Asm. Sean Kean

Maddy summaryThis bill limits the duration of emergency orders, rules, or regulations issued by New Jersey's Governor under the Civil Defense Act to 14 days (expiring on the 15th day), unless the Legislature passes a concurrent resolution extending the period. It prohibits the Governor from issuing identical or similar orders for the same emergency after one expires. Exceptions include orders rescinding prior emergency actions, federal compliance requirements, internal government operations, military orders under the Governor's command, or orders under other laws allowing longer terms. The bill applies directly to the Governor's emergency authority and takes immediate effect.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes requiring owners of low-speed electric bicycles (max 20 mph, pedal-assisted or motor-only) and low-speed electric scooters (max 19 mph) to register them with New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) and maintain liability insurance. It directly affects individuals who own or operate these specific vehicles, which are defined in the bill as having fully operable pedals, motors under 750 watts, and speed limits. Key mechanisms include mandatory MVC registration with fees, proof of insurance coverage, and a requirement for manufacturers to label vehicles with speed and motor details. The bill does not impose driver's license requirements or restrict operation on most roads/bike paths, but specifies registration is mandatory before operation. This is a proposed requirement (not yet law), introduced in 2026 and pending committee review.

Maddy summaryThis bill upgrades motor vehicle theft to a first-degree crime if, during the theft, the vehicle is operated in a way that creates a risk of injury to people or damage to property. It directly affects individuals who steal vehicles and drive recklessly while doing so, such as through high-speed chases or dangerous maneuvers. The key provision increases penalties to up to 20 years in prison or a $200,000 fine for this specific reckless conduct. The law takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill changes the appointment rules for New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities (BPU). It requires that any new appointee to the BPU, or at least one existing board member, must reside in Atlantic, Cape May, Monmouth, or Ocean County. The requirement applies to all future appointments after the bill takes effect. This directly affects who can serve on the BPU and ensures geographic representation from these four coastal counties.

Maddy summaryThis bill would allow New Jersey municipalities to exclude certain insurance costs from their annual budget increase cap of 2.5%. It directly affects local governments that pay for specific types of insurance, such as liability or property insurance related to public safety or infrastructure. The bill amends existing law (P.L.1976, c.68) to add insurance costs to the list of exceptions that don't count toward the 2.5% spending limit. This means municipalities can cover these insurance expenses without triggering the budget cap, providing flexibility for budget planning.

Maddy summaryThis symbolic resolution (AR 65) condemns Rutgers University for accepting eight of ten demands made by student protesters who established an encampment on campus in April 2024. The bill claims Rutgers' acceptance of demands - including divesting from companies supporting Israel, ending partnerships with Tel Aviv University, and requiring a "genocide" statement - created a hostile environment for Jewish students through "anti-Semitic rhetoric" and "glorification of violence." The resolution, which has no binding effect, directs the legislature to formally condemn the university and send copies to its leadership. It specifically cites Rutgers' decision to grant "full amnesty" for protesters as evidence of failing to protect Jewish students.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A-3022) requires all public meetings of New Jersey's State Board of Education to be accessible both in person and virtually. It mandates that the Board post a virtual meeting link on its website and allows the public to submit comments remotely during designated comment periods. The law applies directly to the State Board of Education and the public seeking to participate in meetings. It takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $1 million from New Jersey's General Fund to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for capital improvements at Allaire State Park in Monmouth County. The DEP must develop a capital improvement plan within 90 days of the bill's enactment and report on progress within one year. The funds will support physical upgrades to the park's infrastructure, including trails, facilities, and natural resource management. This direct funding affects park operations and maintenance, benefiting visitors, educational programs, and the historic Allaire Village site.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a $1 million grant program administered by New Jersey's Economic Development Authority (EDA) to reimburse small retail businesses for increased costs caused by public highway projects. It directly affects small retail businesses (with 50 or fewer employees) operating within areas blocked by highway construction, covering expenses like lost sales during the project period. Businesses must apply for reimbursement based on documented increased costs compared to pre-project levels, with applications reviewed as funds allow. The program is funded by a one-time $1 million appropriation from the state General Fund.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends New Jersey law to include Jewish persons within the legal definitions of "minority," "minority group member," and "minority business enterprise." It specifically defines "Jewish" as a person whose traditional religion is Judaism or who traces origins through ancient Hebrew people to Abraham. This change directly affects Jewish business owners seeking qualification for state programs supporting minority-owned businesses, such as set-aside contracts. The amendment updates existing statutory definitions without altering program eligibility requirements or funding levels.