rate hike (from 8.97% to 10.75%) on earnings in excess of $1 million. The higher rate currently applies to income over $5 million. Announcing the agreement, Gov...

League Position on Governor's Budget Proposed Presented to Legislature

The League of Municipalities’ position on the Governor’s proposed FY 21 budget has been presented by League President Jim Perry and League Executive Director Mike Cerra to the members of both the Senate Budget and Appropriation Committ...

2020 League Conference: Early Registration Discount through Oct. 1

The League is here to help our members navigate through the pandemic & plan for recovery. Join us this November at the 105^th Annual Conference presented virtually - no need to travel. Earn CEUs at live sessions, and watch recorded sessions on-demand f...

State Budget Deliberations Begin

Yesterday, both the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee and the Assembly Budget Committee began their review of Governor Murphy’s proposed State Budget for FY ’21. That budget needs to be enacted by the end of this month, and it...

Final NJ Census Push in Full Swing

There are just a few weeks remaining until the Census ends on September 30.Across the state, Census takers are knocking on the doors of those households that have not yet responded. New Jersey is officially in the midst of the final Get Out The Count (GOT...

Governor Signs Coronavirus Relief Bonds Legislation

On Monday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-3971/S-2475, reflecting both the initial intent of the legislation and his recommended changes made through a previous conditional veto. This new law will allow municipalities and counties to issue a special em...

Census 2020- Time Is Running Out

The U.S. Census Bureau will stop counting residents in your municipality, and across the State and Nation, in less than four weeks. This year’s – this decade’s – truncated schedule for in-person contact will end on ...

Federal Election Risk Profile Tool Released

On Wednesday, the Federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released the Election Risk Profile Tool, a user-friendly assessment tool to equip election officials and federal agencies in prioritizing and managing cybersecurity risks to...

Annual League Conference Early Registration Pricing Available Now

The 105^th Annual NJLM Conference has transitioned to a virtual event the week of November 16 through November 20. Read the full announcement.RegistrationRegistration is open! The 2020 Virtual Conference will provide the same benefits that attendees have c...

Proposed Budget Holds ETR/CMPTRA Level

Today, in Piscataway, Governor Murphy presented his revised budget proposal for State Fiscal Year 2021 (SFY ’21) to the Legislature and people of New Jersey. If adopted by the Legislature, as is, the budget would hold combined appropriations for...

Week of August 17: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 313 new positive cases and an additional 13 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 188,817 confirmed cases, and 14,112 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,839 probable deaths assoc...

Local Aid Crucial for Economic Recovery

In a recent article, originally appearing in the August 13 ‘Bond Buyer,’ Mark Zandi, Chief Economist for Moody’s Analytics, predicts a ‘double-dip’ recession for the U.S. economy if Congress and the Trump ...

FEMA Announces Funding for Hazard Mitigation Grants

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has posted funding notices for two hazard mitigation grant programs for more than $660 million. The two grant programs, the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant and the Building Resilient Infrastructure an...

Membership Alert: 105th Annual Conference will be Virtual

August 14, 2020

Membership Alert: 105th Annual Conference will be Virtual

After careful deliberation, the NJLM Executive Board and Officers announce that the 105th Annual New Jersey State League of Municipalities Conference will be held as a Virtual Confere...

Week of August 10: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 585 new positive cases and an additional 10 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 187,164 confirmed cases, and 14,064 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,839 probable deaths assoc...

NJ Supreme Court Rules COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act Constitutional

The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that the State’s plan to bond for up to $9.9 billion to deal with revenue shortfalls brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic is constitutional, provided certain restrictions are followed.The case was brou...

9th Circuit Mostly Upholds FCC Order Preempting Local Authority Over 5G Deployment

On Wednesday, the Ninth Circuit largely upheld a series of Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Orders aimed at expediting the deployment of small cell and 5G technology at the expense of local control and autonomy. Although many provisions of the Order...

Time is Running Out for the 2020 Census

This week, the U.S. Census Bureau began its full, nationwide follow up, with households that have not yet responded to the 2020 Census. Up to 500,000 census takers across the country will go door to door to assist people in responding to the 2020 Census. ...

President’s Supplemental Unemployment Compensation Plan Poses Problems

As reported in our Monday Daily Update, President Trump took action last weekend, to address a few aspects of the economic crisis, caused by the Coronavirus. His Memorandum on Authorizing the Other Needs Assistance Program for Major Disaster Declarations ...

President Trump Takes Steps to Address COVID-19 Relief

On Saturday, President Trump signed an Executive Order and three presidential memorandums after talks between the Administration and Democratic leaders on a new COVID-19 relief package broke down. The Democratic leaders are pushing for the HEROES Act ($3 ...

Week of August 2: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 384 new positive cases and an additional 12 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 184,061 confirmed cases, and 14,007 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,853 probable deaths assoc...

Tropical Storm Isaias Update from Board of Public Utilities (BPU)

As of 1:00 p.m. on Friday approximately 300,000 utility customers remain without power statewide, down from a peak of 1.4 million.The BPU understands that being without power is extremely frustrating and is in constant contact with all utilities to ensure...

Governor Conditionally Vetoes CRB Bill

On July 31 Governor Murphy issued a conditional veto for A-3971, which authorizes the issuance of "coronavirus relief bonds" (CRBs) by municipalities and counties. In the conditional veto language the Governor acknowledge the need for local gove...

DLGS Issues LFN on Enery Tax Receipt & CMPTRA Payment Program

The Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2020-17 summarizing the Energy Tax Receipt and CMPTRA payment program for CY 2020 and SFY 2020 extension budgets. The Energy Tax Receipt and CMPTRA August 1 installment payment was 45% ...

Governor Vetoes Bill Expanding Project Labor Agreements

On Monday Governor Murphy issued a conditional veto for S-1370, which expands the permissible use of project labor agreements for public works projects from building based public works projects to include highways, bridges, pumping stations, and water and...

Census Bureau Moves to Cut Data Collection Phase Short

Late last week, the U.S. Census Bureau released information on a number of steps being taken to shorten the time for field data collection, to the end of September, and to provide reapportionment data to the Congress by the end of the year. Until this ann...

Nominations Sought for NJLM Mayors' Hall of Fame

The League is accepting nominations for the 2020 Mayors’ Hall of Fame. To qualify, a mayor must be serving in at least their 10th cumulative year for the silver level, 20th year for the gold level, or 30th year for the platinum level. Mayors who...

COVID-19 Research Volunteers Needed

Please let your citizens know about these heroic service opportunities.First, anyone who has recovered from the virus, who has been symptom-free for at least 14 days, and who is otherwise able to donate blood, could be eligible to save lives by donating t...

Governor Issues Four New COVID-19 Related EOs

Since our last update, Governor Murphy issued four new COVID-19 related executive orders: Executive Order 170, which extends certain statutory deadlines across state government; Executive Order 171 which extends the Public Health Emergency that was declar...

Storm Update from NJBPU

As of 2 pm on Wednesday, approximately 908,000 utility customers remain without power statewide, down from a peak of 1.4 million yesterday. More than 2,000 out of state crews are helping our utilities restore electricity. This includes crews from Canada, ...

