Asm. Roy Freiman

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Economic Development Authority (EDA) to create a website connecting eligible businesses and organizations in innovation industries with suppliers. Eligible entities include those operating in fields like biotechnology, information technology, renewable energy, and life sciences. The website will allow these entities to post needs for physical locations, equipment, labor, or supplies, and search for matching suppliers to arrange purchases or rentals. It must also list public and private funding sources, such as state/federal grants and investment opportunities, to support their projects.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows individuals diagnosed with autism or a communication disability to voluntarily add a notation to their New Jersey driver's license, ID card, and MVC registry. The notation includes a restriction code for law enforcement to identify and communicate effectively during interactions, while the holder can remove it anytime. It also creates a confidential statewide registry storing vehicle details and emergency contacts (submitted voluntarily) for law enforcement use only during stops, with strict privacy protections preventing public access. Additionally, it mandates annual training for all law enforcement agencies on interacting with and de-escalating situations involving individuals with these diagnoses.

Maddy summaryThis bill redirects $1.5 million annually from the existing Workforce Development Partnership Fund to specifically support the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Inc. (NJMEP) or its successor. NJMEP is a nonprofit organization that helps New Jersey manufacturers improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance competitiveness through technical assistance and training. The bill modifies the fund's allocation formula by setting aside this specific amount for NJMEP, rather than directing it to the Office of Customized Training as previously required. This change ensures dedicated, ongoing funding for NJMEP's services to manufacturers across the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a $2,000 tax exemption for New Jersey volunteer firefighters, first aid, and rescue squad members who meet specific service and training requirements. To qualify, firefighters must serve the entire year, respond to at least 60% of fire alarms and drills, and hold Firefighter I certification; rescue and first aid members must respond to at least 10% of rescue alarms and drills and have approved training or EMT certification. Volunteer organizations must submit annual lists of eligible members to the state for verification by March 31. The exemption applies to taxable years starting after the bill's enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a public database managed by the NJ Business Action Center (Department of State) listing vacant commercial spaces available for lease or purchase by small businesses. It requires commercial property owners to report vacancies or occupancy changes monthly, with the database including details like square footage, capital equipment, and building systems (e.g., HVAC, security). The database will be updated monthly using data from property owners, realtors, and municipalities, and made accessible online with targeted outreach to business associations and chambers of commerce. The goal is to reduce the time and cost for small businesses to find suitable commercial space by centralizing vacancy information.