News Flash

Email Poll on Federal Assistance

Please take a minute to let us know …If your municipality does not receive direct financial assistance from the Federal government, what will that mean to your residents and your business community?Please email responses to jmoran@njlm.org.Plea...

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...

Week of May 11 COVID-19 Update

Today the Governor announced that an additional 1,297 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 143,905. He also announced another 201 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 10,138.  

New hospitalizations conti...

Call to Action: Assembly Passes A-3971

Yesterday 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 and/...

Permit Extension Legislation Awaits Governor's Action

Yesterday, the State Senate and the Assembly approved A-3919/S-2346. This legislation extends certain permits, approvals, and deadlines during the COVID-19 emergency, including timeframes for action required under the municipal land use law (MLUL).Specifi...

2020 Tax Appeal Date Bill Awaits Gov's Signature

Yesterday both the Assembly and Senate unanimously approved A-4157/S-2387, 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 d...

Senate OKs Civil Service Transfers During States of Emergency Bill

Yesterday the Senate unanimously approved S-2477, which would permit State and local government employees in civil service to be transferred under certain circumstances. The legislation, which the League supports, awaits consideration by the Assembly.

S-24...

Timeline, Deadline Bills on Governor's Desk

Yesterday both the Assembly, by a vote of 70-6, and the Senate, by a vote of 37-1, passed A-3969/S-2392, which provides for local government flexibility with regard to various timeframes, deadlines, and other statutory requirements in order to he...

HEROES Act Includes Hometown Help

On Wednesday, Jerome Powell, Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, raised the specter of a devastating multiyear recession if Congress and the White House do not authorize more aid to address the COVID pandemic’s economic fallout. “Ad...

Governor Relaxes Some Retail, Construction, and Social Event Restrictions

Governor Murphy has issued Executive Order 142, which pulls back some of the restrictions previously placed on nonessential retail businesses, construction projects, and social events.  EO 142 permits the resumption of nonessential construction, ...

HEROES Act Would Aid All NJ Municipalities

Yesterday in Washington, The Chairs of 12 key House Committees, including New Jersey Congressman Frank Pallone, introduced legislation that would, in addition to several other items, provide substantial, flexible, and assured funding to every municipality...

Register Now: NLC Events May 12 and 13

Our Federal Partners at the National League of Cities (NLC) have scheduled three learning opportunities this week, meant to help local officials navigate the recovery. Here they are.

a. WEBINAR | Doubling Down on an Equitable and Resilient Recovery | Tuesd...

NJ Supreme Court Issues MLUL Ruling

Earlier this week, the New Jersey Supreme Court issued its opinion in Shipyard Associates, LP v. City of Hoboken, a case the League participated in as amicus curiae. This case deals principally with two issues related to the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL)....

Senate Budget Committee Releases S-2387

Yesterday the Senate Budget Committee released S-2387, which extends the statutory deadline to file a property tax appeal from May 1 to July 1 and provides the County Board of Taxation until September 30 to render a decision on a tax appeal. The deadline ...

Urging Support for A-3971/S-2475 Permissive COVID-19 Reflief Bills

Yesterday the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee released A-3971 which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” by municipalities and counties. Specifically, A-3971 permits municipalities to issu...

Week of May 4 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor announced an additional 1,827 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 133,635. He also announced another 254 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 8,801.There were 325 new hospitalizations an...

Call to Action: NLC Cities Are Essential Campaign

Please act on this important communication and call to action from the NJLM national affiliate, the National League of Cities.  Help amplify the message that cities are essential and require direct federal economic relief.

Cities Are Essential. Jo...

U.S. Treasury Guidance Allows CARES Flexibility

Yesterday, the U.S. Treasury updated its Frequently Asked Questions CARES Act guidance. This revision will provide CARES Act recipient States (including New Jersey), and recipient units of local government (including New Jersey’s nine most popul...

NLC "Cities are Essential" Campaign Calls for Direct Municipal Aid

Today, the National League of Cities, our federal level partner and the voice of the over 19,000 cities, towns and villages in the United States, launched a campaign to secure economic relief for all communities on the frontline of America’s res...

Upcoming Legislative Briefings on A-3971 for Coronavirus Relief Bonds

Mayors Keith Kazmark of Woodland Park, Colleen Mahr of Fanwood, and Matt Moench of Bridgewater invite you, your business administrators, and your chief financial officers to a panel discussion on prospective legislation (A-3971) that would permit counties...

Mayors to Discuss COVID Response in Mayors Wellness Campaign Webinar

Mayors Wellness Campaign Webinar

The Community Response to COVID-19 from 2 NJ Mayors

Thursday, May 7th, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. EST

Featured Speakers: Mayor Sara Todisco of Garwood and Mayor Andre Sayegh of Paterson

You Will Learn: 

• &nbs...

Week of April 27 COVID-19 Roundup

Yesterday, the Governor announced that an additional 2,633 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 118, 652. He also announced another 460 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 7,228 and 6,137 patients that were hos...

Electronic Submission & Signature of Initiatives & Referenda Focus of EO 132

Yesterday, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 132, allowing electronic petition submission and signature collection for initiatives and referenda. The Order requires county and municipal clerks to accept, in addition to hand delivery, electronic submi...

