News Flash

News Flash

Posted on: December 1, 2020

Thank You For Attenting the 105th Annual Conference

Dear Elected and Appointed Officials:We would like to take a moment to thank you for attending the League’s 105th Annual Conference, presented virtually in 2020. When the ball dropped last New Year’s Eve, little did we know what lay ahead in 2020, and now...

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Annual League Conference

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

AMANJ News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of AMANJ. 

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to our more traditional emai...

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Assessors (AMANJ)

News Flash

Budgeting

14 Stories
Posted on: June 2, 2023

Ask Your Legislator to Join Energy Tax Receipt Budget Resolutions

The League, the New Jersey Conference of Mayors, and the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association continue to call for the full restoration of Energy Tax Receipts. As a result of our collective outreach, Senator Greenstein and Assemblyman DeAngelo are sponsori...

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Budgeting
Posted on: June 2, 2023

Congress Passes Fiscal Responsibility Act

On Wednesday night the House passed H.R. 3746, the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 by a margin of 314-117 and on Thursday the Senate passed the legislation by a vote of 63-36 after a series of amendments were not agreed to. President is expected to imme...

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Budgeting
Posted on: May 5, 2023

DCA Budget Breakdown

The proposed FY 2024 budget allocates $1.152 billion to the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), reflecting a reduction of 19.6% or $280 million from the adjusted appropriation of $1.432 billion in FY 2023. T...

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Budgeting
Posted on: May 5, 2023

DCA Issues LFN Explaining LIHWAP and Winter Termination Program

Signed last month, P.L. 2023, c.33, requires any municipal water and wastewater utility or authority to enter into a vendor contract with the DCA to participate in the LIHWAP. LIHWAP is a federal program being administered by the DCA that provide...

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Budgeting
Posted on: April 6, 2023

OLS & Treasury Testify on FY2024 Budget

The State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio & Office of Legislative Services (OLS) Legislative Budget and Finance Officer Thomas Koeing testified before the Appropriations and Assembly Appropriations Committee on Monday on the proposed FY24 state budget...

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Budgeting
Posted on: March 8, 2023

DLGS Issues Guidance on CY2023/SFY2024 State Aid Certification

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2023-05 regarding the availability of State Aid Certifications. The CY2023/SFY 2024 Aid Certificate for each municipality is available on the Division’s Municipal Aid webp...

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Budgeting
Posted on: March 3, 2023

Governor Murphy Delivers FY2024 Budget Address

On February 28, Governor Murphy delivered his 2024 Fiscal Year Budget Address. The proposed budget is $53.1 billion, includes a surplus of over $10 billion, and is 5% greater than the FY2023 budget. While the budget document is not available yet, the Budg...

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Budgeting
Posted on: February 24, 2023

SHBC Plan Design Committee Meeting Summary

On Wednesday, the State Health Benefits Commission Plan Design Committee met for its February meeting. During the Director’s report, it was noted that 27 entities have left the State Health Benefits Plans since it enacted a nearly 23% rate incre...

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Budgeting
Posted on: February 17, 2023

Appropriation Cap Workbook Available

The Division of Local Government Services has updated the Levy Cap workbook to include the appropriation cap exemptions granted at the February 8 Local Finance Board meeting. 

As we reported last week, the Local Finance Board unanimously approved ...

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Budgeting
Posted on: February 8, 2023

Local Finance Board Approves 2023 Appropriations Cap Exceptions

During Wednesday’s Local Finance Board Meeting, they unanimously approved exceptions to the appropriation cap. Under N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.3d, the Local Finance Board has the authority to grant additional exceptions under extraordinary circumstances...

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Budgeting
Posted on: February 6, 2023

NJPDES Permit Fees Stakeholder Meeting

This week, League staff participated in a stakeholder meeting hosted by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) regarding the New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) permit fees. The meeting was to introduce the NJ...

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Budgeting
Posted on: December 23, 2022

Division Issues Guidance on CY 2023 Budget Matters

The statutory deadlines for budget introduction and adoption have been revised. Municipal budgets must be introduced by March 31, instead of February 10, and adopted by April 28, instead of March 20. The Mayor/Council Faulkner Act budget transmission to g...

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Budgeting
Posted on: June 29, 2022

Energy Tax Receipt Funding Update

The FY 2023 Budget legislation was favorably released from both the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee and the Assembly Budget Committee along a party-line vote in both committees on the evening of June 27. The Budget legislation includes an alloc...

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Budgeting
Posted on: June 29, 2022

FY2023 Budget Update

With the FY2023 budget deadline of June 30 fast approaching, Governor Murphy and the State Legislature continue to consider how to use the $6.9 in surplus revenue. Governor Murphy and majority leadership continue to follow their affordability agenda for N...

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Budgeting

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

NJBOA News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of NJBOA. 

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to our more traditional emai...

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Building Officials (NJBOA)

News Flash

Posted on: February 24, 2023

NJ Supreme Court Sends DRE Issue Back to Special Master

The fate of DREs as expert witnesses to help identify and prosecute suspected DUI and DWI cases remains unknown after the New Jersey Supreme Court changes standards for their acceptance in court, and remands issue back to special master. 

Last wee...

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Cannabis Legalization
Posted on: February 17, 2023

NJ Attorney General Updates Law Enforcement Drug Testing Policy

This week, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin issued a revised Law Enforcement Drug Testing Policy. The revised Policy includes necessary updates to account for legalized cannabis consumption and sales. Of relevance is the inclusion of a reaso...

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Cannabis Legalization
Posted on: August 8, 2022

NJ CRC Proposes New and Amended Personal Use Cannabis Rules

On Monday, the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJ CRC) published proposed new rules and amendments of previously adopted rules. Amendments to the previously adopted rules include clarification of certain application processes and other...

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Cannabis Legalization

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

Community Recreation Society of NJ News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of Community Recreation Society of NJ. 

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition...

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Community Recreation Society of NJ

News Flash

News Flash

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

NJMEIA News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of NJMEIA. 

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to our more traditional ema...

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Electrical Inspectors (NJMEIA)

News Flash

Posted on: May 5, 2023

100% Participation by Municipalities in Latest Opioid Settlement

The nationwide settlement with pharmacy chains CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart, and drug makers Teva Pharmaceuticals and Allergan, is in addition to the settlements reached with drug distributors in 2021 –&nbs...

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Emergency Management & Public Health
Posted on: August 8, 2022

Governor Appoints Director of the Office of the Food Security Advocate

This week, Governor Murphy announced the appointment of Mark Dinglasan as Director of the Office of the Food Security Advocate, a position created last year through a comprehensive legislative package aimed at combatting food insecurity. The Office of Foo...

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Emergency Management & Public Health
Posted on: June 29, 2022

State Launches Healthy Community Planning Website

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) announced the launch of the Healthy Community Planning New Jersey (HCPNJ) website, which provides municipal-level reports to help local ...

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Emergency Management & Public Health
Posted on: June 29, 2022

USDA Authorizes COVID Vaccine for Children

On June 17, the United States Food and Drug Administration (USDA) authorized both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for children 6 years of age or under. Children who are five years of age receiving the Pfizer vaccine will be given three doses at one-tenth ...