Week of July 27: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 699 new positive cases and an additional 10 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 181,660 confirmed cases, and 13,923 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,875 probable deaths assoc...

Urge Your Citizens to Respond to the Census

To be blunt about it, the U.S. Census is all about two things: Funding and Representation. Every one of your citizens who remains uncounted is a missed opportunity. And every missed opportunity is a bonus for those living elsewhere. What your citizens do,...

New Federal COVID Relief Bill Offers No Relief for New Jersey Municipalities

Yesterday in Washington, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell unveiled a new COVID Relief bill. The product of negotiations within the Senate Republican caucus, and between it and the White House, the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protecti...

Coronavirus Relief Bond Legislation Advances, Before Senate

Today the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee released S-2475/A-3971, which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” (CRB) by municipalities and counties. The legislation permits municipalities to issue bonds for th...

Portal Bridge Replacement Project Progress

On Monday, NJ Transit’s Board of Directors approved a project development agreement with Amtrak, moving the Portal Bridge replacement project one step closer to a start. The project, which is expected to cost $1.8 billion, is now scheduled to be...

Governor Murphy Announces Main Street Commercial Corridors Relief

Yesterday, Governor Murphy announced a new relief program for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Small Business Lease – Emergency Assistance Program (SBL-EAGP) will allow businesses in 64 eligible municipalities to apply for...

NJSC Issues "Action Plan for Ensuring Equal Justice"

Last week, the NJ Supreme Court released an Action Plan for Ensuring Equal Justice. The Action Plan outlines a series of reforms that the Court will seek to accomplish within the next year in order to “eliminate disparities within the court syst...

Week of July 13: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 202 new positive results and an additional 20 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 176,551 confirmed cases, and 13,710 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,974 probable deaths ass...

Murphy Ok's COVID-19 Borrowing Bill

Yesterday, both the Assembly, by a 46-26 vote, and the Senate, by a 22-15 vote, passed the amended State COVID-19 Borrowing bill. Late yesterday Governor Murphy signed it into law. P.L. 2020, c. 60 authorizes the borrowing of up to $9.9 billion in State g...

Plans for Closing the Digital Dividie

Yesterday, Governor Murphy announced a three-pronged plan to address the digital divide for school children, in time for the 2020-2021 school year. The plan looks to put needed technology into the hands of all pre-K to 12 students, with unmet hardware and...

Local Aid to be Debated as Congress Reconvenes

On Monday, Congress will return to Washington. Press reports indicate that leaders in both Houses and in both political parties will seek bipartisan agreement on a new legislative response to the economic impact of the Coronavirus.

As the next COVID respon...

CARES Act CRF Guidance Permits use of Funds for TANs Costs

The U.S. Treasury has been using FAQs to expand permissible uses of Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) monies, distributed pursuant to the CARES Act. You can view the latest (July 8) at Treasury CRF FAQs.

On page 7, that guidance states (emphasis added):

&ls...

Week of June 29, 2020 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday the Governor announced that there were 423 new positive results and 45 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19 since the day before. To date, there have been 171,928 confirmed cases, and 13,224 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,854 probable de...

Interim State Budget Enacted

On Monday, the Legislature passed and the Governor signed the Supplemental Appropriations bill that will permit state spending to bridge the gap between the usual end of the Fiscal Year, on June 30, and this year’s final day, September 30.

This b...

Proposal Will Prevent Litigation, Provide Resident Property Tax Relief

The League fully supports A-2991/S-421, which will clarify the telecommunications industry’s corporate tax responsibilities, and shield local taxpayers from the costs of endless tax court litigation. We thank the sponsors for their attention to ...

NJ Supreme Court Issues Ruling on Tax Exempt Properties

Earlier this week, the NJ Supreme Court released its opinion in Gourmet Dining LLC v. Union Twp., a case examining whether or not a restaurant operating on a State university campus qualifies for a property tax exemption. More precisely, the issue before ...

Week of June 22, 2020 COVID-19 Update

On Thursday, the Governor announced that there were 406 new positive results and 26 deaths for COVID-19 since the day before. The Governor also announced that they identified an additional 1,854 probable deaths. These are fatalities in which no test was c...

Bridge Budget Bill Introduced

Because of the extension of the State’s current Fiscal Year for an additional three months, the Legislature must pass and the Governor sign a Supplemental Appropriations bill by midnight, June 30. On Thursday, June 24, Assemblywoman Eliana Pinto...

New Law Provides Local Units with Flexibility to Waive Penalties on Overdue Sewer or Water Charges

Last Friday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-4126 (now, P.L.2020, c.39), which gives municipalities, counties, and utility authorities the ability to waive interest and lien enforcement for certain delinquent water and sewer utility payments during emer...

Time's Running Out for Small Business help

The Payroll Protection Program (PPP), a key component of the Federal CARES Act, will end on June 30. Please let all of your struggling small businesses know that they can apply for forgivable PPP loans, through the Small Business Administration (SBA). But...

Feds Allow State & Counties Flexibility in CARES Act Aid

Yesterday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury again updated its Coronavirus Relief Fund Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) web page. With this update, Treasury is again giving states and qualifying local governments greater flexibility in the use...

NLC to Host Northeast & Mid-Atlantic Issues Update

Join our federal partner the National League of Cities for timely information via a webinar focused on issues affecting the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region.

The last few weeks have been turbulent and challenging for local leaders. From fighting a global ...

Week of June 15, 2020 COVID-19 Update

On Thursday, the Governor announced that there were 442 additional positive results since yesterday and 38 deaths. That brings the statewide totals to 168,107 positive results and 12,800 COVID-19 related deaths. Yesterday, 73 people were admitted to the h...

AG Issues Directive to Increase Transparency in Police Discipline

On Monday, State Attorney General, Gurbir Grewal issued Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive 2020-5 (AG Directive 2020-5) which makes changes to how law enforcement agencies throughout the state report disciplinary complaints against the agency&...

Assembly Approves Bill Decriminalizing Small Amounts of Marijuana

Yesterday, the Assembly passed A-1897 which aims to decriminalize marijuana and promote awareness of the expungement process. The bill would replace arrests for possessing up to two ounces of marijuana or hashish with a civil fine of $50. A-1897 would als...

House Committee Can Increase Local Share of Transportation Funding

On Wednesday, the House Transportation Committee began consideration of their transportation reauthorization proposal - "Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation in America" (INVEST in America) Act. For further in...

150 Economists Call For State & Local Funding in Next Package

A letter urging more Congressional action in response to the economic impact of the pandemic calls for "new assistance to states and localities" as part of new legislation. "An adequate response must be large, commensurate with the nearly $...

Week of June 8, 2020 Covid-19 Update

Yesterday marked the 100th day since the first identified case of COVID-19 in New Jersey. Since that day, there have been 165,816 lab-confirmed cases of the virus in New Jersey, and 12,443 confirmed deaths. On that 100th day, Governor Murphy reported 539 ...