Gov. Murphy OK's May 2 Park Reopening

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 133 that will reopen golf courses and State parks for passive recreational activities effective Saturday, May 2 beginning at 6:00 a.m. The Executive Order details the activities that are permissive and proh...

Possible Help for Seasonal Businesses

If your municipality hosts seasonal businesses, you might want to share this information with them.

 The U. S. Department of the Treasury has issued final interim rules, effective immediately, designed to allow seasonal businesses to apply for for...

Additional Federal Resources for Local Citizens & Businesses

Please share this as you see fit.Any individuals or families waiting for their Economic Impact Payments–the stimulus checks that most are entitled to–should visit the IRS “getmypayment” site. They may need to file a...

New Federal Help for Local Businesses

On April 24, 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act of 2020 was signed into law. The new law expands and modifies the significant new resources for businesses from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) that were estab...

EO 129 Extends Retired Officer Carry Permits, Allows Range Access

Yesterday the Governor issued Executive Order 129 extending Retired Officer Carry Permits that expired during the Public Health Emergency until 90 days after the end of the Public Health Emergency. However, the retired officer must submit their renewal ap...

Property Tax Payment Grace Period Gets Executive Order

Governor Murphy has issued Executive Order 130, which permits a governing body to adopt a resolution extending the grace period for the May 1 property tax payment. The grace period cannot go later than June 1, 2020. A copy of the resolution must be filed ...

Governor’s Office Briefing Calls for Mayors

The Governor’s office is hosting Mayor calls throughout the week. They ask that Mayors especially make every effort to call in as it’s the most effective way to direct important information to Mayors and receive Mayors’ input...

Update on Federal Efforts to Aid Municipalities

We want to thank Congressman Andy Kim, who is the latest – but hopefully not the last – member of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation to sign-on as a cosponsor of H.R. 6467, the Coronavirus Community Relief Act (CCRA). This bill wo...

Clarification on Essential Businesses Issued

Yesterday State Director of Emergency Management Patrick Callahan issued Administrative Order 2020-10 providing clarification on essential businesses. The order expands essential businesses to include pet grooming, pet daycare, pet boarding, and stores th...

Upcoming 2nd Quarter Property Tax Payment

For the past several weeks we have been receiving numerous inquiries regarding the upcoming 2nd Quarter Property Tax payment. To date, there has been no administrative or legislative action to extend the May 1 property tax payment date. We have issued an ...

Urgent Alert: NLC Update Call for New Jersey

Your New Jersey League of Municipalities is a key member, with all other state Leagues, in the National League of Cities (NLC).

Through that membership, NLC will be launching state calls to share the latest federal updates/insights, and hear questions and ...

Week of April 20 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday the Governor announced that there were 4,247 additional positive results since the day before, and 307 deaths attributed to COVID-19. That brings the statewide totals to 99,989 positive results and 5,368 COVID-19 related deaths.  

The Go...

Municipal Courts Get OK to Resume from NJ Supreme Court Order

Today, the New Jersey Supreme Court issued an Order that allows municipal court sessions to resume, to the extent possible based on facilities, technology, and other resources. Municipal court sessions had been suspended through April 26, 2020, c...

Local Governments Seek Support, Flexibility in Next Federal COVID-19 Bill

When Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act - $2.2 Trillion CARES Act - it included a $150 Billion State and Local Stabilization Fund. Minus funding for U.S. Territories, and autonomous Tribal Governments, about $139 Billio...

IRS issues notice on Scams & Homeland Security Warns on Disinformation

The individual and family ‘economic impact payments’ that come as a part of the CARES Act are going out to Federal Income Taxpayers and others, all around the country. Inevitably, scammers see this as a once in a lifetime opportunity.

T...

FCC Boradband Funding, Webinar Move Ahead

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is moving ahead with its Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) and Rural 5G Fund proceedings. The purpose of these programs is to encourage the development of infrastructure necessary within rural areas to ensur...

Register Now: NJLM Mini Conference Goes Online for 2020

The NJLM Online Mini-Conference is now open for registration. The Conference will take place over June 10, 11, and 12, 2020 and offer 12 different webinars for attendees to join for one low price. CEUs are available for Finance Officers, Tax Collectors, P...

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...

Washington Needs to Recognize Municipal Efforts

At this time–and it could change in a heartbeat–it seems that aid to New Jersey municipalities will not be included in the compromise legislation being negotiated in Washington. There appears to be strong opposition coming from Senate ...

Sustainablity Summit Moved to Virtual Content Offerings

In order to adhere to current public health standards and social distancing guidelines, Sustainable Jersey has canceled the June 12 Sustainability Summit. Instead, they are offering four weeks of FREE virtual “Summit-like" content from Apri...

Week of April 12 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday the Governor announced that there were 4,391 additional positive results since the day before, and 362 deaths attributed to COVID-19. That brings the statewide totals to 75,317 positive results and 3,518 COVID-19 related deaths.  &n...

Week of April 12 Bills Signed Into Law

Earlier this week both Houses of the State Legislature met virtually and sent a number of bills to the Governor. The Governor took action a number of these bills.

Please see the League’s April 17 Town Crier blog post for a breakdown of these new ...

ABC Extends Retail License Terms

Earlier this week, Acting Director James Graziano of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (Division) issued an Order extending the term of the 2019-2020 retail consumption and distribution license.  The Order extends both municipality- and ...