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Emergency Management & Public Health
Posted on: February 8, 2021

Week of February 1: Covid-19 Update

This week Governor Phil Murphy issued an Executive Order expanding indoor dining and limiting the 10 p.m. curfew on closings of restaurants. The Governor announced that Johnson and Johnson has submitted an application for emergency use authorization from ...

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Emergency Management & Public Health

News Flash

Posted on: June 2, 2023

Local Leaders and Climate Resilience

The NJLM Educational Foundation is hosting a Climate Resilience Roundtable on June 26, at Warren County Community College beginning at 10:00 a.m. and concluding at 2:00 p.m.

This event aims to address critical topics including hazard mitigation, stormwater...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: June 2, 2023

NJ Brownfields Assistance Center Hosts Webinar

On Monday, June 26, at 11:00 a.m., the NJ Brownfields Assistance Center at NJIT is hosting a webinar on available funding in the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA’s) Brownfields Planning and Assessment Services Program

T...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: June 2, 2023

Spotted Lanternfly Grant Program for Counties and Municipalities

The NJ Department of Agriculture has announced the availability of grant money to assist counties and municipalities slow the spread and reduce spotted lanternfly populations across the state. 

Nearly $5 million has been made available for the gra...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: May 23, 2023

NJ OEM FEMA Safeguarding Tomorrow Grant Plan Public Comment Sought

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (NJOEM) has applied for funding through the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan (RLF) Fund Grant to FEMA for FY 2023. They are now seeking public comment on their Intended Use Plan and Proposed Project List. ...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: May 19, 2023

FEMA & NJDEP Provide Training on Letter of Map Change

FEMA Region II and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) State National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Coordinators Office will be providing virtual training on Letter of Map Change. The goal of the webinar is to communicate and...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: May 19, 2023

NJDEP Offers Floodplain Managers Training

NJDEP will be providing virtual training for Floodplain Managers on ordinance administration and model permit on June 27 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The training will include a discussion on the Model Code Coordinated Ordinance, its administratio...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: May 19, 2023

Christmas Tree Bonfire Bill Advances

On Monday, the Senate Environment and Energy Committee advanced S-861, legislation that would allow municipalities to conduct an annual event for the open burning of Christmas trees.  

Municipalities throughout the state have hosted community even...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: May 12, 2023

Governor Issues Conditional Veto of Flooding Notification Bill

As part of his conditional veto of S-3110/A-4783, Governor Murphy has suggested the bill be amended to provide that a tenant whose landlord fails to provide the required notifications may terminate the lease without penalty any time afte...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: April 12, 2023

NJDEP Releases Draft MS4 Model Ordinances

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has released two draft model ordinances related to the new conditions as part of the updated MS4 Tier A permit and will be accepting informal comments until May 12.   

The firs...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: March 16, 2023

Right to Farm Protections Extended to Aquaculture Activities

This week, Governor Phil Murphy signed S-428 into law, amending the Right to Farm Act to specify that shellfish aquaculture activities are eligible for Right to Farm Act protections. 

To be eligible for Right to Farm protections a shellfish commer...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: March 10, 2023

League Seeking Information on MS4 Permit Compliance

The League is asking our members to answer a short survey aimed at gathering information related to individual municipalities efforts to comply with the NJDEP’s new MS4 permit program requirements.   

The New Jersey Department o...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: February 17, 2023

NJDEP Announces Grants to Assist with New MS4 Permit Requirements

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has announced the availability of $19 million in grants to help municipalities with the transition to new municipal stormwater permitting requirements. Details on the grant program have not bee...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: February 10, 2023

Special Occasion Events on Preserved Farmland Bill Signed

Governor Phil Murphy has signed legislation authorizing commercial farms located on preserved farmland to hold special occasion events.

The new law expands authorization of special occasion events at commercial farms and wineries on preserved farmland. The...

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Environmental Issues
Posted on: February 6, 2023

League Seeking Information on LIHWAP Participation

The League continues to work with legislators and the administration to better understand the scope of municipal utility and local authority participation in the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), and to develop an agreeable solution ...

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Environmental Issues

News Flash

News Flash

Posted on: June 2, 2023

House Advances Wireless and Cable Preemption Bill

Last week, the House Energy and Commerce Committee marked up 19 bills, including H.R. 3557, the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2023. This bill is of particular interest to local governments because it would codify in statute two relatively recent ac...

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Federal Government
Posted on: May 26, 2023

Federal Debt Ceiling Negotiations Update

After a meeting earlier this week between President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, White House, and House Republican negotiators have met to resolve the debt ceiling standoff, when the government will no longer be able to pay its bills, on or...

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Federal Government
Posted on: May 19, 2023

Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Opportunity Webinars

The fiscal year (FY) 2023 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Safe Streets and Roads for All grants is now open through July 10. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is hosting informational webinars for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (S...

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Federal Government
Posted on: May 19, 2023

Latest on Debt Ceiling Negotiations

While the administration and congressional leaders continue to work on an agreement, the League’s federal partner, the National League of Cities has a detailed blog post on the latest negotiations on the federal debt limit and the effects of som...

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Federal Government
Posted on: May 15, 2023

NLC Offering Grant Bootcamps

NLC will host a new bootcamp series beginning in June focused on additional funding opportunities made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. These five bootcamps are open for registration and programming will run...

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Federal Government
Posted on: May 12, 2023

USDOT Hosts Discretionary Grant Opportunities Webinar

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is hosting a webinar on May 22 at 4 p.m. to discuss upcoming discretionary grant opportunities, including Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success (ROUTES), the Federal Highway Administra...

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Federal Government
Posted on: May 5, 2023

USDA Rural Development Grant Deadline Approaching on June 15

The application process for USDA Rural Development New Jersey Community Facilities Loan and Grant Program is open for public-body entities and nonprofits seeking financing to improve essential community facilities projects in rural areas. The deadline to ...

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Federal Government
Posted on: April 21, 2023

U.S. Senate Passed a Clean Version of S.870, the Fire Grants & Safety

After attempting to attach an amendment that would claw back unobligated American Rescue Plan State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, the U.S. Senate passed a , the Fire Grants and Safety Act, without any amendments on Thursday. There is not yet a House co...

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Federal Government
Posted on: April 12, 2023

USDOT Opens FY23 Safe Streets For All Grant Opportunity

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced the FY23 Safe Streets and Roads For All (SS4A) funding opportunity is now open. Applications are due by July 10. 

SS4A provides funding for two main types of grants: Planning and Demonstratio...

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Federal Government
Posted on: March 24, 2023

USDA Community Facilities Application Processing Webinar

USDA’s Rural Development is hosting a webinar on March 30 at 10 a.m. for Community Facilities Program funding. This program helps build essential services within your community or for your non-profit! This live webinar allows y...

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Federal Government
Posted on: March 10, 2023

President Biden Proposes FY24 Budget

During a speech in Philadelphia, President Joe Biden unveiled the proposed $6.8 trillion Federal Fiscal Year 2024 budget spending blueprint which includes a 7% increase in nondefense discretionary spending, a 3% boost in national security funding, and red...

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Federal Government
Posted on: February 17, 2023

Treasury Contact Center Reopens in Advance of ARP P&E Deadline

The U.S. Department of Treasury announced that the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) contact centers will reopen on February 21. This is helpful because municipalities will have to file their annual American Rescue Plan (ARP) State and Local F...

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Federal Government
Posted on: January 31, 2023

USDOE Announces Funding for EECBG Program

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program is designed to assist states, local governments, and tribes in implementing strategies to reduce energy use, reduce fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency. The U.S. Departmen...

