Maddy summaryThis bill requires producers of packaging and paper products sold in New Jersey to implement environmentally sound management plans for their products. It creates a system where producers must join or form Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) to manage the end-of-life disposal of covered products through recycling, composting, or reuse - excluding landfilling and certain energy recovery methods. Key provisions include defining "covered products" (like food containers, bags, and beverage packaging), setting recycling rate targets, and mandating that PROs ensure compliance with environmental standards, particularly in overburdened communities. The law shifts responsibility for waste management from municipalities to producers, aiming to reduce landfill waste and promote sustainable product lifecycle practices.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to establish statewide privacy standards for electric utilities' handling of customer energy usage data (CEUD) collected through smart meters. It directly affects electric utilities, their customers (who own their CEUD), and third parties seeking access to data with customer consent. Key provisions mandate utilities to provide real-time data access via digital platforms within 24 hours, obtain written informed consent for third-party data sharing, implement cybersecurity protections, and file detailed data access plans with the BPU within 90 days of the law's effective date. The bill also requires utilities to disclose data-sharing practices and ensure CEUD use supports clean energy goals and grid reliability.
Maddy summarySCR 50 is a proposed constitutional amendment that would require any additional registration fee imposed on zero-emission vehicles (like electric cars) to be dedicated exclusively to New Jersey's transportation system starting July 1, 2025. It does not create the fee itself but mandates that if such a fee is implemented, all revenue from it must be deposited into the Transportation Trust Fund for transportation projects (e.g., roads, bridges, transit). The amendment ensures these funds cannot be used for any other purpose, such as general state spending. This applies only to fees on zero-emission vehicles, not standard registration fees for all vehicles.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs New Jersey's Department of Agriculture to expand the existing Jersey Fresh Program to include marketing and promotion of farmed fish and shellfish (aquaculture products) produced in the state or its waters. It requires the department to create a new quality grading system specific to aquaculture products - distinct from wild-caught seafood - and use it to verify product standards. The bill mandates an annual $25,000 state appropriation from the General Fund to fund this advertising and promotion, separate from other Jersey Fresh Program funding. It directly affects New Jersey aquaculture producers by creating a dedicated marketing channel for their products through the established Jersey Fresh brand.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires the State Capitol Joint Management Commission to create and implement an environmental sustainability plan for New Jersey's State House Complex. The plan must include specific measures like energy efficiency upgrades, water conservation, sustainable food service practices using local products, carbon reduction strategies, and performance tracking. The Commission must update the plan every four years, issue annual public progress reports online, and appoint an advisory committee of sustainability experts. This directly affects how the complex manages its operations, energy use, and environmental impact.
Maddy summaryNew Jersey's S 1218, the "Invasive Species Management Act," bans the sale, distribution, import, export, and propagation of 31 specific invasive plant species (like English ivy, Japanese barberry, and purple loosestrife) starting 13-49 months after enactment. It directly affects nurseries, gardeners, landscapers, and anyone selling or propagating these plants, requiring conditional use waivers for limited exceptions. The bill establishes the New Jersey Invasive Species Council to advise state agencies on management and mandates labeling for exempted cultivars (e.g., certain Japanese barberry varieties) with educational materials. Key provisions include phased implementation of bans and funding for state departments to control invasive species, aiming to protect ecosystems and natural resources from economic and environmental harm.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a "Solar Roof Installation Warranty Program" within New Jersey's Economic Development Authority (EDA). It directly affects businesses installing solar energy systems in commercial or industrial buildings by providing the EDA with authority to guarantee up to 90% of loans for these installations. The program is initially funded by transferring $2 million from the state's societal benefits charge. The EDA will administer the warranty program to support solar roof projects, with the funding mechanism and loan guarantee structure specified in the amended statute.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey to amend its construction code to prohibit burning high-emission fuels (like natural gas) in most new buildings. Starting 12 months after enactment, it bans such combustion in new buildings under seven stories, expanding to all new buildings after 36 months. Exemptions apply to emergency systems, emergency facilities, and commercial kitchens, but buildings using exemptions must still be designed as "all-electric ready" where feasible. The bill also mandates a joint report on utility rate changes and allows municipalities to enforce stricter rules than the state code.
Maddy summaryNew Jersey's S 1221, the "Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act," bans intentionally added PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, nicknamed "forever chemicals") in certain consumer products. Beginning two years after the law takes effect, it prohibits selling cosmetics containing PFAS (except for unavoidable trace impurities) and requires cookware manufacturers to inform consumers if PFAS is present. The law directly affects cosmetic brands, cookware producers, and retailers selling these items within the state. It also mandates state-funded research and educational programs about PFAS exposure risks. The bill aims to reduce human exposure to these chemicals, which accumulate in the environment and have been linked to health issues like cancer and developmental problems.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 16) urges New Jersey public schools to implement "share tables" in cafeterias. Share tables are designated spots where students can leave unopened, uneaten food for others to take or donate to food pantries. The resolution aims to reduce food waste - citing that 21% of school lunches are discarded - and help address food insecurity, which affects 9% of New Jersey residents and 10% of children. It is a non-binding recommendation, not a law, and directs copies to school officials for distribution to all public school districts.