Electricity bills in New Jersey are set to increase by over 20% starting June 1 due to higher costs from the recent auction and stressed power grid, prompting state actions to mitigate the impact on residents.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy's legacy of tax cuts for the middle class is at risk as plans for fare hikes, tax increases, and transit funding loom. The proposed 15% fare increase for New Jersey Transit has drawn criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, with concerns about the impact on middle-class residents. Murphy's administration is also considering raising the gas tax and sales tax to boost transit funding, sparking further debate. The governor's approach to transit has faced scrutiny, with opponents questioning his commitment to curbing climate change and supporting public transit.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a watered-down version of a bill aimed at overhauling the state's liquor license laws, after facing resistance from fellow Democrats in the state Legislature. The original proposal sought to address the scarcity and high cost of licenses, but the approved version represents a compromise.
Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation into law to substantially increase the number of available liquor licenses in New Jersey, easing restrictions on breweries and distilleries for the first time since Prohibition. The new law addresses inactive and pocket licenses, potentially injecting 1,356 licenses back into the market, and establishes new licenses for food and beverage establishments in shopping malls. It also permanently eases restrictions on breweries, allowing them to offer snacks, collaborate with outside vendors, and host events, while increasing the number of barrels that may be manufactured per year.
New Jersey's proposed 3% toll increase for the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway is currently on hold after Governor Phil Murphy vetoed the Turnpike Authority's decision, citing the need for more information on the justification for raising tolls. The Turnpike Authority is in discussions with the governor's office to address the veto, but there has been no update from the governor's office regarding the status of the toll hikes.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy's plan to overhaul the state's liquor license laws has encountered obstacles in the state Legislature, but minor changes to the existing system may still be implemented. Murphy has been advocating for easier access to alcohol licenses for bars and restaurants, while also delaying action on a bipartisan bill that would relax restrictions on breweries, wineries, and distilleries until the comprehensive reform is passed.
A state of emergency has been declared in all 21 counties of New Jersey due to severe storms causing heavy rain and flash flooding. Governor Phil Murphy urged residents to stay off the roads and follow safety protocols. The declaration will allow resources to be deployed throughout the state to address the hazardous conditions.
North Jersey is experiencing heavy rainfall, with over an inch of rain already fallen and up to 4 inches expected. Flooding has been reported in various areas, including Clifton and Hoboken. Governor Phil Murphy has urged caution and warned of potential flash flooding. Rainfall totals have been recorded across different counties in North Jersey.
New Jersey celebrates the first "Bruce Springsteen Day" on September 23, which coincides with the musician's 74th birthday. Governor Phil Murphy designated the day to honor Springsteen, recognizing his iconic status and contributions to music. Springsteen's stadium tour was postponed due to health issues but is set to resume in November.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has chosen Secretary of State Tahesha Way to be the state's next lieutenant governor following the death of Sheila Oliver. Way, who is expected to be sworn in on Friday, is a former Passaic County freeholder and administrative law judge. She has been serving as secretary of state since 2017 and is the first Black person and New Jersey official to become the president of the National Association of Secretaries of State. As lieutenant governor, Way will be New Jersey's second-in-command and may act as governor when Murphy is out of state.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed legislation officially establishing Central Jersey as a region, settling a long-standing debate. The region will include Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties, and will be promoted for its wineries, natural parks, and historical sites. The change aims to revitalize the tourism industry, which has declined by about 20% due to the pandemic. The bill will take effect in 90 days and is expected to attract visitors to Central Jersey's unique attractions and experiences.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is pushing forward with a plan to only allow the sale of new electric vehicles in the state starting in 2035, following the lead of states like California. The proposal would require 35% of new cars sold in 2027 to be electric, with the percentage increasing annually. Supporters argue that it is necessary to address the climate crisis, while opponents, including car dealerships, express concerns about increased prices and limited consumer choice. The Murphy administration aims to have the regulation in place by the end of this year, with a public comment period expected to begin in late August.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a $54.3 billion budget, which includes a new property tax relief program for senior citizens called StayNJ. The program provides tax credits worth half a senior's property tax bill up to $6,500 for incomes up to $500,000. The budget also includes doubling the child tax credit, a full pension payment, and an $8.3 billion surplus. The budget does not extend the corporate business tax surcharge, but allocates $892 million in federal pandemic relief funds and $2 billion for the ANCHOR property tax relief program.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has declared September 23 as "Bruce Springsteen Day" in honor of the iconic singer's birthday. The announcement was made during the inaugural American Music Honors awards at the Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music at Monmouth University. Springsteen, a proud native of New Jersey, has mentioned the state often in his lyrics throughout his five-decade career. He now joins a handful of other New Jersey residents who have their own holiday.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has announced that the state will celebrate Bruce Springsteen Day on September 23, the musician's 73rd birthday. The day will honor Springsteen's contributions to music and New Jersey culture. Fans can expect various events and activities throughout the state to celebrate the occasion.