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Federal Government
Posted on: December 23, 2022

White House Releases Inflation Reduction Act Clean Energy Guidebook

Last week, the White House released the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Guidebook of Clean Energy provisions in the law. This guidebook provides an overview of the clean energy, climate mitigation and resilience, agriculture, and conservation-relat...

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Federal Government
Posted on: December 23, 2022

Federal Budget Update

On Thursday, the Senate, by a vote of 68-29 passed the FY2023 federal budget. As of this writing on Friday morning, the House is expected to pass the budget bill. The $1.7 trillion document funds all governmental departments through September 202...

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Federal Government
Posted on: December 20, 2022

RAISE Grant Funding and Upcoming Webinars Set

The next round of U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program is now open. $1.5 billion in competitive grant funding is available for a broad range of infrastruct...

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Federal Government
Posted on: December 20, 2022

Call your Member of Congress TODAY for ARPA Flexibility

Congress' last task before the holidays is the FY2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill, and as of Friday, the ARPA Flexibility provisions that the League’s federal partner, the National League of Cities (NLC), has been advocating wa...

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Federal Government
Posted on: December 19, 2022

Federal Budget Update

This week, the House and Senate passed a Continuing Resolution to fund the federal government through next Friday, December 23, and sent it to President Joe Biden for his signature. This allows them time to complete the federal budget next week. Had the f...

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Federal Government
Posted on: December 19, 2022

Rep. Sherrill Introduces Auto Theft Prevention Act

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) has introduced the bipartisan Auto Theft Prevention Act with U.S. Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), which would dedicate funding to local law enforcement agencies for resources to combat auto thefts under the U.S. Departmen...

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Federal Government
Posted on: August 12, 2022

ARP Project & Expenditure Reporting to DLGS

If you are among the municipalities that have yet to file your American Rescue Plan State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Project and Expenditure Report that was due on April 30, please be advised that the Division of Local Government Services (DLGS) has ...

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Federal Government
Posted on: August 12, 2022

President Signs CHIPS and Science Act

On Tuesday, August 9, President Joe Biden signed H.R. 4346, the CHIPS and Science Act, into law. In addition to authorizing funding for research and innovation programs, the law appropriates a total of $54.2 billion to support domestic semiconduc...

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Federal Government
Posted on: August 12, 2022

Inflation Reduction Act Activity

This past weekend, the U.S. Senate utilized the chamber’s reconciliation rules to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, along a party-line vote of 51-50, with Vice President Kamala Harris casting the tie-breaking vote. On Wednesday...

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Federal Government
Posted on: August 12, 2022

U.S. Treasury Releases ARPA SLFRF Affordable Housing Guidance

The U.S. Department of the Treasury recently announced How-to Guidance on increasing the ability of state, local, and tribal governments to use American Rescue Plan (ARP) State and Local Recovery Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) payments to boost the...

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Federal Government
Posted on: August 8, 2022

Ground Broken on Portal North Bridge

Earlier this week, Governor Murphy, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, and other officials broke ground on the Portal North Bridge, a critical link in the congested territory between New Jersey and New York. Replacement of the 111-year-old b...

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Federal Government
Posted on: June 13, 2022

Second Tranche of ARP SLRF Expected

According to statute, the second tranche payment for local governments in areas defined as Metropolitan Cities by U.S. Treasury will be made available no earlier than 12 months after the first tranche. The second tranche payment for localities will occur ...

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Federal Government

News Flash

News Flash

Grants

24 Stories
Posted on: June 1, 2023

FUNDING FOR SPOTTED LANTERNFLY TREATMENT AVAILABLE TO ALL NEW JERSEY COUNTIES, MUNICIPALITIES

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture (Department) has announced that grant funds are available to counties and municipalities to battle the spotted lanternfly (SLF). Interested counties and municipalities may apply to receive funds from the Department...

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Grants
Posted on: May 26, 2023

LGAP PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is announcing the launch of the Lead Grant Assistance Program (LGAP) to help municipalities across the state conduct inspections for lead-based paint hazards in residential housing built prior to 1978. ...

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Grants
Posted on: May 23, 2023

State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program – Deadline June 9

The New Jersey Cybersecurity & Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC) has announced the New Jersey State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) application is now open through June 9, 2023. The grant program is designed to improve cybersecuri...

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Grants
Posted on: May 15, 2023

DCA Announces Lead Grant Assistance Program

The Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has announced the launch of the $7 million Lead Grant Assistance Program (LGAP) to assist municipalities conduct inspections for lead-based paint hazards in residential housing built prior to 1978 required under P...

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Grants
Posted on: May 15, 2023

Grant Writing Workshop - June 12-13, 2023

The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs offers a Grant Writing class on June 12 and 13.  The workshop is available to both beginning and experienced grant writers and will educate the fundamentals of acquiring funding sources a...

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Grants
Posted on: May 5, 2023

Stormwater Assistance Grant

On March 3, the Department of Environmental Protection (Department), Division of Watershed Protection and Restoration, announced a Stormwater Assistance Grant that will be ongoing until the end of this year.  The funding will help New Jersey&...

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Grants
Posted on: April 6, 2023

Funding Opportunity: USEDA Public Works & Economic Adjustment Assistance

The U.S. Economic Development Administration (USEDA) issued a FY2023 Federal Funding Opportunity Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance Notice of Funding Opportunity (FY23 PWEAA NOFO). 

Please see recent blog post for more on this funding...

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Grants
Posted on: March 24, 2023

EECBG Grant Application Webinars

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants (EECBG) Program will be hosting webinars about vouchers option, and the DOE technical assistance available to support eligible entities. All eligible entities are encourag...

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Grants
Posted on: March 10, 2023

NJDEP Provides Details on MS4 Permit Compliance Grants

In February, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) announced it would be making available of $19 million in grants to help municipalities with the transition to new municipal stormwater permitting requirements. Additional details o...

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Grants
Posted on: March 3, 2023

NJDEP Hosting Meeting for Mayors on MS4 Grant Program

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) will be hosting an executive information session for mayors to review the recently announced grant program to assist municipalities with the new stormwater permitting requirements.&...

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Grants
Posted on: March 3, 2023

Grant Funding Announced for New Jersey Statewide Wellness Campaign

The National Fitness Campaign (NFC) is allocating grant funding to 10 communities across the state for 2023. The NFC has announced $300,000 of funding to support municipalities to join the growing NFC fitness campaign; the mission is to build healthy infr...

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Grants
Posted on: February 17, 2023

Prepare for FY 2024 EPA Brownfield Grants

New Jersey Institute of Technology recently hosted an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) brownfield grant webinar in preparation for the FY2024 Multipurpose, Assessment, Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), and Cleanup (MARC) application process.&nb...

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Grants
Posted on: December 23, 2022

NJ Receives Federal “Internet for All” Grant from BIL

This week, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced that New Jersey received its first “Internet for All” grants for deploying high-speed internet networks and developing digital skills t...

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Grants
Posted on: December 23, 2022

LEAP Grants Now Available

The Division of Local Government Services and the Shared Services Czars recently announced that LEAP Challenge Grants and LEAP County Coordinator Fellowship Grants are due no later than March 15, 2023.  LEAP Challenge Grants all...