Please Take Action: Update State Bonding Proposal and Local COVID Bond Legislation

Last week, the State Assembly approved A-4175, the “New Jersey COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act,’’ by a vote of 51-28. This bill authorizes the issuance of $5 billion in State general obligation bonds to be used in response to the...

NJ Supreme Court Issues Post-Pandemic Plan for Returning to In-Person Court Proceedings

The New Jersey Supreme Court has approved the first part of the New Jersey Courts Post-Pandemic Plan for transitioning from fully remote court operations (Phase 1) to the gradual return to courthouses and facilities (Phase 2).  NJ courts will beg...

Sen. Menendez, Mayor Passanante Join Colleagues on National Briefing

Our partners in Washington, the National League of Cities (NLC) hosted a ‘Protecting and Growing America’s Economic Recovery’ virtual Hill briefing. This is a part of NLC’s ‘Cities Are Essential’...

FCC Approves Order to Streamline Deployment of 5G Equipment onto Macro Towers

Earlier this week the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC), in a 3-2 vote, adopted a Declaratory Ruling clarifying the FCC’s 2014 rules regarding the so-called “streamlined review” of deployment of 5G w...

Buckelew Named Assistant Executive Director

Re: Update on League Transition - Appointment of Lori Buckelew as Assistant Executive Director

I write today in my capacity as the League President to update you on the status of the League’s leadership transition.

As you recall, we have previousl...

Week of June 1, 2020 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor reported an additional 603 positive lab test results for COVID-19, for a statewide total of 162,530. He also reported an additional 92 deaths attributed to the virus, for a statewide total of 11,970. Of particular significance was ...

NLC Offers Race, Equity, and Leadership Guidance

Yesterday, Clarence Anthony, CEO and Executive Director of our Federal partner the National League of Cities, sent a letter to all State municipal leagues and direct member communities offering support, encouragement and resources in dealing with chronic ...

COVID Bond Bill Clears NJ Assembly; NJLM Committee Set to Review Legislation

Yesterday, the State Assembly approved A-4175, the “New Jersey COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act,’’ by a vote of 51-28. This bill authorizes the issuance of $5 billion in State general obligation bonds to be used in respon...

Congress Looks to INVEST in America's Infrastructure

We have received a summary of a soon-to-be-introduced bill – the Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation (INVEST) in America Act. Among other provisions, the bill would dedicate $19 billion, over five years, in L...

Gov. Executive Order Greenlights Outdoor Dining & In-Person Non-Essential Retail

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 150 permitting outdoor dining and in-person non-essential retail effective Monday, June 15 at 6:00 a.m.

Outdoor Dining

In-person service at outdoor areas for restaurants, cafeterias, dining establishments, an...

ABC Issues Guidance on New Outdoor Dining Permits

The Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has created a new permit for licensed premises to expand their premises to allow for reasonable seating capacity while observing social distancing guidelines. The COVID-19 Expansion Permit is available to a...

Surgeon General Urges Continued Precautions

The White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs has been conducting weekly briefings on the Federal government’s COVID response and recovery efforts. League staff has been monitoring the weekly calls for state, local, and tribal leaders. Thi...

Week of May 25: COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor reported an additional 1,261 positive lab test results for COVID-19, for a statewide total of 157,815.  He also reported an additional 66 deaths attributed to the virus, for a statewide total of 11,401.

Also, the Governor s...

Legislature Focuses on State Three-Month Budget Plan

Yesterday in Trenton, the Assembly Budget Committee heard testimony from the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services’ Budget and Finance Officer, Frank Haines, and State Treasurer, Elizabeth Maher Muoio, regarding Governor Murphy’s ...

Gov. Signs Legislation Setting 2020 Tax Appeal Date

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed into law A-4157, which extends the statutory deadline to file a property tax appeal from May 1, 2020 to July 1, 2020 and provides the County Board of Taxation until September 30, 2020 to render a decision on a tax appeal. ...

Portal Bridge Replacement Funding Coming

On Monday, New Jersey’s U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, along with our state’s Members of the House Transportation Committee, Representatives Bill Pascrell Jr., Albio Sires, Donald Payne Jr., and Tom Malinowski, announced t...

Local Budgets Await Federal LIfeline

Responding to the public health crisis, and its impact on workers and businesses, Congress has passed, and President Trump has signed, four COVID-19 response bills. All of those bills addressed important priorities. But none of them prioritized the impact...

ACT NOW Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program Applications Due May 29

This Friday, May 29 is the deadline to apply for the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding (CESF) Program for state and local municipalities identified as eligible for funding under the 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (J...

State Response to Massive Revenue Gap Preserves ETR/CMPTRA

On Friday, State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio announced that State revenue losses in the current Fiscal Year, which now will end on September 30, will total $2.75 Billion. As you recall, back in March, in anticipation of COVID’s economic fall...

Week of May 18: COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor announced that an additional 1,304 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 151,472. He also announced another 98 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 10,843.New hospitalizations continue a d...

State Budget Update

Today State Treasurer Liz Muoio issued a report on the fiscal condition of the state budget. The report indicates that the State can expect an up-to $10 billion shortfall between now and June 2021. The data reflects a shortfall of $2.75 billion through th...

State Planning Commission Extends Town Center Designation Period

The State Planning Commission this week issued a Notice of Rule Waiver/Modification/Suspension pursuant to Executive Order No. 103, which temporarily relaxes regulatory provisions concerning the expiration of town center designations made pursuant to the ...

FCC to Consider Further Action Preempting Local Authority

This week the Federal Communications Commission announced that it would be considering at its June 9th open meeting, the “State/Local Approval of Wireless Equipment Modifications Under Section 6409(a)” Declaratory Ruling and Notice of ...

FCC to Consider Further Action Preempting Local Authority

This week the Federal Communications Commission announced that it would be considering at its June 9th open meeting, the “State/Local Approval of Wireless Equipment Modifications Under Section 6409(a)” Declaratory Ruling and Notice of ...

Call for Federal Lifeline

New Jersey Main Streets will not recover their vibrancy, without effective local services. Programs for Senior Citizens will suffer, without the support of municipal government. Youth recreational opportunities will shrink, without local assistance. But t...

DEP Launches "Mask Up!" Campaign

Today, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced the launch of their “Mask Up!” campaign, encouraging residents and visitors to wear face coverings in state parks, beaches and public spaces. 

The campaign inclu...

Bipartisan Local & State COVID Assistance Bills Introduced in Both Houses of Congress

On Monday, Senator Bob Menendez introduced in the Upper House S.3752, the State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (SMART) bill. Yesterday, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill introduced its companion, H.R. 6954, in the House.

We thank Senator Menendez...

Representative Sherrill to Sponsor House SMART Companion

New Jersey Representative Mikie Sherrill, along with New York’s Peter King, announced that they will introduce a bipartisan House companion to S.3752, Senator Menendez’s bipartisan State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (S...

Your Action Needed on COVID-19 Bonding

On Thursday the Assembly passed by a vote of 57-20 A-3971 which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” by municipalities and counties. Specifically, A-3971 permits municipalities to issue bonds for the loss of revenue an...

