Sen. Jim Beach

Maddy summaryThis bill removes New Jersey's prohibition on restaurants without liquor licenses from advertising that patrons may bring their own beer or wine ("BYOB") or purchase wine from an on-premises salesroom. It directly affects unlicensed restaurants (those not holding a permit for on-premises alcohol sales) by allowing them to advertise these options both inside and outside their establishments. The key provision amends existing law to eliminate the current ban on such advertising, which previously carried penalties including fines or jail time for violations. The change aligns with a court ruling that found the advertising restriction unconstitutional under free speech protections.

Maddy summaryS 838 creates a sexual assault prevention and response program within New Jersey's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, requiring the Adjutant General to appoint an independent coordinator who works outside the military chain of command. The program provides victim advocacy services, allows victims to file confidential complaints regardless of duty status, and refers cases to the Attorney General for investigation. It directly affects service members (including National Guard members) in New Jersey and mandates annual reports to the Governor and Legislature on program effectiveness, investigation statistics, and prevention efforts. The bill establishes specific protocols for protective orders and ensures victims receive information about compensation options.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Department of Human Services and other state agencies serving people with developmental disabilities to provide clear, accessible information about transportation options. Agencies must distribute written materials (like pamphlets) and post them online, including details such as contact numbers, eligibility rules, and whether caregivers can accompany users for services like Access Link paratransit. The materials must use simple language and imagery to help individuals with developmental disabilities and their families understand and access transportation systems. It directly affects people with developmental disabilities, their families, and state agencies that interact with them. The bill is currently pending in the Senate Health Committee.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a four-year "New Jersey STEM Scholars Grant Pilot Program" within the Department of Education to fund school districts enhancing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education. It provides competitive grants for school districts to expand or create programs in three specific areas: project-based learning, after-school STEM activities, and out-of-school STEM experiences. Grant funds must supplement, not replace, existing STEM funding and can only be used if the Legislature appropriates money for the program each year. The program will be funded through state appropriations, private donations, and federal STEM-related funds, with districts required to detail how they'll recruit students, support staff, and sustain programs beyond the grant period.

Maddy summaryS 1345 creates a permanent "New Jersey Anti-Semitism Task Force" within the Department of State. The task force, composed of 18 members including legislative leaders, community representatives (like Hadassah and ADL), and experts, will research anti-Semitism and develop recommendations to address its harms. Its work directly affects Jewish communities in New Jersey, aiming to improve safety at synagogues, schools, and institutions amid rising hate incidents. The bill requires the task force to produce actionable plans based on its research, without specifying new funding or enforcement measures.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey public school students who suffer a concussion to get a medical evaluation and written clearance from a physician trained in concussion management before returning to school or school-related physical activities. It directly affects students, school districts, and healthcare providers, mandating that schools cannot allow concussed students to participate in recess, physical education, sports, or other physical activities until cleared. Schools must also implement any restrictions recommended by the physician and inform all relevant staff about these limitations. The law takes effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires businesses selling lithium-ion battery electric vehicles in New Jersey to provide buyers with a standardized disclosure statement. The statement must explain that lithium mining impacts ecosystems, lithium reserves are becoming scarce, and identify the specific lithium source used in the vehicle's battery. Sellers must have each buyer sign a receipt confirming they received the disclosure. Violations carry civil penalties of $150 for the first offense and $300 for subsequent violations. The bill applies to all EV sellers in New Jersey and aims to increase transparency about battery sourcing.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows New Jersey municipalities to create local ordinances preventing sex offenders convicted of crimes against minors (under 18) from living within 500 feet of schools, playgrounds, or child care centers. It also requires school boards to avoid placing bus stops within 250 feet of high-risk sex offenders' homes, unless relocation would create greater danger for children. Exceptions include offenders residing in correctional facilities, licensed mental health facilities, or with court-approved housing exceptions. The law applies to individuals designated as high-risk under state sex offender registration standards.

Maddy summaryThe New Jersey Disability Savings Act (S 804) provides two state tax incentives for individuals with disabilities and their families: a one-time, dollar-for-dollar match of up to $750 for initial deposits into a New Jersey ABLE account (for taxpayers with gross income of $150,000 or less) and a state tax deduction for all contributions to these accounts. These incentives aim to help cover disability-related expenses like housing, education, medical costs, and assistive technology. The matching grant is subject to annual state funding, meaning it may be reduced or unavailable if appropriations fall short.

Maddy summaryS 1275 exempts sales of reusable carryout bags from New Jersey's sales and use tax. The bill defines "reusable carryout bags" as those made from machine-washable materials (like polypropylene, cloth, or hemp), featuring stitched handles, and designed for multiple uses. This directly affects retailers selling qualifying bags and consumers purchasing them, as these bags will no longer incur the state sales tax. The exemption applies to all sales made on or after the fourth month following the bill's enactment.