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Grants

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82 Stories
Posted on: May 26, 2023

Plan Design Committee Holds Regular May Meeting

The State Health Benefits Program Plan Design Committee met on Wednesday for the regularly scheduled meeting and discussed the following items:

  • Potential increase in the contribution amount for High Deductible Health Plans to comply with recent guidance fr...
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Posted on: May 26, 2023

Continue to Urge Full Funding of Energy Tax Receipts

On Thursday, League staff worked the Statehouse and spoke with Assembly representatives before they went into caucus, urging them to support the full restoration of Energy Tax Receipts. Our thanks to East Windsor Mayor Janice Mironov, who joined us and sp...

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Posted on: May 19, 2023

Governor Murphy Conditionally Vetoes A-4889

Governor Phil Murphy conditionally vetoed A-4889 this week. 

A-4889 eliminates the requirement for local government officers to disclose their property addresses, including their home address, on the Annual Financial Disclosure Statement f...

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Posted on: May 19, 2023

Mayors Sign Letter Urging the Full Funding of Energy Tax Receipts

Earlier this week, the New Jersey State League of Municipalities (NJLM), the New Jersey Conference of Mayors (NJCM), and the New Jersey Urban Mayor’s Association (NJUMA) issued a letter signed by 401 mayors from across the state urging the State...

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Posted on: May 15, 2023

Governor Conditionally Vetoes 20 and Out Legislation

Governor Murphy conditionally vetoed legislation (S-3090/A-4498) that would permit police and fire employees to retire after 20 years of service, regardless of age, with a retirement benefit of 50% of final compensation. The League joined the New Jersey A...

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Posted on: May 12, 2023

Governor Signs Deferred Compensation Plans Investments Bill

On May 8, Governor Murphy signed into law S-2423/A-3746, which permits local government deferred compensation plans to invest in collective investment trusts. The League supported this legislation that adds collective investments to the types of investmen...

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Posted on: May 12, 2023

CY 2022 Audit Deadline Extended

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notices 2023-10 extending the CY 2022 Audit deadline to September 29, 2023. This extension applies to counties, calendar year municipalities and all calendar year authorities, including fi...

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Posted on: May 11, 2023

Sewerage Authorities Allowed to Distribute Meeting Recordings

Governor Murphy signed S-435/A-392, which amends P.L.1946, c.138 and P.L.1957, c.183 to authorize local authorities, including sewerage authorities, municipal utilities authorities and county utilities authorities, to distribute live recordings o...

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Posted on: April 28, 2023

House Passes Debt Limit Bill

On Wednesday night, the House passed  Representative Jodey Arrington (R-TX) Limit, Save, Grow Act, by a vote of 217-215. The bill, which raises the debt ceiling and includes spending cuts, repeals parts of the Inflation Reduction Act, and imposes...

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Posted on: April 28, 2023

ARP SLFRF Project & Expenditure Report Due April 30

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) State and Local Fiscal Recovery (SLFRF) Project & Expenditure Report is due to U.S. Treasury on April 30. We strongly encourage you to file as early as possible. The U.S. Treasury has to process more than 30,000 repo...

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Posted on: April 27, 2023

SHBP Plan Design Committee April Meeting

The State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) Plan Design Committee (PDC) had its regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday. There was no discussion of cost saving measures for municipalities in the SHBP.

With the COVID-19 federal and state emergencies ending it...

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Posted on: April 21, 2023

NLC Urges Congress to Pass Rail Safety Legislation

Earlier this week, the National League of Cities (NLC), the League’s federal partner, hosted a webinar with Senate Commerce Chair Maria Cantwell (WA), and Senators Sherrod Brown (OH) and J.D. Vance (OH) who, in light of the train derailment and chemical s...

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Posted on: April 21, 2023

Congress Attempts to Claw Back Unobligated ARP SLFRF Funds

On Wednesday, by a vote of 47-49, the U.S. Senate failed to amend S.870, the Fire Grants and Safety Act. The amendments offered by Sen. Scott (FL) would redirect unobligated American Rescue Plan (ARP) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) to fund ...

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Posted on: April 14, 2023

Governor Signs EO Changing State Hiring Criteria

On Monday, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 327 to review current practices with the goal of expanding state job opportunities for New Jerseyans without college degrees. 

The Order directs the Civil Service Commission to identify job classif...

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Posted on: April 12, 2023

Deadline Approaching to Participate in Latest Opioid Settlement

Municipalities that choose to participate in the latest settlement with Teva, Allergan, Walgreens, Walmart, and CVS must submit their signed participation forms by April 18. New Jersey is set to receive up to $508.1 million from the latest settlements, wi...

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Posted on: April 6, 2023

Governor Murphy Signs Bill to Increase LIHWAP Participation

Governor Murphy has signed S-3333, which protects low-income households from having their water services disconnected due to unpaid bills. Water utility providers, including local authorities that have not signed up to participate in New Jerseys Low Incom...

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Posted on: April 5, 2023

Governor Signs Elections Transparency Act

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy recently signed S-2866, establishing the Elections Transparency Act, into law. This new law aims to increase transparency in political campaign finance and imposes several new requirements on political candidates and commit...

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Posted on: April 4, 2023

ARPA SLFRF Reporting Deadline Approaching

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery (SLFRF) Project & Expenditure Report is due to U.S. Treasury on April 30. We strongly encourage you to file as early as possible. The U.S. Treasury has to process more than 30,000 rep...

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Posted on: March 31, 2023

FY 2024 Budget Departmental Hearings Begin

Thomas Koeing, Legislative Budget and Finance Officer for the State’s Office of Legislative Services (OLS), provided a budget overview and revenue forecast. Mr. Koeing revealed that the combined state revenues for Fiscal Year 2023 and Fiscal Yea...

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Posted on: March 31, 2023

Deadline Approaching to Participate in Latest Opioid Settlement

Municipalities that choose to participate in the latest settlement with Teva, Allergan, Walgreens, Walmart, and CVS must submit their signed participation forms by April 18. New Jersey is set to receive up to $508.1 million from the latest settlements, wi...

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Posted on: March 31, 2023

20 and Out Legislation On Governor’s Desk

On Thursday, the full Assembly unanimously approved A-4498/S-3090, which provides police and fire a retirement allowance after 20 years of service, regardless of age. The bill is now before the Governor for his consideration. 

The League joins the...

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Posted on: March 31, 2023

League Participates in National League of Cities CCC Fly In

Earlier this week, League President and Millstone Borough Mayor Raymond Heck; Newark City Council President LaMonica McIver; Lori Buckelew, NJLM Deputy Executive Director and Director of Government Affairs; and Paul Penna, NJLM Senior Legislative Analyst ...

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Posted on: March 24, 2023

Benefits of Age-Friendly Community Practices Lunch & Learn Held

On March 21 the League hosted a League’s Lunch and Learn to discover the benefits of Age-Friendly Community Practices with representatives from the Department of Human Services, including Janet Sharma, Age-Friendly Englewood, Member of the New J...

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Posted on: March 24, 2023

PDC Discusses Local Government Employer Group Mid-Year Analysis

At the March 22 Plan Design Committee (PDC), AON, the actuary for the State Health Benefits Commission (SHBC), provided answers to questions PDC members had for the mid-year performance overview of the plan. There was no new information provided from the ...

