Asm. Anthony Verrelli

Maddy summaryThis bill amends a state zoning law to explicitly list sterile syringe access programs as an "inherently beneficial use" under municipal zoning regulations. By adding this specific example to the definition, the bill ensures local governments cannot deny permits or block such programs based on zoning restrictions. It directly affects syringe access providers and local zoning boards, requiring municipalities to approve these programs as a matter of law. The key mechanism is updating the legal definition to include syringe programs among other universally recognized beneficial uses like schools or hospitals. This change removes a potential barrier to establishing these public health services in communities.

Maddy summaryNew Jersey's A-991 requires the Division of Aging Services to create a senior citizens telephone chat-line connecting older adults (60+) experiencing isolation with matched volunteers. Seniors or their families can register with personal details like interests and preferred call times, while volunteers (18+) register with their hobbies and location to enable matching. The bill mandates strict confidentiality for all registered participants and call content. It establishes a structured system for weekly emotional support calls without medical or financial provisions. The bill is currently pending before the Assembly Aging and Human Services Committee.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires electric utilities in New Jersey to obtain approval from the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) before starting new transmission lines or major modifications to existing ones. Utilities must submit applications including necessary details and pay a fee, with the BPU required to review and decide within 150 days (extendable by 75 days). The BPU must approve only if the project is necessary, cost-effective for customers, promotes a competitive electricity market, and the utility can finance it without harming customers. Projects already approved by the regional grid operator (PJM) are exempt from this requirement.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to create an electronic system for salvage processors to handle salvage certificates of title. It directly affects insurers, salvage processors, and vehicle owners when a car is totaled and the owner fails to transfer the title within 30 days of an insurance payout. Key provisions include mandating electronic applications, requiring insurers to send 30-day written notice to owners and lienholders before applying, and specifying proof needed (like payment records and proof of notice) for the MVC to issue a salvage title in the insurer's name. The change streamlines the process for insurers to legally transfer totaled vehicles without physical title documents.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes New Jersey's Attorney General to negotiate bulk purchase contracts for opioid antidotes (like Naloxone/Narcan) on behalf of state, county, and local law enforcement, emergency medical services, first aid squads, and other public entities. It directly affects these public safety and emergency response organizations by enabling them to secure discounted prices through centralized negotiations. The key mechanism is the Attorney General acting as a single point of contact to contract directly with drug manufacturers for better pricing. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's State and private correctional facilities to allow inmates to make telephone and video calls at no cost to either the inmate or the recipient. It amends existing law to eliminate all charges, including per-minute fees, surcharges, or account maintenance costs, while still requiring facilities to contract with phone service providers following state procurement rules. The bill specifically prohibits facilities from accepting commissions or imposing additional fees beyond the provider's base rate, ensuring calls remain free for both parties. It applies to all State and private facilities (county facilities are addressed separately in the current law) and includes provisions for international calls at no charge for inmates in these facilities. The policy change directly affects incarcerated individuals and their families by removing financial barriers to communication.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits pet shops in New Jersey from selling cats, dogs, or rabbits, directly affecting pet shops, breeders, brokers, and animal shelters/rescues. It requires pet shops to collaborate with shelters for adoption showcases (without payment), bans shelters from paying breeders for animals, and fines violators $1,000 per violation - with license revocation for three or more offenses. The law aims to disrupt the "puppy-mill-to-pet-store pipeline" by prioritizing adoption over commercial breeding sales. It does not affect pet shop sales of other animals or pet supplies.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health care providers in New Jersey to provide patients with clear, detailed bills within 30 days after insurance processes a claim. The bills must list specific services and expenses by date (not using vague codes like "miscellaneous charges"), include drug names (brand/generic), and display a contact for billing disputes - without charging patients for these summaries. Providers must also offer plain-language versions upon request and include information about financial assistance programs. Health care facilities must respond to billing questions within 10 business days, with sensitive services (e.g., sexual health care) excluded unless specifically requested by the patient.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires residential property buyers to record deeds within 90 days of receiving them, imposing a $10 daily late fee (capped at $500 total) for delays beyond that period. Exceptions include county office closures on the 90th day, deeds held in escrow, and agent-caused delays (where the agent pays, not the buyer). Proceeds from these fees will fund New Jersey’s homelessness housing trust. The fee does not apply to state entities or residential transfers in escrow.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A2238) protects certified doulas in New Jersey from workplace retaliation when they miss work to attend births for clients in active labor. It prohibits employers from firing, harassing, or discriminating against doulas who provide at least one hour’s advance notice (or as soon as possible if not feasible) for such absences. Employers aren’t required to pay for missed work, but doulas may use accrued vacation or sick days. Violations allow employees to sue for damages, reinstatement, lost wages, or fines up to $5,000 per violation. The bill defines "certified doula" as a state-approved professional providing support before, during, and after childbirth.