Gov. Signs States of Emergency Law Addressing Timeframes & Deadlines

On May 15 Governor Murphy signed A-3969/S-2392 into law. P.L. 2020, c. 34 provides for local government flexibility with regard to various timeframes, deadlines, and other statutory requirements in order to help them continue to function and meet their ob...

Senator Menedez to Introduce Municipal Aid Bill

Sometime this week, New Jersey’s senior Senator Bob Menendez and Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., will formally introduce legislation that could help all New Jersey local governments. It would create a $500 billion fund to help states and a...

House Passes HEROES Bill with Local Aid Provision

On Friday night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6800–the HEROES Act. The vote, largely along party lines, was 203-199. Though declared ‘dead on arrival’ in the Senate by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, this ac...

AG Issues Police Well-Being Program Directive

Earlier this week NJ Attorney General Gurbir Grewal issued a Directive seeking to promote emotional and mental well-being of New Jersey law enforcement officers. The Directive creates the New Jersey Resiliency Program for Law Enforcement (“NJRP-...

July 2019 Interest Arbitration Update

In June, mediators appointed by the Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) issued three interest arbitration awards. The first interest arbitration awards to be issued since the expiration of the 2% cap. Each of these awards arose out of an impasse...

Thank You For Attenting the 105th Annual Conference

Dear Elected and Appointed Officials:We would like to take a moment to thank you for attending the League’s 105^th Annual Conference, presented virtually in 2020. When the ball dropped last New Year’s Eve, little did we know what lay ahead in 2020, and now...

Guidance & Outlook for Legalized Marijuana: Hot Sessions

It’s official, the voters of New Jersey have given their approval to the ballot question on the legalization of recreational marijuana for those over 21. What’s next? The Virtual League Conference is offering two sessions specifically ...

Exhibitor Learning Sessions at the NJLM Virtual Conference

Each year Exhibitors at the League Conference provide valuable information, tools, and services to improve local government operations. And each day of this year’s Virtual Conference, midday will feature Exhibitor Learning Sessions that provide ...

Hot Topics for Local Officials: COVID-19 Sessions at the League Conference

Communities have struggled with impactful issues in the past, but perhaps none more impactful than the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the shutdown in March, the lives of every person in the state have been changed. In local governments, COVID-19 has meant chang...

Hot Topics for Local Officials: Environmental Sessions at the League Conference

As caretakers of the land for future generations, the environment remains an ongoing concern for New Jersey’s municipalities. With the nation’s most strict plastic bag ban signed off by Governor Murphy and mask litter cluttering our st...

Conference Session Discuses Legalized Cannabis

It’s official, the voters of New Jersey have giving their approval to the ballot question on the legalization of recreational marijuana for those over 21. What’s next?Join our session “Marijuana in the Mile High City – A Collaborative Approach” at the 105...

Governor Murphy to Keynote League Conference

We are pleased to announce that Governor Phil Murphy will again deliver the keynote address at the League’s Annual Conference, presented virtually in 2020. The address will be streamed on Thursday, November 19, 12:30 PM.Contact: Mike Ce...

2020 League Conference: Early Registration Discount through Oct. 16

The League is here to help our members navigate through the pandemic & plan for recovery. Join us this November at the 105^th Annual Conference presented virtually--no need to travel. Earn CEUs at live sessions, and watch recorded sessions on-demand fo...

Annual League Conference Early Registration Pricing Available Now

The 105^th Annual NJLM Conference has transitioned to a virtual event the week of November 16 through November 20. Read the full announcement.RegistrationRegistration is open! The 2020 Virtual Conference will provide the same benefits that attendees have c...

Membership Alert: 105th Annual Conference will be Virtual

August 14, 2020

Membership Alert: 105th Annual Conference will be Virtual

After careful deliberation, the NJLM Executive Board and Officers announce that the 105th Annual New Jersey State League of Municipalities Conference will be held as a Virtual Confere...

Conference Center Preparations

We are busy making arrangements for this live event including education and exhibits with the full expectation that by November the State will permit important gatherings of government officials like the Annual League Conference. 

The League is ta...

League Testifies, Expresses Concerns on S-3688

On Thursday, the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee discussed a committee substitute for S-3688 that requires municipalities to take into account the potential effects of approving the construction and operation of retail warehouses on neighbori...

Governor Signs Law Allowing for Nonresident Municipal Emergency Management Coordinators

This week, Governor Murphy signed into law S-551 (now, P.L.2021, c.50). This new law permits the appointment of a non-resident municipal emergency management coordinator in municipalities with populations under 5,000 persons, if a qualified municipal resi...

NJLM President Kovach Testifies at Senate Hearing on Forest Stewardship Issues

This week, the Senate Environment and Energy Committee hosted a hearing to take testimony from experts and interested parties on the topics of forest stewardship and prescribed burning, and the roles humans should play in managing the State’s forests.Whil...

Senate Committee to Host Hearing on Forest Stewardship and Prescribed Burning Legislation

On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., the Senate Environment and Energy Committee will host a remote hearing to take testimony from experts and interested parties on the topics of forest stewardship and prescribed burning, and the roles humans shou...

Local Part PERS Legislation Advances

Early this week legislation sponsored by Senate President Sweeney that would divide the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) into two parts: a State PERS for state employees and a Local PERS for all other employees (S-3522) was considered ...

Governor Signs Parental Notification Legislation

Earlier today, Governor Murphy signed S-5472/S-3565 requiring law enforcement to provide a parent, guardian or other person having legal custody of a person under the age of 18 with a written notification for any violation for underage consumption or poss...

Legislative Preview: Week of March 15

Various Assembly and Senate committees will be holding hearings and considering numerous pieces of legislation during the week. The municipal issues before the various committees include:Assembly Telecommunications & Utilities: Considering legislation...

Recap: Week of March 8 Legislative Committees

During the week various Assembly and Senate committees held hearings and considered numerous pieces of legislation. The following legislation of municipal impact was considered: 

• A-5231 permits a county or municipality to enter into a revenue-shar...

Legislative Preview: Week of March 8

Legislative front:

 Various Assembly and Senate committees will be holding hearings and considering numerous pieces of legislation during the week. The municipal issues before the various committees include: 

• Assembly Oversight, Reform &am...

Early Voting Legislation

On Monday, the full Assembly will be considering A-4830/S-3203, which would require the addition of in-person early voting for certain elections. In-person early voting for the May non-partisan election is permitted upon adoption of an ordinance....

Monday Vote: Urge Assemly to Vote No on A-4850 Third-Party Inspection Bill

A-4850, a bill the League opposes, is scheduled for an Assembly vote on Monday, March 1. The legislation would establish an alternate inspection process for property owners willing to pay a premium fee to expedite inspections performed b...

Your Action Needed: PFRS 20 & Out in Assembly on Monday

On Monday, the full Assembly will consider A-2562/S-1017, which permits a PFRS employee who is enrolled before or after the bill's effective date to retire, regardless of age, upon attaining 20 or more years of service credit and would allow that employee...