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Posted on: March 24, 2023

20 and Out Legislation Passed Senate, Before Assembly

Legislation (A-4998/S-3090) which provides police and fire personnel a retirement allowance after 20 years of service, regardless of age unanimously passed the Senate earlier this week and is before the full Assembly on March 30. The League joins the New ...

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Posted on: March 17, 2023

Expansion of Prevailing Wage Requirements to PILOT Projects

The Senate Budget committee was scheduled to consider a bill expanding prevailing wage requirements to PILOT projects, however, after outreach by the League and other stakeholders, sponsor Senator Gopal held S-2798 for additional review and possible amend...

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Posted on: March 17, 2023

Assembly Committee to Consider 20 and Out Legislation

On Monday Assembly State and Local Government Committee will be considering A-4498, which provides police and fire personnel a retirement allowance after 20 years of service, regardless of age. The League joins the New Jersey Association of Counties in ou...

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Posted on: March 16, 2023

Governor Signs Legislation Permitting Alternate Deputy Registrars

This week, Governor Murphy signed A-4524/S-2709, now P.L.2023, c.22, which permits the appointment of additional alternate deputy registrars. The League supports this legislation because is especially necessary in municipalities that host hospita...

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Posted on: March 10, 2023

Governor Signs Bill Changing Certain Primary Election Dates

On March 9 Governor Murphy signed into law S-3595/A-5177, which changes certain primary election deadlines. The new law took effect immediately. 

 The deadlines changed include the following: 

  • Submission by the Municipal Clerk to ...
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Posted on: March 10, 2023

State Health Benefits Commission Meeting Update

During the March meeting of the State Health Benefits Commission (SHBC) this week, the members heard a mid-year overview from AON, including information on the State Employee Group, the Local Government Employer Group, and&n...

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Posted on: March 10, 2023

Reminder: SLFRF Project and Expenditure (P&E) Report Due April 30

As a reminder, the annual ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Plan (SLFRF) Project and Expenditure (P&E) Report is due on April 30. The portal will open on April 1. 

Working with the National League of Cities (NLC), the League’s fed...

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Posted on: March 3, 2023

NJBPU Seeking Input on LED Streetlight Program

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) has issued a Request for Comments, seeking input from interested parties regarding the conversion of existing streetlights to LED streetlights. Specifically, seeking information related to streetlight and p...

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Posted on: February 27, 2023

Governor to Deliver New Jersey 2024 Budget Address on February 28

Governor Phil Murphy will deliver the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Address on February 28, which follows the State of the State Address in January. The Governor has previously spoken of building the "Next New Jersey," which aims to create an economic...

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Posted on: February 24, 2023

Division Issues Guidance on Cap Relief & Opioid Settlement

The Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2023-04 announcing one-time exemptions to the appropriation cap for certain items for the Calendar Year 2023/State Fiscal Year 2024 budget and guidance on usage and reporting Opioid Set...

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Posted on: January 31, 2023

State Health Benefits Increase Remains Unresolved

Unfortunately, as we reported last week, the talks regarding relief for raising healthcare premium costs remain unresolved. This comes among news that Newark, Camden, and Trenton have all left the State Health Benefits system, or are in the process of doi...

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Posted on: January 31, 2023

Bill Authorizing Special Occasion Events on Preserved Farmland on Track to Become Law

On Thursday, the Assembly voted to approve the recommendations of Governor Murphy’s conditional veto of S-757, after suspending their normal rules to include the bill onto the voting session board list.

The legislation looks to expand au...

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Posted on: January 31, 2023

Senate Committee Discusses Bill Looking to Increase Utility Participation in LIHWAP

This week, the Senate Economic Growth Committee reviewed S-3333 for discussion only. While the League agrees that additional efforts are needed to ensure the success of the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), we do not agree t...

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Posted on: January 31, 2023

NJDEP Announces Reimbursements for Radon Test Kits

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) is offering Radon Awareness Program (RAP) grants to all municipalities, on a first come basis to be distributed to residents. Please see the Radon Action Partnership Packet, t...

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Posted on: January 31, 2023

Pass a Resolution to Become a RevolutionNJ Community

2026 is the 250th anniversary of the United States! This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that allows New Jerseyans to create a lasting legacy. RevolutionNJ is the formal state initiative for the commemoration of the 250th and a partnership between t...

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Posted on: January 31, 2023

Guidance Issued on Marriage and Civil Union License Reimbursement

If you recall, P.L. 2022, c. 23 prohibited municipalities from charging the fee for marriage and civil union licenses from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023. The state has just released the Marriage License Reimbursement Program procedures for municipalities...

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Posted on: January 13, 2023

Governor Delivered State of State Address

On Tuesday, Governor Phil Murphy delivered his 2023 State of the State address. In his speech, Governor Murphy announced plans to overhaul New Jersey’s antiquated liquor laws, something that has been a longtime League priority; the extension of ...

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Posted on: January 13, 2023

Key Liquor License Reform Takeaways from State of the State

In Governor Murphy’s State of the State address, he revisited the topic of Liquor License reform, which he discussed during his speech of the League Conference in November. The Governor’s proposed plan includes phasing out the populati...

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Posted on: January 10, 2023

Governor Murphy Delivers State of the State Address

Today, Governor Phil Murphy delivered his 2023 State of the State address. This marks the first time in three years that the speech was given in person as the last two addresses were virtual because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

In his speech, Gov...

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Posted on: January 9, 2023

SHBP Municipalities: Please Continue to Reach Out to Governor & Your Legislators

The New Year has come and the 379 municipalities participating in the State Health Benefits system, along with their employees, and ultimately their taxpayers, will still have to fund a 22% increase in health benefits costs, unless an immediate solution i...

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Posted on: January 9, 2023

Governor Signs Bill Allowing Use of Third-Party Private Construction Inspectors

On Thursday, Governor Murphy signed A-573, which makes several changes to the Uniform Construction Code Act (UCC). The bill codifies the three-day construction inspection turnaround and allows for developers to contract with private on-site inspe...

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Posted on: January 9, 2023

FY2023 Federal Omnibus Budget Passed

In the final week of December, the House and Senate passed, and President Biden signed a $1.7 trillion FY2023 federal budget through September 30, 2023. For provisions of state and local interest, please read the League’s two blog posts, the fir...

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Posted on: December 23, 2022

Department of Treasury Releases Russia-Belarus List

P.L. 2022, c. 3, which prohibits government dealings with businesses associated with Belarus and Russia, requires the New Jersey Department of Treasury to develop a list of companies it determines engage in prohibited activities associated with Russia or ...

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Posted on: December 5, 2022

State Health Benefits Update

State Health Benefits Update

The League continues to work pro-actively and collaboratively with our partners at the NJ Conference of Mayors and NJ Association of Counties to identify a workable plan and means toward a resolution by the Governor and the le...

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Posted on: December 5, 2022

Governor Signs School Security Legislation

Governor Signs School Security Legislation 

On December 1 Governor Murphy signed into law S-2426, which requires public schools and nonpublic schools to submit critical incident mapping data for all schools and school grounds to local law enforcem...

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Posted on: December 5, 2022

Revised Model Procurement Forms

Revised Model Procurement Forms

 

Recently, the Division of Local Government Services updated two model procurement forms – the Ownership Disclosure Form and the Federal Non-Debarment Certification. The Ownership Disclosure Form was updat...

