Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (SCR 106) declares that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) "Protecting Against Climate Threats" rules - adopted January 20, 2026, and known as NJPACT-REAL - are inconsistent with legislative intent. The resolution argues the DEP overstepped its authority by adopting these rules without explicit legislative approval, as the DEP claimed authority under outdated laws that never intended to cover climate regulations. The rules significantly expand flood hazard areas, restrict development rights for property owners, and impact housing costs and property values. This resolution does not change the rules but formally states the Legislature’s position that the DEP must await future legislative action on climate policy.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryS 2189 (New Jersey Senate Bill 2189) requires the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to study the potential deployment of advanced transmission technologies, such as high-performance conductors, power flow control systems, and grid-enhancing software. The study will evaluate how these technologies could reduce grid congestion, increase transmission capacity, and improve reliability for electric utilities serving New Jersey consumers. The BPU must analyze specific benefits including cost savings, faster deployment timelines (3 months to 3 years versus 10 years for traditional infrastructure), and how these technologies address existing grid bottlenecks. This is a procedural study bill with no immediate policy changes; it mandates analysis to inform future decisions about grid modernization.
Maddy summaryS 3404, the "Real Estate Installment Contract Act," regulates agreements where buyers pay for residential property in installments while sellers retain legal title until full payment. It requires all such contracts to be in writing and include specific details like payment schedules, property descriptions, lien information, and tax responsibilities. Sellers must record contracts with county clerks within 20 days of signing and deliver a deed to buyers within 30 days of full payment. The bill directly affects homebuyers and sellers using installment contracts for primary residences (properties with up to four dwelling units, intended for the purchaser’s occupancy). It aims to increase transparency and protect buyers by standardizing contract terms and timelines.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Office of Permitting and Broadband Deployment and Development Efficiency within New Jersey's Department of State and creates the NJ Permit Fast Track Program. The Office will regulate access to utility poles and rights-of-way, enforce strict timelines for permit processing (30 days for pole disputes, 180 days for others), publish a statewide permit list online, and recommend efficiency improvements to the Governor and Legislature. It directly affects project developers (especially for critical infrastructure or economic development projects), utilities managing poles/conduits, and local governments issuing permits. The bill appropriates $2 million to fund the Office's operations and the Fast Track Program.
Maddy summaryThis bill (S 2333) requires New Jersey's Department of Transportation (DOT) to install and maintain highway exit signs that direct motorists to electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. It directly affects EV drivers traveling on designated highways, including Interstates and limited-access roads. The signs must follow federal design standards for traffic control devices, ensuring clear, consistent placement and sizing. The bill takes immediate effect upon enactment.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a public awareness campaign and call center to help New Jersey residents access property tax relief programs. It directly affects eligible homeowners and tenants who qualify for six specific programs, including the Stay NJ Credit, ANCHOR, Homestead, and senior/disabled tax deductions. The campaign will explain eligibility, application steps, and required documents through media and online channels, while the call center provides real-time assistance in English and three other common languages. The bill also requires the Stay NJ Task Force to submit an annual report on program administration.
Maddy summaryThis bill, S 724, limits annual electricity rate increases for low- and middle-income residential households in New Jersey. It prohibits electric utilities from raising rates for these households by more than the annual inflation rate (based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Price Index). Eligible households are defined as those with annual incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (low-income) or 400% (middle-income). Utilities must report program participation and financial impact to the Board of Public Utilities annually, and non-compliance results in fines determined by the Board. The bill applies to all residential electricity customers meeting the income thresholds, not to commercial or other utility customers.
Maddy summaryThis bill (S 732) requires New Jersey's Division of Housing and Community Resources (DCA) to create a single, user-friendly online application for all state residential utility assistance programs. It directs the DCA to work with state agencies and nonprofit energy assistance organizations to consolidate multiple separate applications into one website-based form. The bill affects residential customers seeking help with utility bills or energy efficiency programs, as well as state agencies and nonprofits administering these programs. The consolidated application must integrate both permanent and temporary assistance programs, streamlining access for residents. The bill was withdrawn on January 13, 2026, as it was approved as P.L.2025, c.265, meaning it is now law.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to adopt rules implementing California's current low-emission vehicle program (specifically its "Advanced Clean Cars II" phase) by 2026. It requires the DEP to adopt regulations that align with California's standards but explicitly prohibits increasing the required percentage of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) beyond the level in effect in New Jersey as of November 1, 2023. The bill allows the DEP to include incentives or market mechanisms to encourage more ZEV adoption, while clarifying that "California Low Emission Vehicle program" refers to the entire program, not just its second phase. This directly affects vehicle manufacturers required to meet ZEV sales targets in New Jersey.
Maddy summaryS 754 establishes a two-year pilot program allowing eligible New Jersey counties and municipalities to use a streamlined hiring process for certain civil service positions, aiming to reduce the time between vacancy requests and hiring. Participating jurisdictions must apply to the Civil Service Commission, detailing their hiring needs (like position numbers and turnover rates), and will be selected to ensure geographic and community diversity across the state. Under the program, counties and municipalities can post vacancies and administer exams (with Commission approval), but the Commission creates exams and handles certification; after certification, they hire candidates using a waiver and require a working test period for civil service status. The pilot ensures hired candidates cannot be replaced by later eligible lists, and the Commission must report on the program's effectiveness after two years.