Feb. 26, 2022 Cannabis Update

On Monday Governor Murphy signed into law legislation legalizing and regulating cannabis use and possession for adults 21 years and older (A-21 – The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act) and decriminal...

Legislature Preview: Week of February 22

Today As of this writing, it has been announced that the Governor has signed the legislation legalizing adult recreational use of cannabis, the decriminalization of cannabis, and the clean-up legislation that addresses possession by those under 2...

Update on S-1

Since 2011, Senate President Sweeney has been advancing legislation (S-1) to encourage shared services by making various civil service reforms, but would permit the state to withhold state aid from municipalities that did not implement a shared service ag...

Legislative Alert: Help Stop Legislation With Potential Chilling Effect on Redevelopment & Affordabl

As we have previously reported, ACS A1571 & A-1576 would make any public work done on a property or premises for which a public body provides, approves or authorizes a tax abatement or tax exemption for the property or premises subject to the Prevaili...

Amended Shared Service Bill S-1 Advances

Yesterday, the Senate Budget Committee unanimously passed the Senate Committee Substitute S-1, Senate President Steve Sweeney’s Shared Service legislation. S-1 amends the “Uniformed Shared Services and Consolidation Act&rd...

Governor Murphy Signs Senate Bill 3220 Into Law

On Thursday, February 4, Governor Phil Murphy signed Senate Bill 3220 into law. This legislation allows the Civil Service Commission to exempt entry law enforcement position applicants who have successfully completed a full basic course for police officer...

Governor Murphy Announces Paycheck Protection Loan Program

On Tuesday, February 9, Governor Murphy announced that his administration will follow the lead of the Federal Government in creating a Paycheck Protection Loan Program (PPP) to be tax exempt at the state level and enable recipients to deduct business expe...

Assembly Committee Reivews Water Systems and Authorities Bill

This week, A-3142 and S-922/A-5043 were before the Assembly Special Committee on Infrastructure and Natural Resources. While S-922/A-5043 was only discussed, the committee voted to approve A-3142, sending it to second reading in the Assembly. The League o...

Assembly Committee Reivews Water Systems and Authorities Bill

This week, A-3142 and S-922/A-5043 were before the Assembly Special Committee on Infrastructure and Natural Resources. While S-922/A-5043 was only discussed, the committee voted to approve A-3142, sending it to second reading in the Assembly. The League o...

Legislation Subjecting PILOT to Prevailing Wage Advances

The Assembly Labor Committee has advanced an Assembly Committee Substitute A-1571 & A-1576.  ACS A1571 & A-1576 would make any public work done on a property or premises for which a public body provides, approves, or authorizes a tax abat...

Bill Limiting Municipal Regulation of Electric Fences Now Law

Governor Murphy, on Thursday, signed into law S-2419, which prohibits municipal regulation of “perimeter fence intrusion protection systems” (electric fence) and the regulation of locksmith and alarm businesses, among other things. Eff...

Assembly Committee to Hear Bill Limiting Appeals of Land Use Decisions

On Monday, the Assembly State and Local Government Committee will review A-4881, a bill which the League supports. A-4881 would prohibit the appeal of land use decisions on grounds attributable to convening the meeting by virtual means, provided that reas...

Governor Signs Tax Incentive Legislation

Yesterday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-4, the "New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020." The new law provides for the administration of programs and policies related to; jobs, property development, food deserts, community partner...

Cannabis Clean Up Legislation Held

Initially, both the Assembly and Senate were scheduled to consider legislation to clarify the recent cannabis legislation, A-5211/S-3320, on Monday. However, as of this afternoon, it appears the deal to legalize and decriminalize cannabis collapsed report...

Governor signs PFRS Enhanced Benefits for Surviving Spouses Act

Yesterday, Governor Murphy signed S487, the “Dominick Marino PFRS Enhanced Benefits for Surviving Spouses Act”. This legislation expands accidental death benefits provided to widow of a PFRS member. The benefit paid will now be either ...

Right to Farm Act Amended to Allow Employees to Live on Horse Farms

Governor Murphy, yesterday, signed A-2768/S-1245, which amends the “Right to Farm Act” to allow housing for equine-related farm employees.The new law requires that, notwithstanding any local health code or zoning ordinance to the contrary, the rules and r...

Police Body Camera Funding Legislation Passed

On Wednesday, December 23, Governor Murphy signed A-4907 into law, which appropriates $58 million in funding to support police departments when purchasing body cameras. While P.L. 2020, c. 142 goes a long way to help purchase body cameras, the issue of on...

Hospital Property Tax Subsidy Bill Headed to Governor

After advancing through Senate and Assembly committee hearings, yesterday both houses voted to approve A-1135/S-624 & S-357, sending the measure to the Governor’s office for his action. While the League is supportive of a legislative solutio...

Senate Passes PFRS 20 and Out Legislation

On Thursday, the Senate unanimously passed S-1017, which permits a PFRS employee who is enrolled before or after the bill's effective date to retire, regardless of age, upon attaining 20 or more years of service credit and would allow that employee to rec...

Tax Incentive Legislation Moving Quickly

Late on Wednesday, it was announced that Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney, and Assembly Speaker Coughlin reached an agreement on reforms to the tax incentive programs.According to the announcement  the agreement “includes annua...

Your Action Needed: Full Senate to Consider PFRS 20 & Out Legislation

On Thursday, the full Senate will be considering S-1017, which permits a PFRS employee who is enrolled before or after the bill's effective date to retire, regardless of age, upon attaining 20 or more years of service credit and would allow that ...

Hospital Property Tax Subsidy Bill Headed for Vote

Hospital Property Tax Subsidy Bill Headed for Vote After advancing through Senate and Assembly committee hearings, A-1135/S-624 & S-357 have been scheduled for a vote in both houses on Thursday, December 17, 2020. A-1135 was previously approved by the...

Small Cell Regulation Bill Advances

Yesterday, the Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee advanced with amendments, A-1116. The purpose of this legislation is to provide for uniform regulation of small wireless facility deployment in the State and attempts to mirror and in some...

Disabled Veterans Property Tax with Reimbursement Advances

Earlier this week the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee advanced S-220, which extends the totally disabled veterans property tax exemption to be retroactive to the effective date of the determination of the veteran’s total disability ...

Actions on Law Enforcement Body Worn Cameras

Last week, Governor Murphy signed S1163 legislation regarding the use of Body Worn Cameras for Law Enforcement and issued Executive Order 201 Establishing an Interagency Working Group on Law Enforcement Body Worn Cameras Task Force. Please see the League’...

AG Issues Marijuana Charge Guidance

Last week, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal issued additional guidance to prosecutors concerning the prosecution of low-level marijuana cases, supplementing his August 29, 2018 and November 4, 2020 guidance.The Attorney General’s guidance directs ...

Gov. Murphy Signs Plastic Ban into Law

On November 4, Governor Murphy signed into law the strictest plastic ban legislation in the United States. For more information on P.L. 2020, c.117 see our blog post. Also, we will be hosting a League Conference Session on the plastic bag ban so don’t for...