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Posted on: November 11, 2022

State Health Benefits Commission Meets – No New Action on SHBP 2023 Increase

Earlier this week, the State Health Benefits Commission (SHBC) met to consider regular business and appeal requests. During the meeting, SHBC Committee member Dudley Burge asked for an update on and solutions to the 22% cost increase in local government h...

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Posted on: October 31, 2022

DLGS Announces Municipal Budget Appropriations for Fire Districts

On October 19 the Division of Local Government Services (DLGS) released Local Finance Notice 2022-19 (LFN). The notice reports that municipalities may appropriate funds for use by their volunteer fire companies or boards of fire commissioners in ...

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Posted on: October 31, 2022

OSC Municipal Sick and Vacation Leave Corrective Action

If you were one of the municipalities that had their sick and vacation time policy reviewed by the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) earlier this year and asked to make corrective action by September, we ask you to share your response with the League ...

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Posted on: October 31, 2022

Assembly Advances Legislation to Allow Police to be Present at Certain Polling Places

On Thursday, the Assembly favorably reported S-2912 which permits police officers to be present at senior residential centers or schools that are used as polling places. The legislation also requires school districts to establish election day sec...

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Posted on: September 27, 2022

MS4 Tier A Permit Renewal Comment Period Closed, Advocacy Efforts Continue

The comment period for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) Draft Tier A Permit renewal closed on September 20. The League in partnership with the New Jersey Conference of Mayors submitted comments focusing on...

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Posted on: September 27, 2022

SHBP Rate Increase Adopted

Last week, the State Health Benefits Commission adopted the rate increase as proposed in the AON Rate Renewal Report Local Government Employee/Retiree Group and State Employee/Retiree Group. Municipalities in the State Health Benefits Plan will s...

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Posted on: September 27, 2022

Governor Murphy Signs Executive Order Increasing Offshore Wind Goal by 2040

Yesterday, Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 307, increasing New Jersey’s offshore wind goal by nearly 50% to 11,000 megawatts (MW) by 2040. The Executive Order, which increases the state’s current goal of 7,500 ...

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Posted on: September 27, 2022

Bill Authorizing Special Occasion Events on Preserved Farmland is Conditionally Vetoed

On Thursday, Governor Murphy issued a conditional veto of S-757. The legislation sought to expand authorization of special occasion events at commercial farms and wineries on preserved farmland. The League opposed S-757 as passed by the legislatu...

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Posted on: September 27, 2022

Duct Cleaning Subject to Prevailing Wage Law

On September 22 Governor Murphy signed into law S-1027/A2208, which makes duct cleaning as public work subject to the prevailing wage law. P.L. 2022, c. 113 took effect immediately.  Contact: Lori Buckelew, Deputy Executive Dire...

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Posted on: September 27, 2022

Legislation Will Add Local Representation to State Health Benefits Commission

Senators Ruiz and Sarlo have introduced legislation that would expand the State Health Benefits Commission from five members to nine members and add local representation to Commission. S-3033 would add two local government management members, a m...

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Posted on: September 27, 2022

Blog Post: Available Federal Grants

Please read the League’s recent blog post for newly announced and application instructions for various competitive federal grants that are available to municipalities.  Contact: Paul Penna, Senior Legislative Analyst, ...

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Posted on: September 27, 2022

Financial Data Transparency Act of 2022: A Costly Unfunded Mandate for Municipalities

As Congress prepares to pass the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), municipalities should be aware of a provision that may have a negative impact on their operations through the imposition of a new unfunded mandate. Senators Mark Warner (D-...

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Posted on: September 2, 2022

ABC Special Ruling on Delivery of Alcoholic Beverages

The Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) announced a special ruling that would allow for third-party delivery services of alcoholic beverages to customers. Please see our blog post for an in-depth review of the special ruling. &a...

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Posted on: August 12, 2022

State Health Benefits Program Plan Design Committee Meets

Yesterday, the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) Plan Design Committee met, and the members were given an Overview of the Rate Setting Environment by AON, a risk management firm assisting the SHBP. AON’s overview offered a number of reasons f...

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Posted on: August 12, 2022

Governor Signs Law Requiring Municipalities to Create Business Insurance Registry

Last Friday, Governor Murphy signed into law S-1368 requiring all business owners and owners of multifamily rental units to maintain certain levels of liability insurance. In addition, the new law requires that all business owners and owners of m...

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Posted on: August 8, 2022

Governor Signs Law Requiring Municipalities to Create Business Insurance Registry

Friday afternoon, Governor Murphy signed into law S-1368 requiring all business owners and owners of multifamily rental units to maintain certain levels of liability insurance. In addition, the new law requires that all business owners and owners...

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Posted on: July 25, 2022

Proposed Increase to State Health Benefits Rates Update

Earlier this week we advised you that the State Health Benefits Commission (SHBC) was scheduled to meet Monday, July 25, via conference call for its Annual Rate Renewal meeting. The SHBC has removed the rate hike proposal from the July 25 agenda for consi...

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Posted on: July 25, 2022

Governor Murphy Signs Police Licensing Program Into Law

On Thursday, July 21, Governor Murphy signed into law S2742/A4194, establishing a statewide police licensing program and appropriating $6 million to establish the program. Governor Murphy highlighted that with this new law New Jersey would join t...

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Posted on: July 25, 2022

New Lead-Based Paint Inspections Requirements Now Law – Resources and Training Available

As a reminder, the new lead-based paint inspection requirements, pursuant to P.L.2021, c.182, take effect today, July 22, 2022. The law, signed by Governor Murphy last year, imposes an obligation on municipalities to perform or hire a certified l...

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Posted on: July 25, 2022

NJEDA Expanding Electric Vehicle Voucher Program

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced a $45 million expansion of the New Jersey Zero Emission Incentive Program (NJ ZIP), doubling the amount of funding dedicated to the program. NJ ZIP provides vouchers to businesses an...

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Posted on: July 25, 2022

DLGS Issues State Aid Payment Schedule

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2022-14, CY 2022/FY 2023 State Aid payment schedule. Consolidated Municipal Property Tax Relief (CMPTRA), Energy Tax Receipts (ERT), and the Municipal Relief Fund aid ACH d...

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Posted on: June 29, 2022

Energy Tax Receipt Funding Update

The FY 2023 Budget legislation was favorably released from both the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee and the Assembly Budget Committee along a party-line vote in both committees on the evening of June 27. The Budget legislation includes an alloc...

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Posted on: June 29, 2022

FY2023 Budget Update

With the FY2023 budget deadline of June 30 fast approaching, Governor Murphy and the State Legislature continue to consider how to use the $6.9 in surplus revenue. Governor Murphy and majority leadership continue to follow their affordability agenda for N...

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Posted on: June 29, 2022

Assembly Committee Advances Firefighter Cancer Screening Mandate

On Thursday, the Assembly Appropriations Committee favorably reported A-4127, which mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for firefighters who are not enrolled in the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP). This provides for the approxim...

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Posted on: June 13, 2022

NJLM Lunch and Learn: Lead-Paint Guidance Materials Available

NJLM’s Lunch and Learn series continued on June 3 with a briefing featuring Kia King, Director of Policy & External Affairs for the Department of Community Affairs, and Marie Daniels, Program Specialist 2, Regulatory Program, Code Developmen...

