Follow Us: 
Find your candidates
Want to locate your reps? Our interactive database will take you right to the candidates Start here
Sponsors
Corporate Supporters
Elections 2013
Governor's Race|Legislative Races|Ballot Questions
It’s Raining Political Money on Garden State, Almost All on Democrats
Congressional campaigns are ‘awash in cash.’ Hugin Senate campaign is lone GOP big spender
Plenty of Backers for Big Tax Credit to Rehabilitate Historic Properties in NJ
Homeowners and developers would be eligible for incentive, which could be worth up to 25 percent of the cost of a qualified project
State Officials: Undoing Christie Move Was Good for Patients, Services
Commissioners say reorganization of mental-health and addiction services benefits patients and providers alike
It’s All Upbeat in New Jersey’s Offshore-Wind Update Despite Cost
Lawmakers are briefed on goals and prospects for NJ’s clean-energy industry. Positive financial return and new jobs are emphasized
Where Do MacArthur, Kim Stand on Issues that Matter to Voters in 3rd District?
NJ Spotlight readers in 3rd Congressional District list their priorities. The big items: campaign finance, healthcare, taxation
Op-Ed: Insurance Scammers Will Be the Winners If This Fair-Conduct Law is Enacted
Most insurance claimants in New Jersey are honest, but a new law that could triple damages on insurers for bad-faith dealings would be a boon to the ‘slippery minority’
Collapse of NJ Solar Industry, Big Layoffs If No Interim State Plan — Warning
Executives suggest urgent need for temporary system to incentivize solar development before transition to Murphy administration’s new approach
Stakes High, Tempers Cool as Lance, Malinowski Face Off in CD-7 Debate
Battling for the middle of the road, Republican congressman and Democratic challenger raise the tension on healthcare, taxes, and gun control
NJ Sexual Harassment Policies Pale Beside Those of Corporate America
State department and agency protocols can differ extensively, or be absent entirely — as is the case with the New Jersey Senate, which has no written hiring protocols in place
New Push to Expand Emergency Access to Lifesaving Medicines
Diabetic’s near-death experience helps make case for allowing pharmacies to dispense a month’s worth of meds, even without valid prescription
New Jersey’s Tax System Ranked among Fairest in the Country
Report by left-leaning institute cites progressive income-tax structure and fact that Garden State doesn’t overly rely on sales tax
Op-Ed: What Offshore Wind Could Do for Economy and Jobs in New Jersey
If state delivers on governor’s plan, it would mean a lot for responsible environmental policy and economic development — and for union workers
The Women Leading NJ’s Suburban Resistance to Trump Policies
Unprecedented grassroots activism in Garden State suburbs sprang out of opposition to the president and his policies. Now it’s focused on the midterm elections
Instant Replay: Catching Up with the Debate in Congressional District 7
If you missed the debate between Malinowski and Lance — and the expert commentary from NJ Spotlight and NJTV — here's a chance to come up to speed
Shaping Up for a Big Fight in NJ on Question of Right to a Clean Environment
Supporters seek voter approval for constitutional amendment to copperfasten people’s right. Opponents warn of endless litigation and a stifling of economic development
Lawmakers Urge State to Lock In Pharmacy Benefit Savings
Warning that hundreds of millions of dollars in taxpayer savings will be lost if Treasury officials don’t move quickly on new contract
Cutting Down on Paper in a Bid to Modernize Local Government in NJ
Greater efficiency and savings for taxpayers promised by proponents of a measure ‘that’s really past due’
Commission to Investigate Administration’s Actions in Sexual-Assault Case
Legislative group will also review government hiring practices, conduct of background checks, and how criminal justice system handles allegations of sex offenses
Op-Ed: New Jersey’s Opioid Strategy Is Missing an Important Component
Physicians must be allowed to prescribe opioids, but we need regulations that support drug testing of patients before and during such therapy
In Newark, Reporting Lapses Hide Thousands of Student Suspensions from Public View
Troubling patterns and racial disparities are masked by state’s inaccurate school report cards, giving the false impression that Newark has all but eliminated suspensions
Lance-Malinowski Debate: Live Commentary Here Tonight
NJ Spotlight joins with NJTV News to deliver live commentary on TV debate between the Republican and Democratic candidates in the 7th Congressional District
Governor Responds to Questions about Handling of Sexual-Assault Charge
Hours before leaving on an overseas economic mission, Murphy announces independent investigation into his administration’s hiring of a man accused of sexual assault
Anger in Trenton Over Way Alleged Sexual Assault Was Dealt With
Growing sense of outrage over how Murphy administration handled sexual misconduct case. Republicans want full-scale investigation
New Initiative Would Smooth the Road for Plug-In Electric Vehicles
Comprehensive plan would help clean up the transportation sector, largest source of greenhouse-gas emissions — but at what price?