League Officers Urge State Leaders to Remember Local Budgets

Yesterday, your League Officers – President Jim Perry, Committeeman, Hardwick; First Vice President Janice Kovach, Mayor, Clinton; Second Vice President Bill Chegwidden, Mayor, Wharton; and Third Vice President Sue Howard, Mayor, Monmouth Beach ...

Congress Considers Local Aid Bills

Legislation has been introduced in both Houses of Congress to provide COVID-19 impact assistance to all New Jersey municipalities. League Officers have sent letters and e-mails to all the Members of our New Jersey Congressional Delegation, urging them to ...

Resolution & Options for Changing Delinquent Property Taxes Interest

As we approach the May 1 property tax deadline, we would like to advise you of options currently available to you to assist property owners facing fiscal challenges. 

N.J.S.A. 54:4-67 permits municipal governing bodies to establish the rate of int...

COVID-19 Response Legislation for First Responders and Local Governments

Yesterday, the Legislature acted on a number of COVID-19 response bills, including these.

S-2351/A-3924 – Protects paid and volunteer members of first aid, rescue, and ambulance squads from termination, dismissal, or suspension by an employer for...

OPRA Recommendations Issued by GRC, DLGS

The Government Records Council (GRC) has issued a Special Statement regarding P.L. 2020, c.10 and COVID-19 impacts on the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and offering guidance for records custodians dealing with requests during these unpr...

Primary Election Day Moved to July 7

Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 120 moving the June primary election from June 2, 2020 to Tuesday, July 7, 2020. In addition, any election scheduled between May 13, 2020 and July 7, 2020 is postponed and rescheduled to July 7, 2020. All statutory d...

Congress Introduces CCRA, & FCC, DOL Developments

Yesterday in the House of Representatives, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse, a member of the Speaker’s leadership team, introduced legislation that would allocate $250 Billion in emergency funding to communities with populations under 500,000. Th...

May Election School District Deadlines Extended

As a result of changing the April school board elections to May, yesterday Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 116, extending certain statutory deadlines for school districts with elections postponed until May. The executive order extends the statutory...

LEAP Grant Application Period Extended

Division of Local Government Services has extended the application periods for two LEAP (Local efficiency Achievement Program) grants – LEAP Challenge and County Coordinator Fellowship Grants.The application period for both initially expired on ...

Gov. Issues EO 115 Permitting Retirees' Return to Public Employment

Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 115 permitting retirees to return to public employment as part-time, full-time, or special law enforcement for the duration of the public health emergency.The Executive Order, which took effect immediately, permits r...

Smaller Municipalities Seek Federal Support

As you know, the CARES Bill left in doubt federal financial support for municipalities below an arbitrary 500,000 population threshold. Last Thursday, 128 Members of the House sent a ‘Members Letter’ to Speaker Nancy Pelosi urging cons...

Local Governments Get Ok for Further Restrictions on Short-Term Stays

Over the weekend, the Governor issued Administrative Order 2020-08, which authorizes local governments to impose additional restrictions on hotels, motels, guest houses, and private residences for certain guests or seasonal tenants.Contact: Michael F. Cer...

Call for Volunteers in Healthcare for COVID-19 Response

We ask that you help get the word out on the need for qualified health, mental health, and related professionals to supplement our health care capacity on a temporary basis. The Governor’s Executive Order 112 permits doctors that are retired or ...

COVID-19 Rundown: Week of March 30

Yesterday Governor Murphy announced there were 3,489 additional positive results since the day before and 182 deaths. That brings the statewide totals to 25,590 positive results and 537 COVID-19 related deaths. The negative cases are 33,520. These results...

Joint Federal-State COVID-19 Task Force Formed to Stop Misconduct

U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Craig Carpenito, New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal, and New Jersey Acting State Comptroller Kevin D. Walsh have announced the formation of a joint federal-state task force to investigate and prosecute a wide range o...

Clarification of Business Operations & Additional Business Added as Essential Under EO 107

Governor Murphy and State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan, this week, enacted Administrative Order 2020-06 amending which businesses are permitted to operate and clarifying ways in which some businesses may operate in accordance with Executive Order No. 1...

Crisis Communications to Crush the Curve

We know how you are rising above the current chaos to continue to serve your citizens. Federal experts estimate that the Country could see between 100,000 and 200,000 deaths before this is through. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If people a...

Power Companies Review Hospital Circuits

New Jersey’s utility providers are taking additional steps to assure power supply to hospitals, medical and care facilities which are so important as part of the COVID-19 response.

Based on conference calls and phone calls, they have advised that...

Urgent Effort: Securing Fedal Funding of all NJ Municipalities

Our partners at the National League of Cities (NLC) have launched an effort to secure CARES Act funding for all COVID-19 impacted municipalities, regardless of size.  NLC Executive Director Clarence Anthony has written to U.S. Treasurer Steve Mnu...

State Budget & Income Tax Deadline Extension

This morning, Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Coughlin issued the following joint statement, “The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused hardships, financial strain, and disruptions for many New Jerseyans and New Jer...

Time-Senstive Response: Fiscal Impact of Pandemic on Municipalities

The National League of Cities and United States Conference of Mayors have worked together to develop a short, easy-to-complete survey to all municipalities to demonstrate the direct fiscal impact of the pandemic on municipal governments of all sizes.&...