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Posted on: June 13, 2022

Second Tranche of ARP SLRF Expected

According to statute, the second tranche payment for local governments in areas defined as Metropolitan Cities by U.S. Treasury will be made available no earlier than 12 months after the first tranche. The second tranche payment for localities will occur ...

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Posted on: June 13, 2022

NJDEP Issues Compliance Advisory on MS4 Permits

On June 1 the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) issued a Compliance Advisory noting that MS4 Permit Compliance Submissions are past due. DEP’s Division of Water Enforcement is conducting compliance evaluation inspections ...

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Posted on: June 13, 2022

Acting Governor Scutari Signs Pedicab Alcoholic Beverage Consumption Legislation

The weekend of June 4 while Governor Murphy and Lieutenant Governor Oliver were out of the state on personal business, acting Governor Scutari signed P.L 2022, c.16 allowing for the consumption of alcoholic beverages in pedicabs under the following circum...

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Posted on: June 13, 2022

Action Needed to Advance ETR Fund Restoration

A-3804/S-330, which would restore distributions to municipalities from the Energy Tax Receipts Property Tax Municipal Distribution Program (ETR) over two years and require additional funding to be subtracted from the municipal property tax levy, is the fi...

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Posted on: April 19, 2022

New Law Permits Existing Police and Fire Chiefs to Serve Longer

On April 12, Governor Murphy signed into law A-2158, which took effect immediately. P.L. 2022, c. 9 permits an existing police chief or fire chief who attains the age of 65 within the next two years to continue serving as chief until the end of t...

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Posted on: December 1, 2020

Thank You For Attenting the 105th Annual Conference

Dear Elected and Appointed Officials:We would like to take a moment to thank you for attending the League’s 105th Annual Conference, presented virtually in 2020. When the ball dropped last New Year’s Eve, little did we know what lay ahead in 2020, and now...

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Posted on: July 19, 2019

July 2019 Interest Arbitration Update

In June, mediators appointed by the Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) issued three interest arbitration awards. The first interest arbitration awards to be issued since the expiration of the 2% cap. Each of these awards arose out of an impasse...

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News Flash

Posted on: May 12, 2023

New Law Requires DEP Post Water Purveyor Information Online

This new law took effect on May 8, and the DEP has 30 days from this date to post the required reports.  

Contact: Frank Marshall, Esq., Associate General Counsel, fmarshall@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x137. 

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Infrastructure
Posted on: May 5, 2023

NJIT Hosts Technical Assistance for Resilience Program

NJIT - Technical Assistance for Resilience Program (TARP) will host a Hazard Mitigation Workshop on June 7 on its campus in Newark from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to discuss hazard mitigation projects because of floods, energy disruption, aging infrastructure, ...

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Infrastructure
Posted on: March 24, 2023

DCA Updates LIHWAP Webpage to Assist Customers and Utilities

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has updated its Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) webpage to provide better assistance to customers and utilities looking for information on the program.

The updated webpage provides...

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Infrastructure

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

JAG News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of JAG. 

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to our more traditional email ...

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Jersey Access Group (JAG)

News Flash

Posted on: July 19, 2019

July 2019 Interest Arbitration Update

In June, mediators appointed by the Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) issued three interest arbitration awards. The first interest arbitration awards to be issued since the expiration of the 2% cap. Each of these awards arose out of an impasse...

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Labor Relations

News Flash

Posted on: May 19, 2023

Bill Clarifying Electronic Public Meetings Clears Committee

On Thursday, the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee approved S-2603. The bill seeks to clarify the ability of a public body to hold electronic meetings, and if doing so the appropriate notice requirements.&n...

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Land Use & Development Issues

News Flash

Posted on: June 2, 2023

Senate Committee Advances Short Term Reseller Legislation

On Thursday, the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee favorably reported an amended version of S-2850. The League had opposed this legislation, but the amended version addressed our concerns. We want to thank Senators Oroho and Greenstein for hear...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: May 26, 2023

Legislative Committee Considers Liquor License Reform

On Wednesday, May 24, the Assembly Oversight, Reform, and Federal Relations Committee considered various liquor license reform bills and held a hearing regarding the State’s regulations on liquor licenses for bars and restaurants. The discussion...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: May 19, 2023

General Election Legislation Update

Last week, over the League’s objection, A-5175 was favorably reported from the Assembly State and Local Government Committee and second referenced to the Assembly Appropriations Committee where it was held on Thursday.

While the League supports t...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: May 12, 2023

Governor Murphy Signs Cybersecurity Legislation into Law

Governor Phil Murphy signed A-4836 and A-4184, cybersecurity bills into law this week.  

A-4836 requires the State Office of Emergency Management to develop a plan to address internet outages resulting from cyber-attacks...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: March 10, 2023

Senate Committee Advances Bill to Increase LIHWAP Participation

A bill meant to increase participation in the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) was advanced through Senate committee this week. While the League initially opposed S-3333, amendments were made allowing us to now support the bill.

This ...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: February 3, 2023

Senate State Government Committee Favorably Reports S-3519

The Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism, and Historic Preservation Committee favorably reported S-3519, which makes various changes to primary election, vacancy, municipal referendum, and mail-in ballot mailing deadlines. 

On Thursday, the ...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: December 23, 2022

Senate Judiciary Committee Hears Testimony on Car Theft Prevention

On December 19, the Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony from invited guests concerning the increase in motor vehicle thefts in New Jersey over the last two years and consider a package of legislation.   Invited g...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: December 19, 2022

Third-Party Private Construction Inspection Legislation Approved by Assembly Senate to Consider Bill

On Thursday, the Assembly unanimously approved ACS A-573, with the Senate is scheduled to vote on the legislation on Monday.   The bill would expand the use of third-party private construction inspections, allowing muni...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: December 19, 2022

Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee Hears Testimony on Car Theft Prevention

On December 5, the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee heard testimony from New Jersey State Police Major Larry Williams, Deputy Attorney General Joseph Giordano, and Alexander Shalom, Senior Supervising Attorney and Director of Supreme Court Advocac...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: December 19, 2022

Bill Providing Appropriation Cap Relief Before Senate

On Monday the Senate will be considering S-3380, which would exempt gasoline and diesel fuel costs; solid waste and recycling collection and disposal costs, as well as disposal of yard waste; cyber insurance costs; liability insurance costs; work...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: December 19, 2022

Please Consider Adopting Resolution in Support of Municipal Holiday Tree Burning Events

S-861 would permit municipalities to conduct an annual event for the open burning of holiday trees. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) would be tasked with establishing rules, regulations, and standards for the open burning of C...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: November 11, 2022

Governor Supports Legislation to Combat Auto Theft

On Monday, along with Senate President Nick Scutari and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, Governor Murphy announced his support for proposed legislation to combat auto theft in New Jersey. Among the proposals highlighted:

  • Establishing a persistent auto thef...
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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: August 12, 2022

County and Municipal Airport Financial Law Changes

On August 5, Governor Murphy signed into law legislation that authorizes a county that acquires, establishes, and operates an airport to maintain, operate, and manage the airport as a public utility. In addition, the new law clarifies that counties and mu...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: August 8, 2022

Governor Signs Law Expanding Outdoor Dining Timeframe

On Wednesday, Governor Murphy signed S-2364 into law. The new law expands the time period during which certain restaurants, bars, distilleries, and breweries are allowed to utilize tents, canopies, umbrellas, tables, chairs, and other fixture on ...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: June 29, 2022

Assembly Committee Advances Firefighter Cancer Screening Mandate

On Thursday, the Assembly Appropriations Committee favorably reported A-4127, which mandates access to periodic cancer screening examinations for firefighters who are not enrolled in the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP). This provides for the approxim...

