Sen. Patrick Diegnan

Maddy summaryThis bill requires insurance companies in New Jersey to send written notices of policy cancellation or nonrenewal (for both auto and homeowners insurance) via certified mail with a return receipt requested, plus regular mail with a date-stamped proof of mailing from the post office. It directly affects insurers (who must follow this process) and policyholders (who receive the notice). The key provision mandates that notices sent without certified mail and proof of mailing will not be valid, meaning the insurance policy remains in effect. This ensures policyholders receive verifiable notice of potential coverage changes.

Maddy summaryS 744 removes a restriction that previously limited local governments (counties, municipalities, and other local units) to providing broadband service only through "wireless community networks." The bill amends New Jersey law to allow these entities to offer broadband telecommunications using any technology - wireline or wireless - without the prior requirement. This change gives local governments flexibility to choose the most effective infrastructure method for their communities. The policy shift directly affects how local units can develop and operate public broadband services.

Maddy summaryS 2807 requires the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to waive the knowledge test for military service members and veterans with an honorable discharge who apply for a commercial driver license (CDL) and have operated commercial vehicles during military service. To qualify, applicants must submit proof of military service or veteran status, a military CDL or documentation of their driving experience, and meet federal conditions like having no recent license suspensions or serious traffic violations. The waiver does not apply to applicants seeking licenses for vehicles carrying 16+ passengers, hazardous materials, or school buses. This change aligns with federal regulations (49 C.F.R. §383.77) that permit states to waive testing for qualified military drivers.

Maddy summaryS 1210 requires owners of venues hosting large public gatherings (1,000+ people) and youth athletic events to keep an automatic external defibrillator (AED) on-site and accessible at all times. It mandates that these venues store the AED in a central, unlocked location near seating, train staff in CPR and AED use, and ensure at least one certified person is present during events to respond to cardiac emergencies. The bill also requires venues to create a cardiac response protocol, notify emergency services of the AED’s location, and mark it with visible signage. Non-compliance results in civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation, with immunity from liability for proper AED use.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 325) requires New Jersey Transit (NJT) rail stations and bus/rail terminals to install historical markers describing significant local history. The markers must highlight New Jersey historic sites and memorials located near stations, covering all eras and diverse cultural aspects of the state's history in a geographically representative way. NJT must identify these sites, design the markers, and maintain them - potentially collaborating with local historical groups. The bill applies directly to NJT facilities and aims to educate travelers about the historical context of their surroundings.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA) to automatically suspend tolls on the Atlantic City Expressway east of the Garden State Parkway whenever U.S. Route 40 is closed east of that point. It directly affects drivers traveling between Atlantic City and surrounding areas who would otherwise face toll charges when U.S. Route 40 - frequently closed due to flooding - is unavailable. The suspension is automatic and takes effect immediately upon U.S. Route 40 closure, eliminating toll fees during these disruptions. This policy change ensures motorists have a toll-free alternative route during closures of the main thoroughfare.

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 bill creates special "We Support the Arts" license plates for New Jersey motor vehicle owners. Owners who choose these plates pay a $50 initial fee and a $10 annual fee on top of standard registration costs, with all proceeds (after covering administrative costs) deposited into a dedicated "Support the Arts Fund" for the New Jersey State Council on Arts. The license plate design will be selected via a statewide contest and must display the slogan "We Support the Arts."

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Department of Human Services (DHS) to establish an Alzheimer's disease public awareness and education program. The program must include a public campaign covering symptoms, warning signs, and treatment options; educational materials for health providers; and training for police, fire, emergency medical staff, and judicial personnel to recognize symptoms and respond appropriately. DHS will develop and post accessible information about Alzheimer's on its website in English and Spanish, in consultation with the Alzheimer's Association. The law aims to improve public understanding of Alzheimer's, support early detection, and help professionals better assist affected individuals and families.