Governor Murphy Toughens Laws Against Auto Theft

Governor Phil Murphy signed a series of bills to continue the fight to combat auto theft in New Jersey. The four bills strengthen the criminal penalties associated with auto theft, with a particular focus on persistent, repeat offenders and large-scale automobile trafficking networks.

“Every person should be able to feel safe and secure in the communities they call home. That is why over the past year we have taken serious steps to crack down on the troubling rise in auto thefts,” said Governor Murphy. “Today’s comprehensive bill signing is an additional step in the right direction. I am grateful to our legislative leaders for recognizing the seriousness of this issue and for taking swift action to bring these bills to my desk. Together, we will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to keep New Jerseyans safe.”

“More than 1 million vehicles are stolen across the U.S. every year. In New Jersey, we are focused on reducing those numbers and this incredibly comprehensive package of bills will give law enforcement the means to do just that,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “Thank you to Gov. Murphy and the Legislature for recognizing the need to give our law enforcement officers and agencies these additional tools. Working with our partners at the local, state and federal level, we are in a greater position to cut the number of vehicle thefts and better protect our residents.” 

Governor Murphy Signs Bill Requiring Provision of Critical Flood Risk Information for Homeowners and Renters

Governor Phil Murphy signed bill S3110/A4783, which requires sellers of property and landlords to make certain notifications regarding flooding. Under the law sponsored by Senator Bob Smith and Assemblyman John McKeon, sellers of real property and landlords must disclose knowledge of a property’s history of flooding, flood risk, and location in a flood zone or area. Additionally, the law requires landlords to notify tenants of the availability of insurance for renters through the National Flood Insurance program.

“Today I’m proud to sign into law legislation that will significantly improve transparency for New Jersey consumers while protecting the interests of our hardworking homeowners and renters,” said Governor Murphy. “For far too long, countless New Jerseyans have lacked the critical information they not only need, but deserve, to make smart, forward-looking decisions for their properties and families. In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ida – and as flooding events continue to increase in frequency and severity – these requirements will help better prepare New Jersey homeowners and renters for extreme storms.”

“Purchasing a home or choosing a rental property in which to live and raise a family is one of the most impactful and long-term financial decisions that we enter in our lives,” said Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver. “The Department of Community Affairs supports legislation mandating that a home seller or landlord fully disclose whether a property is in a FEMA-designated Flood Hazard Area to potential homebuyers or property renters. Being an informed consumer is essential to making sound financial decisions. This bill provides the ethical and deserved clarity one requires to enter a real property transaction.”

Governor Murphy Signs Legislation Expanding Eligible Uses of Sick Leave for School Employees

Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill (A-5060/S-3440) to expand eligible reasons for which a school district employee may use their sick leave.

Previously, school employees could only use their sick leave in connection with a personal disability due to an illness or injury, or if they or someone in their immediate household needed to quarantine due to a contagious illness. The new law expands the list of permissible uses for these employees.

“The past several years have highlighted just how crucial it is to prioritize the health and wellness of our residents, including the hardworking employees who educate New Jersey students and keep our schools running,” said Governor Murphy. “Recovering from a significant and sudden illness or injury is not the only reason an employee may need to take time off. Being able to get preventative health care, address mental health needs, care for a family member, take time to grieve the loss of a loved one, or be there for a child in times of need all play an important part in a person’s overall well-being. This bill recognizes that reality and allows school employees to take the time they need when they need it.”

“Expanding the scope of school district employee sick leave is a crucial step to continue fostering a compassionate and supportive educational environment,” said Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education. “By broadening the permitted reasons for sick leave, we empower our educators to take care of themselves and their loved ones during critical times. This expansion not only promotes a healthier school community, but also demonstrates our commitment to supporting New Jersey’s educational workforce.”

In response to recommendations from the Governor’s Task Force on Public School Shortages, Governor Phil Murphy and the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) announced that Governor Murphy’s budget dedicates $5 million to implement an Educator Certification Fee Holiday. Effective immediately, this initiative aims to alleviate financial burden and streamline the certification process for aspiring educators across the state.

Recognizing the vital role educators play in shaping the future of New Jersey, Governor Murphy and the NJDOE have implemented this groundbreaking program. The Teacher Certification Fee Holiday allows individuals seeking certification to waive the customary fees associated with educator certification applications, renewals, and related services from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024.

This fee holiday is a testament to New Jersey's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for educators, removing barriers to entry, and encouraging talented individuals to pursue teaching careers. By eliminating financial obstacles, the state aims to attract a diverse pool of qualified, passionate and dedicated individuals to the teaching profession, ensuring that New Jersey students receive a high-quality education.

“Our educators play an essential role in shaping the minds of future generations,” said Governor Murphy. “This initiative represents one component of my Administration’s broader efforts to grow our educational workforce. This year’s budget also includes millions of dollars for student teacher living stipends, grants to improve educator quality of life, additional funding for the Teachers Loan Redemption Program, and other initiatives to show our appreciation for all those who choose to dedicate their lives to nurturing New Jersey students. By waiving certification fees over the next year, we will further break down barriers and encourage aspiring educators to join this esteemed profession.”