Setting Out to Fix Major Flaws in the Way New Jersey Funds Higher Education
Lawmakers and administration embark on reorganization to make college more affordable and to improve access and equity
Physical Therapists Win Latest Battle in Turf War with Acupuncturists
Although acupuncturists are vehemently opposed, a measure allowing certain PTs to use “dry needling” to help relieve pain has advanced in the state Assembly
Both Candidates in CD-5 Lean Right, But Republican Hews Closer to Trump
Gottheimer claims he’s known for bipartisan approach, while McCann argues Dems can be part of problem rather than solution. Both candidates favor Trump’s wall
Opinion: NJ Shouldn’t Wait for Federal Funds Before Reducing Flood Damages
The uncertainty of federal funding dictates that New Jersey view every project through the lens of self-funding
CD-11 Recap: Mikie Sherrill vs. Jay Webber
If you missed the debate — and the expert commentary from NJ Spotlight and NJTV — here's a chance to catch up on the key issues
Healthcare Costs Continue to Rise in NJ, Outpacing National Increase
Although record numbers of New Jerseyans now have insurance coverage, the price of healthcare remains a major difficulty for families and small businesses
Governor, Dems Cautioned It’s Time to Repay African-American Support
Weeks before the critical midterm elections, community leaders tell Democrats — especially Gov. Phil Murphy — that they want action on important issues
Grewal ‘Proud to Lead’ Latest Challenge to IRS on Federal Tax Changes
The Internal Revenue Service proposed new rules to stymie ‘blue’ state efforts to get around a federal cap on SALT deductions. Attorneys general reveal how they plan to fight back
State Advised Yet Again to Reject Offshore-Wind Project Near Atlantic City
Consultant tells Board of Public Utilities that Nautilus proposal is too small and would cost New Jersey ratepayers too much
The List: Top Ten Counties in NJ for Federal Farm Subsidies
New Jersey is among the states that reap the least in annual federal aid to farmers, getting only a fraction of the $20 billion paid out
Op-Ed:The Vehicle Emissions Reduction Strategy No One’s Talking About
It’s not enough to promote the use of alternative fuels in New Jersey. We must reduce the total number of miles driven — and to do that, we need to rethink how and where we build
Trying to Repurpose NJ’s Empty or Underused Strip Malls and Offices
There’s a new grant program for municipalities to redevelop ‘ghost malls’ and underutilized commercial properties
Put Vehicles Powered by Fuel Cells in NJ’s Clean-Energy Agenda — Lawmakers Advised
As Murphy administration goes full-speed on its clean-energy program, proponents of fuel cells are worried their technology could be left out
Opinion: It Sure Looks Like DOE Willfully Broke Charter Process to Appease NJEA
Did ‘political payback’ matter more to Murphy and Repollet than the wishes of parents desperate for alternatives to poorly-performing public schools?