Electronic Review of Construction Permits Up for Hearing

On Monday, the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee is scheduled to consider A-1145/S-1739, which the League opposes. A-1145/S-1739 would establish an electronic permit processing review system requiring electronic submission of applications for con...

Vegetation Management Bill Advances

Yesterday, the Senate Economic Growth Committee approved S-434, known as the “Vegetation Management Response Act.” In the past, the League has opposed this and similar bills because they would give electric utility companies complete d...

Hospital Property Tax Bill Advances

Yesterday, the Assembly Appropriations Committee advanced with committee amendments A-1135, a bill which the League opposes. A-1135 seeks to address the ongoing issue of property tax exemptions for nonprofit hospitals with on-site for-profit medical provi...

Governor Takes Action on Bills

Earlier this week, Governor Phil Murphy signed two bills of interest into law – S-349 (P.L. 2020, c.80), which requires developers to offer electric vehicle charging stations as an option in certain new home construction, and S-2380 (P.L. 2020, ...

MIllioniares' Tax to Bolster State Budget

An agreement has been reached by Governor Phil Murphy and Legislative leaders on an income tax rate hike (from 8.97% to 10.75%) on earnings in excess of $1 million. The higher rate currently applies to income over $5 million. Announcing the agreement, Gov...

Governor Conditionally Vetoes CRB Bill

On July 31 Governor Murphy issued a conditional veto for A-3971, which authorizes the issuance of "coronavirus relief bonds" (CRBs) by municipalities and counties. In the conditional veto language the Governor acknowledge the need for local gove...

Governor Vetoes Bill Expanding Project Labor Agreements

On Monday Governor Murphy issued a conditional veto for S-1370, which expands the permissible use of project labor agreements for public works projects from building based public works projects to include highways, bridges, pumping stations, and water and...

Coronavirus Relief Bond Legislation Advances, Before Senate

Today the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee released S-2475/A-3971, which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” (CRB) by municipalities and counties. The legislation permits municipalities to issue bonds for th...

Legislation Requiring Health Insurance Annual Assessment Advances

Legislation that would require certain entities authorized to issue health benefits plan to annually pay an assessment of 2.75% of the entity’s’ net written premiums was amended and released from committee and now await consideration b...

Murphy Ok's COVID-19 Borrowing Bill

Yesterday, both the Assembly, by a 46-26 vote, and the Senate, by a 22-15 vote, passed the amended State COVID-19 Borrowing bill. Late yesterday Governor Murphy signed it into law. P.L. 2020, c. 60 authorizes the borrowing of up to $9.9 billion in State g...

Governor Sighs Electronic Procurement Act

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed into law the Electronic Procurement Act. P.L.  2020, c. 59 permits local governments to use an electronic construction procurement process for public works construction contracts. Rulemaking authority has been giv...

Bridge Budget Bill Introduced

Because of the extension of the State’s current Fiscal Year for an additional three months, the Legislature must pass and the Governor sign a Supplemental Appropriations bill by midnight, June 30. On Thursday, June 24, Assemblywoman Eliana Pinto...

New Law Provides Local Units with Flexibility to Waive Penalties on Overdue Sewer or Water Charges

Last Friday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-4126 (now, P.L.2020, c.39), which gives municipalities, counties, and utility authorities the ability to waive interest and lien enforcement for certain delinquent water and sewer utility payments during emer...

Assembly Approves Bill Decriminalizing Small Amounts of Marijuana

Yesterday, the Assembly passed A-1897 which aims to decriminalize marijuana and promote awareness of the expungement process. The bill would replace arrests for possessing up to two ounces of marijuana or hashish with a civil fine of $50. A-1897 would als...

Legislature Focuses on State Three-Month Budget Plan

Yesterday in Trenton, the Assembly Budget Committee heard testimony from the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services’ Budget and Finance Officer, Frank Haines, and State Treasurer, Elizabeth Maher Muoio, regarding Governor Murphy’s ...

Gov. Signs Legislation Setting 2020 Tax Appeal Date

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed into law A-4157, which extends the statutory deadline to file a property tax appeal from May 1, 2020 to July 1, 2020 and provides the County Board of Taxation until September 30, 2020 to render a decision on a tax...

Your Action Needed on COVID-19 Bonding

On Thursday the Assembly passed by a vote of 57-20 A-3971 which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” by municipalities and counties. Specifically, A-3971 permits municipalities to issue bonds for the loss of revenue an...

Gov. Signs States of Emergency Law Addressing Timeframes & Deadlines

On May 15 Governor Murphy signed A-3969/S-2392 into law. P.L. 2020, c. 34 provides for local government flexibility with regard to various timeframes, deadlines, and other statutory requirements in order to help them continue to function and meet their ob...

Division Issues Information on 2021 Financial Disclosure Statement Filing

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2021-08 providing guidance on filing the 2021 Financial Disclosure Statements.

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2021-08 providing guidance on filing the 2021 Financial Disclosure Statements. The Local Finance Notice outlines the filing procedures and contains specific step-by-step instruction...

Expanded Earned Income Tax Credit Program

Beginning with the 2020 tax filing New Jersey’s Earned Income Tax Credit (NJEITC) is increasing to 40% of the federal credit an average of $882 as well as lowering the minimum age eligibility for EITC from 25 to 21 years of age.

On National Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day, the New Jersey Department of Treasury launched a statewide awareness campaign to encourage eligible taxpayers to take advantage of New Jersey’s expanded program. Beginning with the 2020 tax fil...

NJ Infrastructure Bank 2021 Webinar

The New Jersey Infrastructure Bank will be holding webinars on April 22, 2021, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and April 29, 2021, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The New Jersey Infrastructure Bank will be holding webinars on April 22, 2021, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and April 29, 2021, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The webinars will discuss program and financing changes coming in State Fiscal Year 2022 Program Fin...

League Educational Foundation & Walmart Announce Grant Recipients

Recently Walmart provided a grant of $100,000 to the League Foundation. Their wish was to help address educational connectivity issues. After careful review, the NJLM Foundation has awarded first-round grants.

The League’s Educational Foundation is an informational resource for local government that offers timely research and a proactive approach to resolving the complex issues affecting NJ’s diverse communities. We bring together m...

Expanded Earned Income Tax Credit Program

On national Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day, the New Jersey Department of Treasury launched a statewide awareness campaign to encourage eligible taxpayers to take advantage of New Jersey’s expanded program.

On national Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day, the New Jersey Department of Treasury launched a statewide awareness campaign to encourage eligible taxpayers to take advantage of New Jersey’s expanded program. Beginning with the 2020 tax fil...

NJ Supreme Court Decision Could Impact Municipal Employment Policies

The New Jersey Supreme Court released a decision this week that could have an impact on municipalities as an employer. Delanoy v. Twp. of Ocean considered for the first time the New Jersey Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA).

The New Jersey Supreme Court released a decision this week that could have an impact on municipalities as an employer. Delanoy v. Twp. of Ocean considered for the first time the New Jersey Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA). The PWFA amended existing po...

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Issues Emergency Directive

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) partners have observed active exploitation of vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange on-premises products.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) partners have observed active exploitation of vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange on-premises products. Please review CISA issued ED 21-02 for Microsoft Exchange on-premises products to update ...

