Sen. Parker Space

Maddy summarySCR 40 proposes a constitutional amendment to limit New Jersey governments' use of eminent domain (taking private property for public use) to specific "essential public purposes." It would remove the current authority to take property for "blighted area" redevelopment, while explicitly listing allowed purposes like utility corridors, schools, prisons, waste facilities, health care, and recreation. The amendment would prohibit government from seizing land solely to eliminate blight but would allow tax exemptions for private redevelopment projects under strict profit limits. This change aims to restrict eminent domain powers as defined in the state constitution, requiring voter approval after legislative passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 1737) allows farmers to register utility task vehicles - defined as four-wheel off-road vehicles with seating for the operator and passengers - for use on New Jersey public roadways. It requires a $5 annual registration fee for these vehicles, which must display a slow-moving vehicle emblem and comply with safety rules (e.g., no operation between sunset and sunrise without proper lighting). The bill directly affects farmers who use such vehicles for farm operations, expanding current registration rules that previously applied only to tractors and farm machinery. Key provisions include safety equipment requirements, restrictions on nighttime travel, and exemptions for snow removal under municipal contracts.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows expectant mothers in New Jersey who are in their third trimester of pregnancy to receive a temporary parking placard. It requires municipal police chiefs to issue the placard upon written certification from a licensed doctor, nurse practitioner, midwife, or physician assistant. The placard, valid for three months with an expiration date displayed, permits parking overtime at metered spots or in disability-accessible spaces without needing a separate disability permit. A $4 fee covers issuance, and the placard must be displayed on the mother's vehicle during the third trimester.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands eligibility for New Jersey's "Combat Infantryman Badge" license plates to include veterans who hold a Combat Action Ribbon (instead of the Combat Infantryman Badge). It directly affects veterans, particularly Marines, who previously could not qualify for these plates due to their award type. The key provision amends existing law to recognize the Combat Action Ribbon as equivalent, allowing qualifying veterans to obtain distinctive plates bearing the badge emblem for a $15 fee. The bill also permits surviving spouses to retain these plates on vehicles registered to them.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Department of Agriculture to offer an electronic system for submitting milk dealer license applications via its website. Currently, applicants must print forms from the website, complete them by hand, and mail them in - this bill replaces that paper process with online submission. The change directly affects milk dealers seeking licenses, making the application process faster and more efficient for both applicants and the department. The law mandates this electronic option be available two years after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill removes a prohibition that previously prevented election officials from requesting police assistance at voting locations. It amends New Jersey law to allow election boards to formally ask police to help maintain order at polling places and ballot drop boxes during elections. The key change eliminates the prior restriction (in section 19:6-15) that blocked such requests, while preserving existing rules about police officers not wearing uniforms or carrying weapons at voting sites. The bill directly affects election officials, police departments, and voters by changing how law enforcement can support election security.

Maddy summaryThis bill changes New Jersey's mail-in voting process by requiring voters to submit a new application for mail-in ballots each calendar year. Previously, voters who signed up once received mail-in ballots automatically for all elections during that year. The bill repeals the existing automatic designation and instead mandates that voters check a box on their annual registration form to request mail-in ballots. This affects all registered voters who choose to vote by mail, as they must now reapply yearly to maintain this voting method.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a state permit program allowing New Jersey dairy farms to sell raw (unpasteurized) milk directly to consumers on-site at the farm. It requires farms to obtain a permit from the Department of Agriculture after meeting strict health and safety standards, including regular microbiological testing of milk (bacterial count, coliform, etc.), cooling requirements, and mandatory labeling with health warnings. The program prohibits sales outside the farm property, mandates visible signage stating raw milk may contain harmful organisms, and includes penalties for non-compliance, including permit revocation after two testing failures in a year. It directly affects dairy farmers seeking to sell raw milk and consumers purchasing it directly from farms.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Pension and Health Benefits Review Commission to review *all* legislation affecting public employees' pension or health benefits, rather than just most such bills as currently required. It directly affects New Jersey state and local government employees whose retirement or health care benefits are modified by new laws. The key mechanism mandates that the Commission analyze the fiscal impact of qualifying bills (including defined benefit plans, retirement savings programs, and health care financing) and provide written recommendations within 45 days of a bill's introduction. The Commission must review every bill that establishes, modifies, or affects pension/health benefit plans, financing, or procedures for public employees.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a whistleblower reward program for employees reporting tax law violations by construction industry employers in New Jersey. Whistleblowers who provide specific, credible information leading to an administrative or judicial action against an employer can receive 15% to 30% of recovered taxes, penalties, and interest (or up to 10% if the tip came from public sources like media or audits). The award amount is based on how much the information contributed to the case outcome. It excludes employees who obtained information through their official duties and includes protections against retaliation under existing law.