Clergy Urge Governor, Lawmakers to Raise Minimum Wage in NJ to $15
With politicians seeming to have become bogged down on issue, religious coalition expresses urgency about addressing Garden State’s widening wage gap
Rutgers Scientists Help to Identify New Way to Test for Lyme Disease
More work to be done for federal approval but new technique promises earlier detection and, therefore, better chance of avoiding serious long-term effects
Fierce Competition for State’s New Medical Marijuana Licenses
Department of Health is expected to name new dispensary operators within weeks
Billed as a National ‘Litmus Test,’ Debate in CD-11 Stays Close to Home
Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jay Webber keep their composure while facing off on federal tax reform, healthcare, student debt, infrastructure — and more
In CD-2, Candidates Clash Over South Jersey's Place in Trump's America
Grossman, Van Drew take off the gloves in debate that goes from raucous to rancorous
State’s $5.1 Million Deal Preserves 2,200 Acres of Watershed
DEP and other funders join forces to acquire Hudson Farm properties in Sussex County, saving forests, streams, and mountaintops
Web Guide to NJ Property Taxes: Everything Except Why They’re So High
Online guidebook walks residents through all the aspects of property taxes, including how the revenue is divvied up, using easy to understand graphics and examples
Poll: Has the Kavanaugh Controversy Swayed You to Vote in the Midterms?
The unprecedented confirmation hearings and subsequent swearing-in of the U.S. Supreme Court’s newest member are influencing voter turnout nationally. Will they send you to the polling booth or keep you away?
Extra Federal Funding Boosts Care for Vulnerable Patients in NJ
A pilot program to give integrated healthcare and support services to thousands dealing with behavioral health challenges gets a financial lifeline
More than 100,000 New Voters in NJ in Recent Months
With the midterm elections looming, twice as many Democrats as Republicans sign up to vote
Audit of NJ Transit Is In, Governor Pledges It Won’t ‘Collect Dust’
Detailed analysis of operational defects, but no definitive solution is offered to agency’s severe financial woes
DEP Launches Blueprint for Making Jersey Shore More Resilient to Climate Change
As UN gives stark climate warning, NJ steps up plans to defend coastal zone from rising seas and bigger storms
Lance, Malinowski Both Swing Hard for 7th District’s Centrist Mantle
Candidates cast themselves as moderates. But, in a season of fevered political partisanship, they take plenty of potshots at each other
Murphy Pledges to Help Workers Whose Jobs Could Fall to Robots, Technology
Governor sets up task force, says New Jersey must prepare for ‘profound impact’ of technological changes
State to Spend Volkswagen Money on Reducing Emissions
Fund, which stems from auto manufacturer’s settlement for cheating on emissions testing, will focus on urban areas, promote electric vehicles
Charter Schools: Where Does Murphy Administration Really Stand?
That’s the big question no one knows the answer to as a major state review of the growing movement gets underway
Countdown to New State Sales Tax on Online Shopping
The big holiday retail season is almost upon us. Likewise, a new state tax on online sales that’s expected to bring New Jersey hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue
Ørsted Looks to Pick Up Deepwater Wind for $510 Million
Danish company’s move indicates growing interest in nascent U.S. offshore-wind sector among European companies
Revamp of Municipal Courts Moves Ahead, Legislation in the Pipeline
Chief Justice pushes reforms, lawmaker offers legislatives fixes after report said local courts should focus more on justice than on money
No Agreement on How to Keep Lid on Health Insurance Costs in NJ
More people in Garden State have access to insurance because of Affordable Care Act but there’s no consensus on how to protect the benefits
Op-Ed: Solar Program Must Work for Underserved Communities in NJ
State’s new solar energy possibilities should be equitable and accessible to all New Jerseyans. It’s up to Board of Public Utilities to make that happen
NJ Sting Operation Uncovers Almost 30 Unlicensed Moving Companies
Unregistered movers aren’t just a safety threat, they’ve been known to hold customers’ worldly goods hostage — or simply disappear with everything they’ve been entrusted with
Building a Better Future One Building Project at a Time
YouthBuild gives participants a place to master skills, earn a GED, and think beyond high school
Making Case for Public Bank in NJ, Even as Murphy Plan for It Hasn’t Materialized
Governor was a big proponent of a state-run bank when on the campaign trail, but he’s said little about it since he’s been in office
Interactive Map: NJ Leans Blue, But Not Everyone Registered Goes to Vote
Trying to call the congressional contests is more of a challenge than ever — gender, education, wealth, age, and race must all be factored into the equation
PSEG Affirms It Will Shut Down Nuclear Plants Unless It Gets Big Subsidies
With $300 million at stake, scrutiny of the plants’ economic viability likely to be the most contested issue
PFAS Levels at NJ Base 24,000 Times Higher than Proposed Fed Standard — Study
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst data shows some PFAS levels also exceed EPA health advisory
Will Van Drew Shift South Jersey’s 2nd District to Democratic Column?