Campaign Contribution Notice

Please Note on Campaign Contributions: “No holder of a public office or position shall demand payment or contribution from another holder of a public office or position for the campaign purposes of any candidate or for the use of any political party.”

The New Jersey Division of Elections has requested we share the following information on Campaign Contributions for the particular attention of each Municipal Clerk. Questions and inquiries for additional information should be directed to the Div...

"Get Covered New Jersey" Insurance Open Enrollment

Governor Murphy recently announced that New Jersey residents will be able to enroll in Get Covered New Jersey starting November 1, 2020, and through to January 31, 2021, extending six weeks longer than it was last year.

Governor Murphy recently announced that New Jersey residents will be able to enroll in Get Covered New Jersey starting November 1, 2020, and through to January 31, 2021, extending six weeks longer than it was last year.Get Covered New Jersey is a new heal...

DLGS Issue LFN on Recent Tax Collection & Appeals Legislation

DLGS issued LFN 2020-25 explaining recently enacted legislation on property tax collection, tax appeals refunds, and the waiver of interest and lien enforcement for certain delinquent water and sewer utility payments during emergency circumstances.

The Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2020-25 explaining recently enacted legislation pertaining to property tax collection, tax appeals refunds, and the waiver of interest and lien enforcement for certain delinquent water ...

NJ Hall of Fame Holds Induction Ceremony Sunday

On Sunday, 7 PM the NJ Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be broadcast WWOR my9, NJTV, nj.com, and the NJ Hall of Fame Facebook and YouTube pages.

On Sunday, 7 PM the NJ Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be broadcast WWOR my9, NJTV, nj.com and the NJ Hall of Fame Facebook and YouTube pages. The following will be inducted. The hometown for each inductee is included in case you would like ...

US Conference of Mayors Partnering with National Restaurant Association for Webinar

The National Restaurant Association is partnering with the US Conference of Mayors to host a webinar, “What Will Your City Be Like Without Restaurants?”

The National Restaurant Association is partnering with the US Conference of Mayors to host a webinar, “What Will Your City Be Like Without Restaurants?” They will discuss the challenges that the restaurant industry is facing a...

University of Albany Creates Survey to Help Build Smart Communities

The University of Albany released a survey aimed at understanding the relationship between public libraries and the implementation of smart technology to benefit the local governments and their communities.

Earlier this week, The University of Albany released a survey aimed at understanding the relationship between public libraries and the implementation of smart technology into our communities. The survey consists of 60 questions that will take no more than...

Appellate Division Rules Certain Employee Settlement Agreements Exempt from OPRA

The Appellate Division issued a decision regarding OPRA, holding that a settlement agreement between a public body and its employee, resolving an internal disciplinary action against that employee, is exempt from disclosure as a personnel record.

Last week, the Appellate Division issued a notable decision regarding the Open Public Records Act (OPRA). In Libertarians for Transparent Government v. Cumberland County the court held that a settlement agreement between a public body and its employee, re...

State Expands Voter Tools

The Division of Elections has launched the state’s first online voter registration tool as well as functionality to let voters track their mail-in ballot.

The Division of Elections has launched the state’s first online voter registration tool as well as functionality to let voters track their mail-in ballot.To register online, individuals will need their date of birth and one of the following form...

Juneteenth a State Holiday

Governor Murphy signed, S-19, (now, P.L.2020, c.76), designating Juneteenth, the third Thursday in June, as a state and public holiday. New Jersey is the sixth state to designate Juneteenth a state holiday.

Yesterday, Governor Murphy signed, S-19, (now, P.L.2020, c.76), designating Juneteenth, the third Thursday in June, as a state and public holiday. The legislation adds Juneteenth as a paid holiday for all State government employees. New Jersey is the sixt...

NJ Dept. of Agriculture Shares Spotted Lanterfly Fight Resources

New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas Fisher has shared information and instructions for residents who encounter the Spotted Lanternfly as the Department continues to receive numerous calls about this exotic invasive insect.

New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas Fisher has shared information and instructions for residents who encounter the Spotted Lanternfly as the Department continues to receive numerous calls about this exotic invasive insect. The Departmen...

2020 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program Funding Opportunity

Applications are now being accepted for the 2020 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2020 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program. This solicitation is administered by NJDOT in partnership with the NJTPA and the other MPO’s. The TA Set-Aside program provides federal funds for com...

BPU Seeking Comments on Improvements to ESIP Program

This week the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) announced that they are seeking comments and hosting stakeholder meetings, looking to evaluate and refresh the Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP).

This week the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) announced that they are seeking comments and hosting stakeholder meetings, looking to evaluate and refresh the Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP). The goal of the review is to improve the overall proces...

Applications Now Being Accepted for Small Landlord Emergency Grant Program

The application portal for the Small Landlord Emergency Grant (SLEG) Program opened and the NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) began accepting applications, the closing date is August 26 at 1 p.m.

This week, the application portal for the Small Landlord Emergency Grant (SLEG) Program opened and the NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) began accepting applications. The program will reimburse small residential rental property owners for lo...

LFN Issued on Federal Federal Debarment-Consequences for Certain Public Works Contracts

The Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance 2020-18 regarding Federal Debarment – Consequences for Certain Public Works Contracts.

Yesterday, the Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance 2020-18 regarding Federal Debarment – Consequences for Certain Public Works Contracts. Under P.L. 2019, c. 406 a contractor or any affiliates are prohibited from contracti...

NJ HMFA Launches Small Landlord Emergency Relief Grant Program

This week the NJ HMFA announced the Small Landlord Emergency Grant Program. Rental property owners will be reimbursed for lost rent revenue due to COVID-19 April-July 2020, if they forgive outstanding back rent/late fees tenants accrued during this time.

This week the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (HMFA) announced the Small Landlord Emergency Grant Program (SLEG). As a reminder, the program will reimburse residential rental property owners for lost rent revenue due to COVID-19 between Apr...

Request from NJ Film Commission

The New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission is hoping you will assist in enabling crews to work within your jurisdiction. Production companies can provide a much-needed boost to your businesses, and put people back to work.

Dear Mayor:I write to you today as a Mayor, the 1^st Vice President of the League, and a member of the New Jersey Film Commission.As you may know, the New Jersey film and television industry has blossomed in recent years, creating over $400 million of reve...

Share Your Story

The League’s magazine, NJ Municipalities, is preparing its fall issues and seeking editorial content. Reach out to share your ideas today!

The League’s magazine, NJ Municipalities, is preparing its fall issues and is seeking editorial content.

NJ Municipalities is published monthly from October through June. The circulation consists of New Jersey municipal officials and staff, state...

DCA Announces COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Enrollment Period

DCA’s COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program will provide temporary rental assistance to low and moderate-income households that have had a substantial reduction in income or became unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Department of Community Affair’s COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program (CVERAP) will provide temporary rental assistance to low and moderate-income households that have had a substantial reduction in income or became unemployed due to the...