April 1 Is Census Day

See a video message from National League of Cities CEO & Executive Director on the importance of Census Day.

Cerra Named Next NJLM Executive Director

April 1, 2020

League of Municipalities Selects New Executive Director

The New Jersey State League of Municipalities Executive Board yesterday unanimously announced the selection of Mike Cerra as the new executive director of the statewide local government a...

Clarification of Business Operations and Additional Businesses Added as Essential under EO 107

Governor Murphy and State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan, yesterday, enacted Administrative Order 2020-06 amending which businesses are permitted to operate and clarifying ways in which some businesses may operate in accordance with Executive Or...

CARES Bill Follow-up

The $2 Trillion aid package passed last week in Washington will do a lot of good. But for the State of New Jersey and for New Jersey municipalities preparing their budget, at a time when all face almost certain revenue losses, more will need to be done. P...

NJEDA Grants and Loans Available for Small Businesses

Last week the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced small business initiatives providing grants and loans for small businesses. For more information on the various programs available to small and medium-size businesses and non-profit...

Enhancing Liquidity in the Municipal Debt Market

The Division of Local Government Services notified Chief Financial Officers of new State and Federal programs related to enhancing liquidity in the municipal debt market. On the federal level, the Federal Reserve has expanded the Money Market Liquidity Ma...

COVID-19 Update Week of March 22

Yesterday, Governor Murphy announced that the statewide total of confirmed positive test results for the coronavirus was 6,876. Unfortunately, the Governor also reported that are now 81 fatalities associated with the virus. Both numbers are likely to incr...

Guidance on Fire Code Enforcement Issued

The State Division of Fire Safety has issued operational guidance for local enforcing agencies, providing them with information and suggestions and how fire code enforcement operations should proceed during the COVID-19 pandemic.Some of the suggestions of...

CY 2020/SFY2021 State Aid Remains Flat

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2020-08 noting that no municipality will receive less total State formula aid in CY2020/FY2021 than it received last year. However, the Division does not that the proposed budget se...

Federal CARES Act Analysis Continues

On Wednesday, we posted a preliminary analysis of S.3548, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) on our Towne Crier blog. The bill passed the Senate, late Wednesday night. The House just passed the bill as well. As our analysis...

CARES Act Preliminary Snapshot

See our Town Crier blog for a preliminary rundown on some of the items included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the CARES bill), which the Senate passed overnight. This is the 3rd emergency supplemental measure being passed by C...

A Message from the National League of Cities

Our national counterpart, NLC, conducted two important surveys over the past week–one asking city leaders about their responses to the health crisis and another in partnership with Morning Consult asking 2,200+ U.S. adults about tough decisions ...

NJ Received Major Disaster Declaration

President Donald J. Trump has issued a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of New Jersey. The declaration will provide federal assistance to supplement statewide recovery efforts affected by the COVID-19 pandemic beginning on January 20, 2020. Govern...

COVID-19: Free Informational Webinar

COVID Update: Municipal Guidance and Update on LegislationThursday, March 26, 20203:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.Location: Your Computer

We expect a series of new guidance documents from the Division of Local Government Services. At the same time the Legislature is wo...

State Freezes Spending

State Treasurer Muoio issued a new voluntary disclosure statement to bond holders providing detail on the potential impact COVID-19 may have on the State’s finances, including revenue collection and pension fund contributions. The disclosure sta...

Order Expands Essential Retail & Addresses Boardwalk/Beach Access

Colonel Callahan, in his role as State Director of Emergency Management, issued an Administrative Order expanding the essential retail businesses to include the following:

• Mobile phone retail and repair shops
• Bicycle shops, but only to provide service and r...

Guidance on Budget Deadline Extension, Levy Cap Exemption, and Tax Bills

In response to COVID-19 the Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2020-07 providing emergency budget, levy cap exemption, tax bill and depositing fund guidance. Please see our blog post for information. We strongly rec...

Contact Your Washington Representatives: COVID-19 Emergency Bill

Late last night, we received word that a final deal has been reached on the 3rd emergency supplemental measure in response to COVID-19. If late night reports are accurate, the deal completely eliminates direct stabilization aid to municipal governments, w...

DLGS Provides Additional Guidance on Hosting Remote Public Meetings

In light of the need to maintain social distancing to avoid the spread of COVID-19, along with Governor Murphy’s Executive Order 107, local governments have been encouraged to host remote public meetings. However, many municipalities are unfamil...

First Responders' COVID-19 Training Online

Yesterday, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) launched a new website with important educational resources for Coronavirus workers dealing with the spread of COVID-19. The initiative got underway after Congress passed a supplemental appropriation of $...

White House COVID-19 Briefing Scheduled

On Wednesday, March 25, at 1:00 PM ET, U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams and Senior Administration Officials will conduct a briefing call on COVID-19 (coronavirus). The purpose of this call is to provide State and local elected officials with up-to-date i...

Bill Permits DLGS Director to Extend Deadlines Before Assembly

Tomorrow, the Assembly will be considering A-3902, which permits extension of certain deadlines applicable to local government units under emergency circumstances. Specifically, A-3902 would authorize the Director of the Division of Local Government Servi...