Republican Rep. Frank LoBiondo’s retirement gives conservative state senator a good chance to add to the Democrats’ numbers in Congress
NJ Gets Report Card ‘F’ for Lack of Parity in Insurance Coverage of Mental Health
Advocates give New Jersey — and more than half of other states — a poor grade for failing to support and enforce federal law
New Jersey Ranked ‘Most Improved’ State for Energy Efficiency
Garden State nabs 18th spot in nationwide analysis, up five places from 2017 assessment
PSE&G Agrees to Keep Bills Stable but Fails to Get Go-Ahead for ‘Decoupling’
Utility agrees to re-examine its shutoff policies, particularly for people who rely on medical equipment
PARCC Peace Breaks Out: Compromise Is Reached on High School Testing
Commissioner Repollet and State Board of Education agree on fewer tests, more flexibility. Questions remain
Conservative Group Sues Over NJ Limit on When People Can Quit Labor Unions
Michigan-based organization files suit on behalf of three union members from Lakewood, charges Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation to get around U.S. Supreme Court’s Janus ruling
New State Funding for Autism Center to Boost Research and Treatment
Aim is also to improve services for the thousands of New Jersey residents who have some form of the disorder
Will NJ Employers Be Obligated to Ensure Federal Tax Break for Commuters?
New Jerseyans, like other Americans, can get a nice tax benefit for their commuting costs, but only if their employers sign up for it. State lawmakers want to make that a requirement
Murphy Announces Grants to Gear Up Schools for Science and Tech
School districts have until October 25 to apply for program that’s aimed at bringing computer science, other advanced courses to high schools
Examining the Claim that Leonard Lance is Bipartisan
A new GOP ad maintains the Republican congressman is rated ‘among the most bipartisan in Congress.’ Factchecking website PolitiFact puts that statement to the test
Repollet Hits ‘Pause’ for Charter Schools, Rejects Latest Two Hopefuls
Education commissioner turns down new charter schools for Trenton and Jersey City, as Murphy administration readies major review of the sector
Utilities Submit Proposals for Nuclear Subsidies
While some residential customers may end up paying $30 more annually, large energy users may see their bills rise by $1 million a year
Thousands of Amazon Workers in NJ to Benefit from New $15 Minimum Wage
Online retailer will apply increase from November 1. Decision draws out supporters of statewide wage increase, Gov. Phil Murphy included
Murphy Pledges New Tax Credits, Other Programs for Housing, Communities
Governor says his new economic plan will help rejuvenate rundown neighborhoods, give tax credits for affordable housing
Reversal of Course on Controversial Brewery Regulations
A contentious directive, meant to severely limit the activities of craft breweries in New Jersey, has been suspended after a large outcry
Opinion: Pension Discount Rate and Investment Rate Are Not the Same Thing
Pension discussions rely on a very specialized vocabulary. Confusing discount rate and investment rate makes it all too easy to go wrong when projecting liabilities
Murphy’s Technology-Driven Tomorrow Starts with $500M Venture Capital Fund
In major policy address, governor envisions 300,000 new jobs by 2025, says aggressive clean-energy goals and increased financial aid for community college will help state reach that number
11th District Leans Red but Democrats Think Sherrill Can Flip It to Blue
Democrats are fighting hard to chalk up a win in this affluent district as they try to take control of the House of Representatives in next month’s election
NJ Lawmakers Seek More Control Over Price of Prescriptions
Taking a page out of Sen. Bernie Sanders’ book, state Sen. Troy Singleton wants to peg cost of drugs here to what drug companies charge in some industrialized countries
New Push to Target Low-Income Communities for Solar Projects
Low- and moderate-income New Jerseyans have for the most part been left out of growing renewable-energy developments in the state. That may be about to change