Conference Center Preparations

The League is taking measures along with our partners at the Atlantic City Convention Center and all related service providers to follow CDC and NJDOH guidelines to create a safe and healthy Annual League Conference.

We are busy making arrangements for this live event including education and exhibits with the full expectation that by November the State will permit important gatherings of government officials like the Annual League Conference. 

The League is ta...

Share the Message: MunisAreEssential

NJLM has launched the MunisAreEssential campaign responding to COVID-19 impacted budget shortfalls for local governments. Contact your state and federal legislators to support revenue shortfall funding/tools and educate your citizens on local budgets.

The League has launched the MunisAreEssential campaign in response to budget shortfalls local governments are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is encouraging local officials to contact their state and federal legislators to support bills tha...

League Officers' Statement on Race Equity and Leadership

As NJLM's Officers, we feel the anguish of George Floyd. We promise to stand against all forms of racism. We share the outrage of the thousands who have gathered in the streets. We promise to support peaceful protest and not to let this moment pass.

June 8, 2020

League Officers’ Statement on Race Equity and Leadership

Dear Mayor:

All of us get involved in municipal government because we care, deeply, about the communities we live in. We want to preserve the positive accomplishments of our pred...

COVID Bond Bill Clears NJ Assembly; NJLM Committee Set to Review Legislation

The Assembly approved A-4175, the “NJ COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act," authorizing the issuance of $5 billion in bonds, application for federal stimulus bonds, and other efforts. NJLM President Perry has appointed a special committee to review and advise.

Yesterday, the State Assembly approved A-4175, the “New Jersey COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act,’’ by a vote of 51-28. This bill authorizes the issuance of $5 billion in State general obligation bonds to be used in respon...

DEP Adopts Clean Drinking Water Rules

NJ DEP has adopted rules requiring operators of public water systems to begin testing for PFOA and PFOS chemicals. NJ drinking water and groundwater can have a maximum contaminant level of 14 parts per trillion for PFOA and 13 parts per trillion for PFOS.

On Monday, the Department of Environmental Protection adopted rules requiring all operators of public water systems to begin testing for PFOA and PFOS chemicals. Under the new rules, drinking water and groundwater in New Jersey can have a maximum contamin...

Adjustments to Public Bidding Thresholds

Effective July 1, the Local Public Contracts Law bid threshold increases for municipalities with Qualified Purchasing Agents to $44,000 from $40,000. If the municipality does not have a Qualified Purchasing Agent the bid threshold remains at $17,500.

Effective July 1, 2020, the Local Public Contracts Law bid threshold increases for municipalities with Qualified Purchasing Agents to $44,000 from $40,000. If the municipality does not have a Qualified Purchasing Agent the bid threshold remains at $17,500...

Are You Ready for Police & Fire Contract Negotiations?

Having the right data can help to negotiate agreements that better serve the interests of your local residents and businesses. Many questions on Police and Fire contracts can be answered through the League’s Police and Fire Labor Data Service.

Could different contract provisions increase efficiency in your fire services? Is there a way to provide more effective policing, while lowering costs? And how much do your neighbors pay for police and fire protection? The answers to these questions can h...

NJ Brownfields Assistance Center @ NJIT

New Jersey Institute of Technology has created the New Jersey Brownfields Assistance Center @ NJIT. The Center provides FREE assistance to NJ municipalities and counties that are pursuing brownfields cleanup and reuse.

New Jersey Institute of Technology has created the New Jersey Brownfields Assistance Center @ NJIT. The Center provides FREE assistance to NJ municipalities and counties that are pursuing brownfields cleanup and reuse.

Contact them at NJBrownfields@njit.ed...

MEL Safety Institute CV-19 Resources

The MEL Safety Director’s office has created a central repository on the NJ MEL website for updated COVID-19 information specific to municipal operations, including several bulletins addressing specific subject areas during the COVID-19 pandemic

The MEL Safety Director’s office has created a central repository on the NJ MEL website for updated COVID-19 information specific to municipal operations, including several bulletins addressing specific subject areas during the COVID-19 pandemic...

National Guidance at Your Fingertips

Local leaders are on the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the National League of Cities website, you will find tools and best practices, updates on federal guidance, and other critical information to help with local preparedness and response.

Local leaders are on the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic. On their website, you will find National League of Cities generated tools and best practices, updates on federal guidance, resources from the state municipal leagues around the country and from...

Correct Version of the State Flag

The League would like to encourage municipalities to purchase the correct version of the State flag. The underskirts of the goddesses are silver as set forth by the NJ legislature in 1928. Non-approved versions show the underskirts incorrectly in blue.

The League would like to encourage municipalities to purchase the correct version of the State flag.On behalf of the New Jersey State Treasury Printing Service, we are distributing this information so that municipalities will be aware of the correct and a...

Appellate Division Rules Certain Employee Settlement Agreements Exempt from OPRA

Last week, the Appellate Division issued a notable decision regarding the Open Public Records Act (OPRA). In Libertarians for Transparent Government v. Cumberland County the court held that a settlement agreement between a public body and its employee, re...

Governor Signs 20 and Out Legislation

On Monday, Governor Murphy signed into law P.L. 2021, c. 52 which permits police and firefighters to retire after 20 years of service regardless of age and receive a pension allowance equal to 50% of their final compensation. This benefit will only apply ...

Police and Fire Retirement (PFRS) Board Meeting

At the April 12 Police and Fire Retirement (PFRS) board meeting, the PFRS Board’s Investment Committee noted they were reviewing the illiquid assets in the portfolio and status of comingled accounts.The Board favorably reported on the recommenda...

Local Part PERS Legislation Advances

Early this week legislation sponsored by Senate President Sweeney that would divide the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) into two parts: a State PERS for state employees and a Local PERS for all other employees (S-3522) was considered and releas...

Your Action Needed: PFRS 20 & Out in Assembly on Monday

On Monday, the full Assembly will consider A-2562/S-1017, which permits a PFRS employee who is enrolled before or after the bill's effective date to retire, regardless of age, upon attaining 20 or more years of service credit and would allow that employee...

Governor signs PFRS Enhanced Benefits for Surviving Spouses Act

Yesterday, Governor Murphy signed S487, the “Dominick Marino PFRS Enhanced Benefits for Surviving Spouses Act”. This legislation expands accidental death benefits provided to widow of a PFRS member. The benefit paid will now be either 70% of the compensat...

Are You Ready for Police & Fire Contract Negotiations?

Could different contract provisions increase efficiency in your fire services? Is there a way to provide more effective policing, while lowering costs? And how much do your neighbors pay for police and fire protection? The answers to these questions can h...

Amended Shared Service Bill S-1 Advances

Yesterday, the Senate Budget Committee unanimously passed the Senate Committee Substitute S-1, Senate President Steve Sweeney’s Shared Service legislation. S-1 amends the “Uniformed Shared Services and Consolidation Act” and the laws governing th...

Legislature Preview: Week of February 22

Today As of this writing, it has been announced that the Governor has signed the legislation legalizing adult recreational use of cannabis, the decriminalization of cannabis, and the clean-up legislation that addresses possession by those under 2...