Asm. Chris Tully

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey automobile insurers to reimburse ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) at 300% of the Medicare Part B payment rate for services not listed in the standard fee schedule, provided those services are covered by Medicare. It also mandates that unlisted medical supplies used with such services be reimbursed at actual cost plus 20%. The policy directly affects ASCs and insurers by setting specific reimbursement rates for uncovered services under auto insurance medical expense benefits. This change amends existing law to ensure consistent payment practices based on Medicare guidelines.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates October 27th of every year as "Tree of Life Remembrance Day" in New Jersey. It requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and residents to observe the day through appropriate activities. The designation commemorates the 2018 mass shooting at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life Synagogue, which resulted in 11 deaths and 6 injuries, honoring the victims' memories. The bill has no funding requirements or regulatory changes - it is purely a symbolic observance.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands investment options for New Jersey school districts and local government units (such as municipalities) by allowing them to invest funds in new financial instruments including negotiable certificates of deposit (up to 3 years maturity), corporate debt obligations (up to 5 years), bankers' acceptances (up to 180 days), and commercial paper (up to 270 days). To use these new investment options, school district treasurers and local unit financial officers must complete annual training sessions approved by the Division of Local Government Services, with at least four hours of instruction on investment responsibilities. The bill amends existing laws governing school district and local unit investments to include these new options while maintaining safety and liquidity requirements. The changes apply to funds held by school districts and local units, with new investments subject to specific rating and maturity standards.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs $2.5 million in existing federal pandemic relief funds (from the CARES Act or American Rescue Plan) to New Jersey's Economic Development Authority (EDA) to provide grants to veteran-owned businesses in the state. The EDA will award these grants to businesses that are independently owned, based in New Jersey, and at least 51% owned and controlled by veterans. The EDA may use up to 5% of the funds for administrative costs. This funding aims to support veteran-owned businesses responding to the public health crisis.

Maddy summaryThis New Jersey bill (A1187) creates a safe haven program at fire stations to assist victims of sex trafficking and domestic violence. It requires firefighters to receive specific training on victim advocacy, legal resources, and emergency shelter referrals, while ensuring services are available regardless of citizenship status. The bill appropriates $1,000,000 from the General Fund to the Human Trafficking Survivor’s Assistance Fund to establish and implement this program, with the Attorney General overseeing coordination with relevant agencies. The program directly affects victims seeking immediate assistance and firefighters who will serve as first responders to connect them with support services.

Maddy summaryThis New Jersey bill prohibits the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firefighting foam containing PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) after two years, with limited exceptions for certain facilities. It allows oil refineries and petroleum terminals to continue using PFAS-containing foam for up to eight years, with potential extensions through a waiver process requiring proof of no available alternatives. The bill requires manufacturers to recall PFAS-containing foam within 27 months and directs the Department of Environmental Protection to establish a collection and disposal program for such foam, appropriating $250,000 for initial funding. Fire departments and facilities using PFAS-containing foam must report usage and implement containment measures to prevent environmental releases. The law aims to protect public health and the environment from PFAS contamination while providing a transition period for essential facilities.

Maddy summaryThis bill provides a temporary 25% credit against New Jersey gross income tax for eligible first-time homebuyers (who purchased a home in 2019, 2020, or 2021) and seniors aged 65+ who are state residents. The credit covers up to $2,500 per year of property taxes paid on their primary home. If the credit exceeds the taxpayer’s income tax liability, the remaining amount is refunded. The credit applies only for tax years 2019 through 2021.

Maddy summaryNew Jersey Assembly Bill A2335 creates a voluntary "Pollinator Pathway" designation for municipalities that meet specific habitat standards. To qualify, towns must provide pollinator habitat, include native host plants supporting butterfly species (like milkweeds), offer seasonal nectar sources, ensure water/shelter access, and implement at least five conservation practices (e.g., reducing pesticides, using native plants, rainwater harvesting). The Department of Environmental Protection will issue a standardized sign to qualifying municipalities after a statewide logo contest every decade. This bill directly affects New Jersey municipalities seeking to enhance local ecosystems and support declining pollinator populations.

Maddy summaryThis New Jersey bill (A933) allows eligible residents to deduct education loan payments from their state gross income tax. Taxpayers with New Jersey taxable income under $75,000 can deduct both principal and interest on loans for their own education, while those earning $75,000-$150,000 can only deduct interest. For loans paid on behalf of a dependent, taxpayers earning under $100,000 can deduct principal and interest, and those earning $100,000-$175,000 can deduct interest only. The deduction uses federal definitions for "qualified education loan" and "dependent," and applies to taxable years starting after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a five-year pilot program for "creative crosswalks" in New Jersey, where public schools can submit student-designed crosswalks using colors and textures to improve visibility and beautify existing crosswalks. Public schools must apply with municipality approval, and up to 10 schools (with regional diversity) will be selected yearly to replace standard crosswalks with student-designed options. The program requires state officials to report on safety and participation after the pilot ends, focusing on low-cost, creative engagement for students.