Sen. Jim Holzapfel

Maddy summaryS 2722 prohibits New Jersey public utilities from filing requests for rate increases when the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) is either investigating whether the utility exceeded its authorized rate of return or has required the utility to file a base rate case to review that rate. This means utilities cannot seek new rates during active BPU reviews of their financial performance. The ban remains in effect until the BPU concludes the investigation or base rate case. The bill amends existing law to clarify this restriction, ensuring rate increase filings are paused during these specific regulatory proceedings.

Maddy summaryS 2715 increases the annual income limit for New Jersey's homestead property tax reimbursement program from $80,000 to $100,000 per year for both single and married individuals. It directly affects seniors (65 or older) and disabled residents who own or lease a primary residence and pay property taxes. The key provision adjusts the income threshold, expanding eligibility for the program. The reimbursement calculates the difference between current property taxes and a base year amount, with the new limit applying to tax years 2017 and beyond.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows New Jersey taxpayers who were self-employed, independent contractors, or employees to deduct unreimbursed home office expenses incurred during the Governor’s declared COVID-19 emergency (Executive Order No. 103 of 2020 and extensions). It covers costs like desks, computers, printers, and supplies used primarily for work due to pandemic restrictions, defining a "principal place of business" as a home office used regularly when other locations were unavailable. The deduction applies retroactively to all taxable years while the public health emergency was ongoing. It does not require employer reimbursement and takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey public officials and employees to be suspended without pay and health care benefits if formally charged with a crime that involves or relates to their job duties. The suspension continues until the charges are resolved through conviction, exoneration, or dismissal. If cleared or charges are dropped, the person is entitled to back pay and reimbursement for health care costs during the suspension. It directly affects all state and local government workers holding public office or employment who face such criminal charges.

Maddy summaryS 2725 allows New Jersey taxpayers aged 62 or older, or who are blind or disabled, to deduct up to $50,000 in unreimbursed medical expenses for in-home care or care in assisted living and long-term care facilities. This deduction applies to expenses for the taxpayer, their spouse, or a dependent who also meets the age or disability criteria. The bill also provides a separate $50,000 deduction for funeral expenses of a spouse or dependent who was 62 or older, blind, or disabled at the time of death. Both deductions cannot cover reimbursed expenses or amounts already claimed under existing medical expense tax rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 2723) exempts specific motor vehicles from New Jersey's registration fees. It directly affects local Meals on Wheels programs for seniors (as Meals on Wheels America members) and nonprofit organizations providing social services, including addiction and mental/behavioral health support. Vehicles must be owned by these entities and used for purposes other than pleasure or hire. The exemption is added to existing law, removing the fee requirement while requiring special registration plates for these vehicles. This policy change reduces administrative costs for qualifying organizations serving vulnerable populations.

Maddy summaryThis New Jersey bill (S2721) grants legal immunity to senior housing associations (age-restricted communities complying with federal housing laws) and their members/employees for civil claims related to COVID-19 exposure. It protects them from lawsuits alleging injury or death from virus exposure during routine management of common areas and facilities, retroactive to March 9, 2020 - the start of the state’s pandemic emergency. The immunity does not apply to cases involving gross negligence, fraud, criminal acts, or willful misconduct. This directly affects senior housing communities and their staff managing shared spaces during the pandemic.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows county freeholder boards to appoint an interim member to a county tax board if the Governor fails to fill a vacancy within 30 days. The interim member serves until the Governor appoints a permanent replacement. This change ensures county tax boards - responsible for property tax assessments and appeals - can continue operating without disruption during appointment delays. The bill amends existing law to clarify this process, preventing understaffed boards that previously hindered tax-related services.

Maddy summaryS 2716 increases New Jersey's income eligibility limit for the homestead property tax reimbursement program to $160,000 for tax year 2021, up from $92,969 in 2020. The program reimburses eligible seniors (65+ years) and disabled residents for property tax increases above their "base year" tax amount on their primary residence. To qualify, applicants must own or lease a homestead (including mobile homes), have paid property taxes or rent on their primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years, and meet the income limit. This change expands access to the program for more middle-income homeowners and renters who meet the residency and ownership requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires owners of low-speed electric bicycles (max 20 mph) and scooters (max 19 mph) to register them with New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) and maintain insurance. It directly affects residents who own or operate these vehicles on public roads, paths, or sidewalks. Key provisions include mandating MVC registration with fees, requiring manufacturers to label speed/power specifications, and prohibiting tampering with speed capabilities. The bill defines these vehicles by motor wattage (under 750W), speed limits, and pedal functionality, but does not require driver's licenses for operators.