Rep. Kevin J. Rooney

Maddy summaryThis bill allows Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) certified in other U.S. states, territories, or Puerto Rico to work in New Jersey without retaking certification exams, provided their home state's standards meet or exceed New Jersey's. It requires all applicants to undergo a criminal history background check through state and federal databases, with disqualification for convictions involving violence, arson, drug offenses, or other specified crimes. Existing EMTs must also complete this background check during their next recertification. The law mandates biennial background checks for all certified EMTs as part of renewal.

Maddy summaryS 652 allows municipalities with a population of 30,000 or less to have their governing body (such as a city council or township committee) serve as the local board of health, eliminating the need for a separate board. It amends state law to permit this structure and validates all previous actions taken by such governing bodies acting as the board of health. This change applies to all qualifying municipalities across New Jersey and ensures past public health decisions remain legally recognized.

Maddy summaryThis bill clarifies that farms selling firewood from sources other than their own property (e.g., farmstands or agricultural operations) are not classified as "lumber yards" under local regulations. It prohibits selling untreated firewood obtained from outside New Jersey at these farm locations unless the wood is heat-treated and certified pest-free by its state of origin. The law directly affects farmers, farmstands, and agricultural businesses that sell firewood, as well as consumers purchasing such wood. Key provisions require certification for out-of-state firewood to prevent the spread of pests, while exempting wood sourced from the seller’s own land. The bill took effect immediately upon approval.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A1271) allows public school students in grades 6-12 to have one excused absence per school year to attend approved civic events. It defines "civic events" as those sponsored by government, community organizations, or nonprofits addressing public concerns like health, safety, or environmental issues. Students must have parental written notice at least five school days in advance, and school districts must provide guidance on qualifying events. The law specifies that transcripts and attendance records must not list these absences as excused.