Read on...

Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: June 13, 2022

Acting Governor Scutari Signs Pedicab Alcoholic Beverage Consumption Legislation

The weekend of June 4 while Governor Murphy and Lieutenant Governor Oliver were out of the state on personal business, acting Governor Scutari signed P.L 2022, c.16 allowing for the consumption of alcoholic beverages in pedicabs under the following circum...

Read on...

Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: June 13, 2022

Action Needed to Advance ETR Fund Restoration

A-3804/S-330, which would restore distributions to municipalities from the Energy Tax Receipts Property Tax Municipal Distribution Program (ETR) over two years and require additional funding to be subtracted from the municipal property tax levy, is the fi...

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Legislative Advocacy
Posted on: February 24, 2022

Court Upholds Governor’s Vaccine Mandate Authority for Certain State Workers

Last week, a State appellate panel affirmed Governor Murphy’s authority under the Disaster Control Act and the Emergency Health Act to impose through Executive Order 283, a COVID-19 vaccination mandate on State corrections officers. The NJ Supre...

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Legislative Advocacy

News Flash

Posted on: March 17, 2023

League Hosts USDA Rural Development Webinar

On Thursday, the League hosted a Lunch and Learn with Jane Asselta, USDA Rural Development New Jersey State Director who discussed available funding and loans for municipalities.

Among the programs highlighted where grants and/or loans that are available f...

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Lunch & Learn Events

News Flash

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News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

Municipal Welfare Association of NJ News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of Municipal Welfare Association of NJ. 

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In additio...

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Municipal Welfare Association of NJ

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

NJ State Fire Prevention and Protection Association News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of NJ State Fire Prevention and Protection Association.

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In a...

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NJ Fire Prevention and Protection

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

NJ State Plumbing Inspectors Association News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of NJ State Plumbing Inspectors Association.

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to ...

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NJ State Plumbing Inspectors Association

News Flash

Posted on: May 11, 2018

Correct Version of the State Flag

The League would like to encourage municipalities to purchase the correct version of the State flag. The underskirts of the goddesses are silver as set forth by the NJ legislature in 1928. Non-approved versions show the underskirts incorrectly in blue.

The League would like to encourage municipalities to purchase the correct version of the State flag.On behalf of the New Jersey State Treasury Printing Service, we are distributing this information so that municipalities will be aware of the correct and a...

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Notices

News Flash

News Flash

Posted on: March 16, 2023

Local Government Employer Group Mid-Year Experience Analysis

At the March 8, State Health Benefits Commission (SHBC) meeting, AON, the actuary for the SHBC provided the commission members a mid-year performance overview of the plan. For more information, please read the League’s recent blog post.

Contact: ...

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Pension & Health Benefits
Posted on: February 3, 2023

State Health Benefits Increase Continues to Remain Unresolved

There continues to be no progress in efforts to mitigate the impact of the unprecedented health care contribution increase for State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) participants and employers. As reported last week, employers are beginning to leave the sys...

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Pension & Health Benefits
Posted on: January 9, 2023

State Extends Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance

New Jersey extended its health benefits contract with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield for another year, media outlets report. This occurred after state officials alleged the health insurer failed to meet the terms of the deal.   ...

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Pension & Health Benefits
Posted on: December 30, 2022

SHBP Update: No Relief In New Year

Earlier today the Joint Budget Oversight Committee (JBOC) met to consider items including the transfer of Federal Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Funds. The transfers, which were already outlined in the State budget, included:

  • $300 million for various ca...
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Pension & Health Benefits
Posted on: December 20, 2022

SHBP Municipalities: Reach Out to Governor & Your Legislators

In less than two weeks, the 379 municipalities participating in the State Health Benefits system, along with their employees, and ultimately their taxpayers, will have to fund a 22% increase in health benefits costs. It is imperative that the Governor and...

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Pension & Health Benefits
Posted on: December 19, 2022

Unions and Local Government Management Submit Plan to Address Pending SHPB Increase

The League of Municipalities, the New Jersey Conference of Mayors, the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association, and New Jersey Association of Counties have been working with other interested stakeholders, including the major public sector union representative...

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Pension & Health Benefits
Posted on: November 11, 2022

State Health Benefits Commission Meets – No New Action on SHBP 2023 Increase

Earlier this week, the State Health Benefits Commission (SHBC) met to consider regular business and appeal requests. During the meeting, SHBC Committee member Dudley Burge asked for an update on and solutions to the 22% cost increase in local government h...

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Pension & Health Benefits
Posted on: October 31, 2022

SHBP Plan Design Committee Meets & Labor Launches Campaign

On Oct. 26, the State Health Benefits Plan (SHBP) Plan Design Committee (PDC) held its regularly scheduled meeting. Agenda items included a review of 2023 Dental CDT codes and the bi-annual Optum Rx formulary review.   ...

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Pension & Health Benefits
Posted on: September 14, 2022

State Health Benefits Commission Approves 2023 Rate Increase

Today, during the Annual Rate Renewal meeting of the State Health Benefits Commission (SHBC), the trustees voted to approve a nearly 23% local government health insurance rate increase and a 21% increase in state employee health insurance rates. The three...

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Pension & Health Benefits

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

NJPO News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of NJPO.

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to our more traditional email newslette...

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Planning Officials (NJPO)

News Flash

Posted on: May 26, 2023

DLGS Issues Guidance on Russia-Belarus Certification

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2023-11 providing guidance on the Russia-Belarus Certification. 

We would like to highlight the following from the Notice:

  • Department of Treasury has published a list (Russia...
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Procurement

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

NJSMPA News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of NJSMPA.

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to our more traditional email newslet...

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Prosecutors (NJPO)

News Flash

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

GPANJ News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of GPANJ.

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to our more traditional email newslett...

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Purchasing Agents (GPANJ)

News Flash

Posted on: May 17, 2023

RANJ News Flash

Welcome! This News Flash has been created for members of RANJ.

The New Jersey League of Municipalities offers several methods for you to receive news, announcements, legislative alerts, and event notices. In addition to our more traditional email newslette...

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Registrars NJ (RANJ)

News Flash

News Flash

Posted on: May 26, 2023

SCOTUS Decision Could Impact NJ Property Tax Laws

This week, SCOTUS issued a unanimous decision in Tyler v. Hennepin County, Minnesota, a case where a property owner argued that the Minnesota state law allowing Hennepin County to retain a $25,000 surplus following the auction sale of her home for unpaid ...

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Tax Collectors & Treasurers (TCTANJ)

News Flash

Posted on: June 2, 2023

NJCCIC Updated Ransomware Guide Notice

On May 23, The New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC) released an updated version of the #StopRansomware Guide, jointly published by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Federal Bureau of Investig...

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Technology
Posted on: May 11, 2023

Legislation Signed Concerning Crash Reports

Governor Murphy signed A-4935/S-3335, amending N.J.S.A. 39:4-131 to permit the electronic transmission of crash reports within five days after the law enforcement officer’s investigation of the accident. The Department of Transportation has been...

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Technology