Asm. Robert Karabinchak

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new crime for possessing digital instructions that could be used to 3D print firearms or firearm components without proper licensing. It targets individuals not licensed to manufacture firearms who knowingly possess these digital files, defined as computer-aided design files or other electronic instructions for programming 3D printers. Violating this law would be a third-degree crime punishable by up to five years in prison, a $15,000 fine, or both. The bill implements a recommendation from the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation to address this specific issue.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to study whether small modular reactors (SMRs) - nuclear reactors under 300 megawatts - can be feasibly deployed statewide. The BPU must complete this 18-month study, using $5 million in state funds, and consult with environmental and economic agencies. The study will examine suitable locations (like retired power sites), regulatory requirements, economic costs, safety, environmental impacts, and public input through three hearings. It will also assess how SMRs could integrate with existing energy infrastructure and recommend a potential pilot program for future deployment.

Maddy summaryThis bill, S 2373 (the "New Jersey First Responders PTSD Protection Act"), protects paid first responders (including police, firefighters, EMTs, and 911 dispatchers) who are diagnosed with work-related PTSD. It prohibits public employers from firing, harassing, or discriminating against these employees for taking leave related to a PTSD diagnosis verified by a licensed medical professional. Employers must reinstate employees to their prior roles after medical clearance and face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation if they retaliate. The law applies only when PTSD arises from trauma directly tied to job duties, such as witnessing incidents or experiencing vicarious trauma while performing official responsibilities.

Maddy summaryS 2697 allows state, local, or contracted government vehicles used for snow and ice removal to display both amber and green warning lights during active operations. This specifically affects snow plows and similar public safety vehicles operated by the State, bi-state agencies, or local governments. The bill amends vehicle code provisions to permit green lights (in addition to required amber lights) when these vehicles are actively working on roadways and creating traffic hazards. It does not change the existing requirement for amber lights or allow green lights for other vehicle types. The law takes effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryS 4509 provides additional licensing eligibility for businesses involved in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of intoxicating hemp products in New Jersey. The bill amends definitions to clarify what constitutes intoxicating hemp products, establishes new licensing categories, and permits out-of-state hemp entities to apply for New Jersey licenses if their home state's standards are substantially similar. It requires criminal background checks for applicants, provides a 120-day transition period for current license holders to comply with new requirements, and establishes tax and excise fee structures to fund social equity programs. The legislation aims to create a regulated market for intoxicating hemp products while addressing previous legal challenges to New Jersey's regulatory framework.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the daily vehicle traffic limit for municipalities and counties to install certain speed humps (specifically flat-topped speed tables ≥10 feet) without New Jersey's Department of Transportation (DOT) approval. It raises the threshold from 3,000 to 4,000 vehicles per day on residential streets (two-lane or one-way) and within 500 feet of schools or school properties. Municipalities may now install these flat-topped speed tables without DOT approval on eligible streets meeting the higher traffic threshold, while standard speed humps still require the lower 3,000-vehicle limit. The bill directly affects local governments planning traffic calming measures on residential streets near schools or in business districts.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all New Jersey state agencies and local governments (including counties, municipalities, school districts, and public authorities) to purchase 5% of their goods and services from the Central Nonprofit Agency (CNA). The CNA distributes products made at rehabilitation facilities that employ people with disabilities. Key provisions include mandating training for purchasing agents on the CNA program, requiring quarterly reporting on compliance, and granting the CNA a "right of first refusal" for goods/services if priced within 15% of fair market value. The law aims to support employment for people with disabilities by ensuring a steady market for goods produced at rehabilitation facilities.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires certain transportation providers, including ferry operators, private autobuses carrying up to 40 passengers for hire, and major transit agencies like NJ Transit, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and the Delaware River Port Authority, to develop and publish route schedules. Providers must post these schedules visibly at transportation facilities and on their websites, and update them within 30 days of any changes. The bill specifically targets fixed route services while excluding certain exempt services like school buses, charter buses, and some paratransit services. It defines "autobus" to clarify which private transportation services are covered by the requirement. The law aims to improve transparency and accessibility of public transportation information for riders.

Maddy summaryAJR 229 is a symbolic joint resolution recognizing New Jersey's commitment to the right to adequate food as a fundamental principle. It defines this right to include nutritional needs, physical and economic access to safe, culturally appropriate food, sustainability, and food sovereignty - without creating new legal obligations or private lawsuits. The resolution encourages state, county, and municipal entities to prioritize underdeveloped communities, coordinate with the Department of Agriculture to support local farmers, and promote sustainable food systems. It serves as a guiding principle for future policies but does not mandate new laws or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DHS) and the State Board of Medical Examiners to create a faster process for reviewing applications from doctors who want to join NJ FamilyCare (the state's Medicaid and children's health insurance program). Specifically, the medical board must share a physician's license number with DHS within 5 days of issuing it (or provide denial documentation within 5 days if licensure is denied), and DHS must begin processing applications immediately if they include license details or proof of pending licensure. DHS must also notify applicants within 10 days of receiving the license number if additional documents are needed. The bill does not change existing licensing or enrollment requirements and clarifies that approval cannot be granted before DHS receives a National Provider Identifier number.