Maddy summaryThis bill creates a voluntary program in New Jersey that awards a State Seal of Civic Readiness to high school graduates who demonstrate strong civic knowledge and engagement. To earn this distinction, students must show proficiency in civics through existing coursework, complete a civic-focused extracurricular activity or community service, and finish a citizenship-related project or portfolio. Participating school districts will issue a certificate and add an insignia to transcripts, while the State Board of Education will set specific criteria without adding new graduation requirements. The Commissioner of Education will also submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature detailing how many students received the award.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill amends the law governing the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) to require that at least three of the six members appointed by the Governor be residents of Atlantic County. The CRDA is the state agency responsible for overseeing investment and development in Atlantic City, and this change directly affects the composition of its board of directors. Under the new provision, these county residents would serve as voting members alongside other appointed officials and industry representatives. The requirement applies only to appointments made after the bill becomes effective, meaning current board members are not immediately impacted.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities to conduct a comprehensive study on the environmental, infrastructural, and financial effects of data center development within the state. The Board must complete this research within twelve months and submit a detailed report to the Governor and the Legislature covering specific areas such as energy and water usage, impacts on the electric grid, air quality, land use, and potential public health concerns. The study is required to include public input and at least one public hearing before offering recommendations on how to mitigate negative impacts on the environment, local infrastructure, and utility rates.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the "New Jersey Holistic Representation Model" statewide within the Office of the Public Defender to expand a pilot program that previously operated in three counties. The law requires each regional office to form teams for eligible clients that pair a public defender attorney with a non-attorney client services specialist. These specialists are tasked with connecting individuals to resources for mental health, substance abuse, housing, employment, and other life challenges while attorneys focus on legal defense. The act also mandates the creation of databases to track community resources and requires all team members to maintain client confidentiality.
Maddy summaryThis bill grants patients with developmental disabilities in New Jersey hospitals the right to have a designated family member, guardian, direct support professional (DSP), or other caregiver accompany them throughout their entire hospital stay. Hospitals must provide an opportunity to make this designation at admission and document it in the medical record, with changes allowed upon 1-hour notice. The right does not apply during active surgery if the caregiver's presence would endanger the patient. It directly affects patients with developmental disabilities, their designated caregivers, and New Jersey hospitals. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.
Maddy summaryThis bill (A2295) updates the definition of "health care professional" in New Jersey's aggravated assault statute to align with the definition in the existing "Health Care Heroes Violence Prevention Act." It specifically clarifies that the term includes licensed health care professionals, volunteers, supportive staff, and employees working at health care facilities during official duties - such as those providing direct patient care. The change ensures consistent legal protection for these workers when they are assaulted while performing their jobs. This is a definitional update, not a new penalty or policy.
Maddy summaryThis bill allocates an additional $30 million from New Jersey's General Fund to the Department of Community Affairs for the Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit program in fiscal year 2026. The funding will support nonprofit organizations that implement approved plans to improve low and moderate income neighborhoods through local development projects. The program operates by allowing businesses to receive tax credits when they invest in these qualifying revitalization initiatives, with the bill providing the state funding needed to sustain this mechanism.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires all construction, renovation, and demolition contractors in New Jersey to use physical barriers (like tarps, enclosures, and vacuums) and industry-standard filters to prevent dust, debris, microplastics, and other pollutants from escaping worksites and entering soil, water, or public spaces. It mandates daily cleanup of waste, record-keeping for two years, and on-site training for workers with visual guides on proper containment methods. Contractors face penalties including $1,000 fines for repeat violations and up to $5,000 for ongoing non-compliance, with daily violations treated as separate offenses. The law applies to all commercial and residential projects and enforces compliance through inspections by the Department of Community Affairs or local officials.
Maddy summaryThis bill increases annual cigarette and tobacco tax revenue allocated to the New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research from $1 million to $10 million and creates a dedicated, non-lapsing Cancer Research Fund within the state treasury. The fund will be managed by the State Treasurer and used exclusively for grants and contracts supporting general cancer research and pediatric cancer research, with at least $5 million each year designated for each category. By establishing a revolving fund, the bill ensures that money and any earned interest remain available for future research projects rather than being transferred to the general budget each year.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates November 2026 as Veterans Month in New Jersey to honor the service and sacrifices of military veterans. The resolution allows the Governor to issue a proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to observe the month with appropriate activities and programs. It does not create new funding or policy changes but serves as a symbolic recognition of the approximately 350,000 veterans residing in the state. The measure takes effect immediately upon passage and focuses on acknowledging the contributions of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.