Asm. Verlina Reynolds-Jackson

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Office of Clean Energy Equity within New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities to oversee clean energy programs specifically for overburdened communities. It mandates the establishment of onsite or community solar projects benefiting low-income households and requires the installation of energy storage systems in public facilities and low-income areas to improve grid resilience. The legislation also directs a minimum of 10 percent of the board's annual clean energy budget to this office, while requiring the integration of workforce training and community outreach into all related programs.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires that the outer envelope for mailed-in ballots in New Jersey include prepaid postage, which will be paid for by county clerks and reimbursed by the state. The law applies to all voters submitting mail-in ballots, including those in the state and overseas residents, ensuring their envelopes are ready for mailing without additional postage costs. Additionally, the bill updates procedures for overseas voters by specifying how ballots are packaged and mailed, and it includes updated instructions and fraud warnings for these voters.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends New Jersey law to increase the state Earned Income Tax Credit benefit from 40 percent to 60 percent of the federal amount, starting with the 2022 tax year. The change directly affects low- to moderate-income residents who file state tax returns and are eligible for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit. By raising the multiplier, the legislation ensures that qualifying individuals receive a larger refundable tax credit against their state income tax liability. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage, expanding financial support for workers and families without altering the underlying federal eligibility requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates New Jersey's Crime Victims' Bill of Rights to clarify and expand the protections available to victims and witnesses throughout the criminal justice process. It directly affects individuals involved in crimes by ensuring they are treated with dignity, kept informed about case progress, and allowed to submit statements regarding the impact of the crime before sentencing. Key provisions include the right to receive timely notifications about court changes, the prompt return of property, and the ability to appear in court to voice opinions on plea negotiations. Additionally, the legislation reinforces that victims should not be required to pay costs related to the imprisonment of the person who harmed them.

Maddy summaryThis New Jersey bill restricts colleges and private degree-granting schools from asking about criminal history on standard admission applications, except for specific serious offenses like homicide, sexual assault, and child exploitation. While applicants cannot be asked about most crimes upfront, schools are allowed to check criminal records after accepting a student and can deny admission only for the listed serious offenses. The law also requires schools to consider factors like the time passed since the crime and evidence of rehabilitation when making decisions, and it explicitly excludes expunged records from consideration.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the "Safe and Sanitary Rental Housing Act" to strengthen landlord accountability and improve living conditions for tenants in New Jersey. It requires landlords to register with local authorities or the state housing department within 30 days, providing detailed contact information for maintenance staff and emergency responders. Additionally, the law prevents courts from evicting tenants unless the landlord has been properly registered for at least 90 days and mandates that rental subsidies be withheld until housing violations are fixed. These measures aim to ensure that rental properties meet minimum safety and sanitation standards while making it easier for tenants to reach responsible parties during emergencies.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates October as "Lead Poisoning Awareness Month" in New Jersey to promote public understanding of lead exposure risks. It requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing this month and aims to highlight screening methods and ways to minimize lead exposure. The resolution does not change laws or funding but serves as a symbolic measure to draw attention to the health dangers of lead for children and adults.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates July as "Self-Care Awareness Month" in New Jersey to encourage residents to prioritize healthy lifestyle choices and well-being. The resolution does not alter laws or allocate funding but serves to raise public awareness about the benefits of self-care, such as improved health and potential cost savings for the healthcare system. Each year, the Governor may issue a proclamation calling for public officials and residents to observe the month with appropriate activities and programs. This symbolic measure aims to promote personal health habits without imposing new regulations or obligations on citizens or businesses.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a statewide system of mobile crisis response teams to assist adults with disabilities who are experiencing behavioral health emergencies. The legislation requires these teams to provide face-to-face support for up to 72 hours at the individual's home or current location, with the option to transport them to temporary stabilization units for up to seven days if needed. Key provisions include the creation of individualized crisis stabilization plans and the authorization of mobile crisis response agencies to deliver these services around the clock. The act aims to de-escalate crises and stabilize individuals without relying solely on traditional emergency services.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the percentage of the federal earned income tax credit that New Jersey residents receive, raising the state match to 45% for tax years starting in 2026. It also expands eligibility by allowing adults aged 18 and older who are ineligible for the federal credit due to age requirements to still qualify for the state program. Additionally, the legislation permits married individuals who are victims of domestic abuse to file separately while still receiving the credit, removing the usual requirement to file jointly.