March 23, 2020 Daily COVID-19 Update

At a 12 noon press conference today, Governor Murphy indicated there are 935 new reported positive tests for coronavirus since yesterday, with 7 additional deaths. This brings the statewide total to 2,844 positive results statewide and 27 deaths. He also ...

Additional COVID-19 Executive Orders Issued

Governor Murphy has issued two new Executive Orders. The first Executive Order 107 ordering all New Jersey residents to remain at their place of residence unless they are obtaining goods or services from retail businesses; obtaining takeout food or bevera...

Update on Murphy Administration Actions on COVID-19

On Monday, March 16 Governor Murphy held a joint press conference with Governor Cuomo of New York and Governor LaMont of Connecticut. There they announced that gatherings larger than 50 people will be prohibited. Gyms were closed at 8 PM and remain closed...

NJSC Chief Justice Issues Orders Extending Deadlines for Property Tax Appeals

Yesterday, in response to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 public health crisis, New Jersey Supreme Court Chief Justice Rabner issued an Order extending the filing deadlines for complaints and counter-complaints for local property tax appeals.The de...

NJLM Advocates for Public Employers Representation in Families First Coronavirus Response Act

We have contacted our Congressional delegation to seek, for public employers, the same consideration that has been extended to private employers, concerning paid family and sick leave requirements.The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (HR 6201) crea...

NJLM Delivers COVID_19 Requests to Congressional Delegation

On Wednesday, the New Jersey League of Municipalities delivered letters to Senators Menendez and Booker and all Members of New Jersey’s delegation in the House of Representatives. We thanked them for the steps they have already taken to address ...

Governor Signs EO on Elections

Earlier today (Thursday, March 19) Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 105 regarding upcoming elections against the backdrop of the State of Emergency in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

To summarize, all March and April elections will ...

Social Security Offices Will Only Offer Phone and Online Service

All local Social Security offices will be closed to the public for in-person service starting Tuesday, March 17, 2020. This decision protects the population they serve—older Americans and people with underlying medical conditions—and t...

Senate to Consider COVID-19 Bill Package

On Thursday the Senate will consider the COVID-19 bill package passed by the Assembly earlier this week. The bill package includes legislation addressing budgetary, election, Open Public Meetings Act, Open Public Records Act, and employee leave i...

Federal Update on COVID-19 Response by the National League of Cities

From our colleagues at the National League of Cities we are providing the following brief update on Federal legislative action in response to COVID-19.The White House released new guidelines aimed at reducing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The changing...

COVID-19 Bill Package Released from Assembly

On Monday under emergency voting rules, the Assembly considered a bill package related to COVID-19. At this time the bill text is unavailable but we will provide a more detailed update once the bill text becomes available. The Senate voting session is sch...

Gov. Issues EO 104 on Closings to Combat COVID-19

Yesterday Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 104 instituting various closings and limiting social interaction in attempt to combat COVID-19. The Order:

• Limits all gatherings to 50 or fewer people. Excluded from this is normal operations at airports, bu...

DLGS Issues Guidance on Emergency Procurement, Use of Storm Recovery Reserves

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2020-06 on emergency procurement and use of storm recovery reserves in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.  In circumstances where an emergency affecting the ...

Gov's Executive Order and Press Conference

Later today, we will pass along the Executive Order and other relevant information but here is a synopsis.

Governor Murphy held a joint press conference with Governor Cuomo of New York and Governor LaMont of Connecticut. Gatherings larger than 50 people wi...

COVID-19 Bill Package

On Monday, the Assembly is considering a bill package related to COVID-19. Bills that will be considered are listed below. At this time the bill text is unavailable but will provide a more detail update once the bill text becomes available.  At t...

Emergency Procurement Guidance

During this upcoming week the Division of Local Government Services will be issuing guidance on emergency procurement but in the interim we call your attention to Local Finance Notice 2018-20 specifically, page 3 and 5. As a reminder, in circumstances whe...

Municipal Courts Statewide Closed March 16-27

As part of the effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Municipal Courts around the state will be closed March 16-27.  The court offices will remain open and certain matters will continue to be handled.

The full document is available at the COVI...

Action Needed: Senate Advancing PFRS 20 & Out Legislation

Please contact your Senator and urge them to oppose S-1017.

On Monday, the Senate Budget Committee is scheduled to consider S-1017 which permits a PFRS employee who is enrolled before or after the bill’s effective date to retire, regardless of ag...

March 13, 2020 COVID-19 Update

The State is conducting daily calls with designated representatives in each county. We strongly suggest you discuss local concerns with your county’s designated official. We have stressed to both the Governor’s Office and the county of...

Civil Service Issues Guidance on COVID-19

Earlier this week the Civil Service Commission issued guidelines and FAQ’s for state employees following the Governor’s Executive Order responding to COVID-19. While most of the guidance pertains to State employees the Civil Service Co...

Seeking State Waiver on Deadlines and Compliance

The League has begun reaching out to State agencies and departments requesting consideration of waivers and adjustment to compliance requirements while municipalities are shifting resources and responding to COVID-19.

Some of these requests include address...

Governor Declares Public Health Emergency, State of Emergency

Last night, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 103, declaring both a State of Emergency and Public Health Emergency across New Jersey, effective immediately. By declaring a State of Emergency, the State is provided with more flexibility to wa...

