Asm. Will Sampson

Maddy summaryThis bill requires main contractors (prime contractors) who win state construction, goods, or services contracts to notify subcontractors listed on their bids within 30 days of winning the contract. The notification, sent by certified mail, must include the state agency awarding the contract, a description of the main contractor's work, and the subcontractor's specific tasks with a timeframe. Prime contractors are not required to notify subcontractors about separate paperwork, permits, or deadlines needed to perform work. Failure to provide this notice within 30 days subjects the prime contractor to penalties specified in their contract.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Department of Agriculture, working with the Department of Education, to create a single online application system for students to apply for the National School Lunch Program and school breakfast programs. School districts and participating nonprofit nonpublic schools must make this online application available to families, while still offering paper applications. Schools already using their own online systems have one year after the bill's passage to switch to the state-developed system. The policy aims to streamline enrollment for eligible students in these federally funded meal programs.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the New Jersey Transit (NJT) Office of Customer Advocate and a Rider Advocacy Commission to independently represent NJT riders. The Commission, with three appointed members (Governor, Senate President, Assembly Speaker), establishes the Office and appoints a Rider Advocate who reports directly to it. The Office must review and analyze NJT proposals for fare increases, service cuts, or expansions before implementation, then report findings to NJT's board, the Governor, and Legislature. It also conducts monthly public meetings with riders, accepts online/voicemail feedback, and provides customer input on NJT decisions. The Office operates with separate funding, independent of NJT's budget, and replaces a prior requirement for NJT to employ a customer advocate.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A4720) requires New Jersey's Chief Diversity Officer in the Department of Treasury, working with the Business Action Center and the Economic Development Authority, to host regular outreach events, training workshops, and educational programs for certified minority and women-owned businesses. It directly affects these businesses by providing access to technical, managerial, financial, and marketing support - including project management and technology assistance - to help them compete for state contracts. The bill mandates these activities be conducted virtually and statewide, focusing on increasing awareness of these businesses in state contracting and improving their capacity to secure contracts. The requirement takes effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the "Home Security Systems Anti-Burglary Task Force" within New Jersey's Department of Law and Public Safety. The task force will study home security systems - including keyless entry, cameras, and alarms - to make recommendations for manufacturers and installers aimed at preventing residential burglaries. Composed of 14 members (including state officials, industry representatives from groups like the Security Industry Association, and public members with locksmith/alarm experience), it must submit a report within six months detailing improvements to security system design and product availability, along with any needed legislative or regulatory changes. The task force expires upon report submission.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a $250 annual gross income tax deduction for eligible New Jersey educators and paraprofessionals for unreimbursed classroom supply expenses. It directly affects K-12 teachers, counselors, principals, and school aides (working at least 900 hours yearly) employed by public or private NJ schools. The deduction covers expenses like books, computers, software, and classroom materials, excluding nonathletic health/PE supplies. The policy applies to taxable years starting after the bill's enactment date.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new separate criminal offense for burglary of a residential dwelling (a home or place for overnight stays), distinct from general burglary. It defines "residential dwelling" as any building primarily used as a home or adapted for overnight accommodation. The crime is classified as a third-degree offense unless the burglar causes bodily injury, uses a weapon, or enters while someone is present, in which case it becomes a second-degree offense. Penalties remain unchanged: third-degree burglary carries up to five years in prison and a $15,000 fine, while second-degree carries up to ten years and a $150,000 fine. The bill aims to improve tracking of residential burglaries by establishing this specific category.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits prosecutors from negotiating plea agreements that reduce the sentence for burglary when a firearm was used during the offense. Currently, burglary involving a firearm is a second-degree crime, but the bill ensures defendants cannot receive a lighter sentence through plea deals - requiring them to face the standard sentencing for second-degree burglary as defined by law. The law defines "firearm" broadly to include items like air guns, spring guns, and other devices capable of causing injury. This directly affects individuals charged with burglary who used a firearm, eliminating the option of plea bargains for reduced penalties in these specific cases.

Maddy summaryThis bill bans the sale, distribution, import, or manufacture of children's products intended for children under six that contain lead, mercury, or cadmium. It requires manufacturers to issue immediate recalls if they discover such products, and retailers must remove recalled items from shelves within 48 hours and return inventory within 14 business days at the manufacturer's cost. Manufacturers must then destroy recalled products within 60 business days to prevent public access. Violations carry penalties including fines up to $20,000 for initial offenses, or criminal charges with up to 10 years in prison for repeated failures.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health care providers in New Jersey to give patients a clear, itemized billing statement within 30 days of discharge or 7 days after a written request. The statement must break down all charges in plain language - no vague terms like "miscellaneous" or "supply charges" - and list specific services, dates, provider names, costs, and payment status (e.g., covered by insurance or patient responsibility). It also mandates that providers explain technical terms and include a contact for billing disputes. These rules apply to hospitals, clinics, and health care professionals, directly affecting how patients receive and understand their medical bills.