Maddy summaryS 2782 clarifies that certain licensed or regulated professionals in New Jersey may be treated as independent contractors under state law if they have a written agreement designating them as such. It directly affects insurance producers, securities professionals (broker-dealers, agents, investment advisers), freight drivers at marine terminals/rail facilities meeting specific unemployment exemption criteria, and others meeting defined criteria under unemployment law. The bill prevents these professionals from being classified as employees for any purpose under state law during the term of their written agreement and eliminates the need for them to satisfy additional tests (like those under wage and hour laws) to maintain independent contractor status. It applies retroactively to all existing written agreements for these professionals.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryS 1759 increases the portion of rent that counts as property taxes for tax deduction purposes from 18% to 30% for renters whose rental unit is their primary residence. It also raises the maximum property tax credit amount from $50 to $250 for eligible taxpayers, including those aged 65 or older, or who are blind or disabled and not subject to New Jersey income tax. These changes apply to both homeowners and renters who qualify for these tax benefits under New Jersey law. The bill modifies specific definitions and credit thresholds in the state's tax code without altering eligibility criteria.
Maddy summaryThis bill allows public high school students in New Jersey who observe Ramadan to opt out of required physical education classes and sports participation during the holy month. Students may substitute PE with an instructional course or study hall (earning equivalent graduation credits) by submitting written notice to their principal before scheduling. Student-athletes may also be excused from sports or cheerleading programs by notifying their coach, with coaches prohibited from penalizing such absences. The policy specifically accommodates Muslim students' religious obligation to fast during Ramadan, without exempting them from other required health education courses.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey state agencies that run public advertising bids to reserve at least 30% of their advertising budget for eligible local news organizations. The legislation defines eligible news outlets as those that produce original local content, maintain editorial independence, and meet specific operational standards such as staffing levels and financial transparency. By setting aside a portion of advertising revenue, the bill aims to support local journalism while preserving the editorial freedom of news organizations. The measure applies to all state departments and agencies that currently advertise bid solicitations under existing procurement laws.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs 50% of revenue from fees and taxes on real property transfers exceeding $1 million (applied to sellers of residential, commercial, and certain other high-value properties) to the New Jersey Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Instead of depositing these funds into the General Fund as current law requires, the bill mandates they support affordable housing programs. The change takes effect July 1 following enactment, with the Trust Fund managing these dedicated resources for housing initiatives.
Maddy summaryThis bill allows for-profit movie theaters in New Jersey to obtain a special license to sell alcoholic beverages on their premises. Under the new rules, theaters can serve alcohol during scheduled showings and for two hours before a first-run movie begins. The license is tied specifically to the theater and cannot be transferred, with an annual application fee of $210,000 that is reduced to $150,000 if the venue sources at least 10% of its drinks from local small-scale producers. Additionally, this new license does not count toward the state's existing limit on how many such licenses a municipality can issue based on its population.
Maddy summaryThis joint resolution commemorates the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and requests that the Governor issue a proclamation to honor the victims and first responders. The bill directly affects state officials by asking them to acknowledge the historical significance of the day and reflect on the resilience shown by the American people. It also mandates that copies of the resolution be sent to federal leaders and members of Congress representing New Jersey. The measure does not change laws or allocate funds but serves as a formal state recognition of the event and its lasting impact.
Maddy summaryS 3482 would allow cideries, distilleries, and meaderies (along with wineries and breweries) to be included in New Jersey's highway signage programs and an online tourism website. To qualify for highway signs, alcohol manufacturers must meet specific conditions, including being within 15 miles of a highway, open at least six hours three days a week (including weekends), produce alcohol on-site, have a tasting area, offer tours, and hold a state license. The bill also requires the state to create a searchable online map and list featuring driving directions, tour schedules, photos, and contact details for these facilities. This directly affects alcohol manufacturers seeking tourism promotion and tourists looking to visit these locations, aiming to streamline access to New Jersey's beverage producers.
Maddy summaryThis bill exempts reverse mortgage transactions from a requirement that secondary mortgage payments be made in substantially equal amounts and periods. It specifically removes the current law mandate that secondary mortgages follow a schedule of equal payments (with limited exceptions), applying this exemption only to reverse mortgages. The change directly affects borrowers who take out reverse mortgages in New Jersey, allowing lenders more flexibility in structuring repayment terms. The bill amends existing mortgage law to clarify that reverse mortgage agreements are not subject to the standard equal-payment rules. This is a procedural change to mortgage regulations, not a new benefit or requirement.
Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits New Jersey state agencies from entering into software licensing contracts that restrict their ability to install or run the software on hardware of their choice. It directly affects state agencies (such as departments or commissions) that purchase or license software applications designed for standard desktop or server hardware. The key provision requires that contract terms not limit agencies' freedom to use their preferred hardware systems for approved software. This applies specifically to contracts funded with state money, ensuring agencies maintain control over their technology infrastructure without vendor-imposed hardware constraints.