State & Local COVID-19 Briefing

On Wednesday, March 11, at 1:00 PM ET, White House Senior Administration Officials are hosting a briefing call on the coronavirus public health emergency. If you would like to join, register now. Please feel free to share this invitation with your colleag...

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources for Local Leaders

Local responses might be essential if the coronavirus (COVID-19) hits New Jersey hard. The League is committed to providing you with the best information and advice available. League Attorney Frank Marshall has analyzed your legal rights during a public h...

Senate Committee Unanimously Releases PFRS 20 and Out Legislation

On Thursday, the Senate State Government Committee unanimously released 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 cred...

FY 2021 State Budget-Municipal Interest

On Tuesday Governor Murphy proposed a $40.85 billion budget, to govern state spending through the State’s next (FY 2021) Fiscal Year. While we continue our analysis, we wanted to highlight the following areas of interest in the FY2021 Budget Bri...

Support for Common Sense Telecommunications Bills Sought

The League strongly supports common-sense legislation that has been reintroduced for consideration in the current Legislation session. A-2991/S-421 are companion bills that will clarify telecommunications industry corporate tax responsibilities and shield...

Coronavirus Task Force Established

On Monday, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 102 establishing the Coronavirus Task Force. The task force chaired by the Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli will coordinate all State efforts to appropriately prepare for and respond to...

EPA Proposing Revisions to Federal Lead & Copper Rule

As you may be aware, late last year the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) released proposed revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule to reduce lead exposure in drinking water. This action represents the first major overhaul of ...

OPRA Study Commission Legislation Introduced

Senator Corrado has introduced S-180, which establishes a 14-member Open Public Records Act Study Commission. The bill has been referenced to Senate State Government Committee. The League strongly supports S-180 and we thank Senator Corrado and Assemblyma...

Plastic Bag Ban Bill Advances

On Jan. 30 in Trenton, the Senate Energy and Environment Committee amended and released a bill that would phase in a ban on non-reusable plastic bags and other food and drink containers.As you may recall, the State Senate and General Assembly failed to ag...

Training & Certification Mandate Hearing Scheduled for Committee Hearing

Scheduled for a hearing before the Assembly State and Local Government Committee on Monday, February 3 is A-678, a bill opposed by the League.  A-678 would mandate training and certification requirements for zoning officers and land use board adm...

U.S. House Advances Infrastructure Framework

The National League of Cities (NLC) reports that, on Wednesday, leadership in the House of Representatives, led by the Chairmen of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Rep. Peter DeFazio (OR), Energy and Commerce Committee Rep. Frank Pallone (N...

Governor Delivers State of the State

Following the swearing-in of the new Legislature, Governor Phil Murphy delivered his second State of the State Address to both houses of the new Legislature. The Governor’s remarks, as prepared, are posted online as is the video of the address.

S...

Lame Duck Roundup Week of January 13

The 218th Legislature finished its business on Monday, and the 219th Legislature was sworn in on Tuesday. In its closing hours, there was the expected flurry of legislative activity. Here’s a rundown of bills and issues of interest that were con...

Governor Signs Legislation: January 15, 2020

On Monday, January 13, 2020, Governor Murphy signed into law numerous pieces of legislation. The following laws are of municipal interest:

P.L. 2019, c. 335 allows local voters to authorize, through a referendum, an increase of the municipal tax l...

Treasury Funding Release Reported

Politico has reported that the NJ Department of the Treasury will be releasing the balance of the $235 million that the Governor placed in reserve when he signed the State budget last June. His decision to hold off on the distribution of those funds, whic...

BPU Seeks Input on LED Streetlight Conversion & Tariffs

Earlier this week the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) announced they would be hosting a stakeholder meeting seeking input regarding LED streetlight conversion and tariffs. 

Municipalities are a key stakeholder in this issue and your own experience...

Federal Budget Increases Delaware River Basin Funding

Among other items included in the Federal FY 2020 Budget, adopted just before Christmas, Congress appropriated $9.7 million for the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program. This funding will be available to nonprofits and other groups, to support project...

Library Construction Bond Act Grant Funding Applications Now Available

On Monday the Governor announced the launch of the first round of grant solicitations using the Library Construction Bond funds to support libraries providing modern and technologically efficient library facilities. Grants are available to fund projects s...

Bill Requiring Electronic Review of Construction Permits Set for Vote

On Monday, January 13, the State Senate is scheduled to vote on S-3927/A-4463, which the League opposes. S-3927/A-4463 would establish an electronic permit processing review system requiring electronic submission of applications for construction permits, ...

Assembly Appropriations Committee Advances Preserved Farmlands Events Bill

Yesterday, the Assembly Appropriations Committee approved legislation, opposed by the League that greatly expands the number and type of events that can be held on preserved farmland. The Assembly Committee Substitute for A-5384/A-5157 allows the owners o...

Eleventh Hour Senate Action on Plastic Bag Bill Slated

On Monday, according to reports and despite the continued objections of special interest groups, the Senate will vote on S-2776. The bill would ban the commercial use of single-use foam, paper, and plastic food and grocery containers. The bill, including ...

Gov. Approves Lead Service Line Bill

Yesterday, Governor Murphy, signed S-4110 into law, a bill which the League supported, that provides clear authority for municipalities and municipal water systems to enter onto private property to perform lead service line replacement. The new law takes ...

Governor Signs Legislation

On Thursday Governor Murphy signed into law the following bills:

S-1242, which requires that whenever public water systems issue boil water notices. A notice must also be given to the mayor and municipal clerk of each affected municipality as soon as possi...

Lame Duck Update: PFRS Retirement, Lead Service Line Replacement

The 218th New Jersey State Legislature will end at midnight, January 13. The 219th Legislature will begin its work on January 14, including the State of the State Address by Governor Murphy. Between now and then, we expect significant legislative activity...

DLGSA Extends CY 2020 Budget Deadlines

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2019-16 regarding 2020 Calendar Year (CY) Budget matters, including information on the Transitional Aid Application process, health benefits cap, municipal aid, and local examinatio...

Addressing a Toxic Culture

Recent reporting has focused on a toxic culture of sexual harassment in governmental settings. One example is Sunday’s Star-Ledger and NJ.com's "#MeToo was supposed to fix things." Government generally and the League Conferenc...

20 & Out Expansion Poised for Senate Action

On Monday, the General Assembly approved A-6024. This bill, along with its Senate companion S-4297 would create an additional category of service retirement for Police Fire Retirement System (PFRS) employees. Under the bill, a PFRS emplo...

Expungement Expansion Approved and Signed into Law

Also on Monday, S-4154 was approved by both houses. The Governor, in turn, signed the new law in Newark on Wednesday. The new law establishes a process for individuals who have not committed any crimes for 10 years and have only been convicted for certain...

Marijuana Legalization Headed to the Ballot

As expected, both houses of the State Legislature voted Monday to place a question on the November 2020 ballot asking the citizens of the State to approve the legalization of marijuana. The measures both passed the respective houses by a 3/5 majority, whi...

Final Votes on Ballot Measure to Legalize Cannabis Scheduled

Yesterday, the Assembly Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee and Senate Commerce Committee held the required public hearings on ACR-840 and SCR-183, authorizing a 2020 public question on legalizing adult use of recreational cannabis. The ball...

Expungement Revisions Up for Final Vote

Yesterday, the Assembly Appropriations Committee advanced A-5981, legislation to revise the laws for those seeking expungement of marijuana and other minor crimes. The bill reflects the major provisions of a similar bill that was sent to the Governor but ...

Division Issues Guidance on Electronic Procurement

Recently the Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2019-15 providing provisional guidance on the use of electronic procurement pending the adoption of regulations. The Division anticipates promulgating the regulations for P.L. ...

League of Municipalities Executive Transition

Trenton, NJ (December 11, 2019) The New Jersey State League of Municipalities Executive Board today announced the retirement of Executive Director Michael J. Darcy, CAE effective July 1, 2020.  At the same time, a transition committee has been fo...

League Mourns Passing of Past President Mayor Chuck Chiarello

NJLM Past President Francis Charles “Chuck” Chiarello, 64, Mayor of Buena Vista, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2019 in Atlantic City surrounded by his family and friends.

Chiarello began his service in Buena Vista Township as a ...

NJLM New Officers & Executive Board Members

On Thursday, November 21, 2019, New Jersey’s mayors elected new officers and executive board members for the New Jersey State League of Municipalities. These public servants will help lead the Association that represents New Jersey’s 5...

NJLM Small Cell Wireless Bill Testimony Slated

For Thursday, November 14, the Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee has scheduled a discussion only hearing on A-5560, which seeks to provide uniform regulation of small wireless facility development across New Jersey. The League has been i...

NJ Senators Booker & Menendez Seek Reasons for Gateway Delays

In a Wednesday letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, Senators Booker and Menendez reiterated the need for timely federal action to advance the vital Gateway Project, and, again, offered their assistance. The letter highlights the c...

FEMA to Delay New Flood Insurance Rates

On Thursday, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that it would delay the implementation of new National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) rates, which had been scheduled to become effective October 1, 2020 - just before next year’s gener...

State Releases $114M in Transitional Aid Funding

As you may recall, when signing the State’s FY 2020 spending plan back in June, uncertainty about meeting revenue targets prompted Governor Murphy to direct the State Treasurer to withhold funding for certain programs. The total held in abeyance...

Domestic Violence Policy for all Public Employers Set

P.L. 2017, c. 272 required that the Civil Service Commission develop a uniform domestic violence policy, which all public employers regardless if they fall under Civil Service, must adopt and distribute to their employees. On Tuesday, the Civil Service Co...

PFRS Personnel Hire & Search

At its October 7 meeting, the Police and Fire Retirement System (PFRS) Board of Trustees appointed Gregory Petzold as the new Executive Director at an annual salary of $225,000. Petzold is currently the Deputy Chief of Staff of Intergovernmental Affairs i...

New Law Will Help Fund Drinking Water Remediation

On Friday, October 4, the President signed into law S.1689, a bill co-sponsored by New Jersey Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez. The new law provides New Jersey, and other States, with the funding flexibility needed to respond to lead from antiquated ...

League Provides Testimony to Senate Committee on WQAA

Earlier this week the League was invited to provide testimony before the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee concerning the administration of the Water Quality Accountability Act. The Act became effective in October of 2017 and requires public wa...

Governor's Desk: Bill Could Mean New Municipal Obligations Under MLUL

Last week, the NJ Senate voted to approve A-1371/S-606, a bill which the League opposed. With the Assembly approving the measure early this summer the bill now goes to the Governor for his action. The intent of A-1371/S-606 is to encourage local units to ...

Looking Ahead to Lame Duck: Path to Progress' Pension Hybrid Plan

As noted in the Path to Progress Report, “the State’s combined pension and retiree health benefit liabilities of $151.5 billion are four times the size of the State’s annual budget; and more than three times the size of the S...

NJ Transit Submits New Portal Bridge Proposal to Feds

In another effort to end Federal inertia on the Portal Bridge project, New Jersey Transit (NJT) has forwarded a new funding plan to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The plan to finance the construction of a new crossing was approved by the NJT Bo...

Gov. Murphy Issues Executive Order 83

Since municipalities use State contracts to purchase law enforcement equipment we would like to bring to your attention the recently signed Executive Order 83. On September 10, Governor Murphy directed the Division of Purchase and Property (DPP), within 3...

Recap of September PFRS Board Meeting

At the September 9 Police and Fire Retirement System (PFRS) board meeting, as a matter of routine business, the Board considered the creditable compensation of three Atlantic City police officers. The three officers, with various ranks, honorably retired ...

Lame Duck Preview: Supporting Telecommunications Legislation

The League fully supports A-5450/S-3827, which will clarify telecommunications industry corporate tax responsibilities, and shield local taxpayers from the costs of endless tax court litigation. We thank the sponsors for their attention to this problem.

Wh...

2020 Rate Drop Recommended for SHBP

At yesterday’s State Health Benefits Commission Rate Renewal meeting AON, the Commission’s consultant, recommended premium rates for plan year 2020. The recommendations include a 4.3% decrease for Active Employees, no increase or decre...

Looking Forward: NJ Legislature

We expect that time between Labor Day and the election to be a relatively slow period for legislative activity. The Assembly, with all 80 seats on the ballot in November, is not expected to quorum again until after the election.

We do expect, however, the ...

Congress Returns to Work as Fiscal Year Nears End

The Federal Government’s Fiscal Year ends at the end of this month. Both Houses of Congress will reconvene for legislative action this week. We expect to see timely action on appropriations, which will prevent, or at least postpone, yet another government...

Murphy Returns Tax Incentive Bills With Suggestions

Governor Phil Murphy has issued a conditional veto of S-3901, returning the bill to the Legislature with recommended changes to reform the state’s tax incentive programs. S-3901 would have extended the Economic Opportunity Act in its entirety to...

Gov. Vetoes Digital Parking Meter Monitoring

On Monday Governor Murphy vetoed A-4135, which would have authorized the State or a local government to use a digital parking meter or other electronic parking compliance device to monitor parking compliance within its jurisdiction. The bill would have al...

NJ Violence Intervention Program Bill Conditionally Vetoed

On August 23 Governor Murphy conditionally vetoed S-3309, which would have established the New Jersey Violence Intervention Program (NJVIP). Furthermore, the bill would have required the Attorney General to award funds on a competitive basis to municipali...

Contaminated Site Remediation Bill Signed

Governor Murphy on Friday signed into law A-5293 (now, P.L.2019, c.263) which makes various changes to laws governing the remediation of contaminated sites. The new law, which the League supported, expands the functions of the Site Remediation Reform Act ...

Urging Federal Action on Gateway Portal Bridge

Yesterday Governor Murphy was joined by New Jersey Legislative Leaders and members of New Jersey Congressional Delegation in calling upon federal officials to join the State in funding the replacement of the 108-year-old moveable Portal Bridge. In his rem...

DCA Refers League Rulemaking Petition for Further Deliberations

The Department of Community Affairs, Division of Codes and Standards issued a Public Notice earlier this week relaying that the DCA has referred for further deliberation, the Petition for Rulemaking submitted on behalf of the League along with New Jersey&...

DLGS Discusses Best Practices with Key Partners

On Aug. 20, 2019, The Division of Local Government Services (DLGS, or the Division) consulted with the League, the Managers Association and the Finance Officers, regarding the soon-to-be released 2019 Best Practices Inventory (BPI, or the Inventory). As h...

New Law Requires Property Tax Relief Info on Tax Bills

On Monday, Governor Murphy signed into law P.L. 2019, c.186, which requires property tax bills printed on or after September 17, 2019, include a statement indicating that State property tax relief program information is available on the New Jersey Divisio...

Federal Cybersecurity Agency Releases Strategic Intent Document

On Thursday, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security released a Strategic Intent document. Agency Director Christopher Krebs notes, in the document, “In no arena is this framing of ...

NJDEP Begins Stakeholder Process for Requirements Under the Beach Access Law

As many of you are aware, earlier this year the Legislature passed and Governor Murphy signed into law P.L. 2019, c.81, commonly referred to as the ‘beach access’ or ‘public access’ law. Under the newly signed law, ...

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-...

NJ Blockchain Initiative Task Force Established

Governor Murphy signed legislation establishing the NJ Blockchain Initiative Task Force. The 16-member task force, which includes the Mayors of Newark, Jersey City, and Camden as ex-officio, will study if state, county, and municipal governments can benef...

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...