Op-Ed: Commissioner Repollet’s School Testing Revisions Make Sense
State Board of Education should adopt education commissioner’s proposed changes as best way to prove students are meeting requirements
Refugee Admissions from Muslim Nations Decline, Russian Numbers Rise
Refugees arriving in New Jersey and New York from places like Iraq and Syria are way down, reflecting Trump administration’s clampdown
Sweeney Panel Proposes ‘401(k) Pension’ for Some State, Local Workers
Unions are already mobilizing against key recommendation from Senate President’s fiscal policy experts, who say pension change could save the state billions of dollars
Latest Opioid Data: Good and Bad News for New Jersey
Fewer prescriptions are being written in the Garden State but overdose deaths show no sign of abating
State’s Tidal Wetlands Could Be Swamped by Rising Seas — Report
Thousands of acres of tidal wetlands in the region, including in New Jersey, said to be at risk from effects of climate change
It Just Became Easier to Clean A Criminal Record in the Garden State
Courts already deal with 10,000 expungement applications annually. Reforms ‘will open the door’ for thousands more to apply
Gateway Program Names Financial Adviser, Funding Still Uncertain
No indication yet from Trump administration that federal assistance will be forthcoming, but corporation in charge wants to be ready
PSE&G Wants to Spend $4B on Clean Energy in Six Years
Utility proposes range of investments that could make it leading force in state’s energy policy. Not everyone’s reassured by that prospect
Is There Anything More to New Jersey’s U.S. Senate Race than Negative Ads?
With six weeks to go to the election, New Jersey voters have suffered through a stream of negative ads — but neither Menendez nor Hugin has touched on substantive issues
NJ Legislature Unanimously Approves Tougher Sexual Harassment Policy
New policy specifies mandatory anti-harassment training for lawmakers, applies to staff, lobbyists, journalists — virtually all those doing business in State House
Public Pension Funds Beat Expectations for 2018, Might Be Hard to Repeat
New Jersey has one of the worst-funded public retirement systems in the country. But it got good news yesterday, with better than expected investment returns
After a Few Glitches, Lucrative Tax Credits for AC Airport Are Almost There
Plan to diversify the South Jersey economy with a ‘growth zone’ focuses on aviation and technology. But further incentives are up in the air
Op-Ed: Five Reasons Why New Jersey Will Once Again Fail to Resolve School Testing
We refuse to learn from experience, we want easy solutions, we’re not interested in other points of view, and winning is everything
NJ Spotlight Roundtable: NJ's Energy Future — Energy Efficiency
In this Part 4 of a five-event series on New Jersey’s Energy Future, we explore energy efficiency
Another Year, Another Attendance Campaign for Newark Schools
Can the district’s new superintendent, Roger León, succeed where his predecessors failed?
New Jersey’s Newest Gangs: Younger, More Violent, and Posting their Crimes Online
Children as young as eight years old are in neighborhood gangs that use social media as ‘electronic billboards’ to intimidate rivals, show off weapons
MacArthur Attacks, Kim Pushes Back in South Jersey’s 3rd District
Could Democrat Andy Kim ride a blue wave big enough to swamp the sitting congressman? MacArthur’s tough tactics suggest the polls are correct — and the race is tight
Does NJ Need Stormwater Utilities to Stem Polluted Runoff and Flooding?
The utilities, common in other states, would levy fees on residents and businesses to fund improvements in stormwater systems
Opinion: Legalizing Marijuana — Not So Easy, After All, Governor?
The rest of Murphy’s legislative agenda will suffer if this campaign promise is not delivered soon, but that prospect looks to be at least a year away
Temporary Fare Break for Rail Customers as NJ Transit Cuts Services (Temporarily)
As agency rushes to install safety equipment, service cuts will affect some of its busiest lines.
Fare discount is meant to cushion the blow
Lawmakers Plan to Ban Plastic Carryout Bags, Straws, Food Containers
Adding a 10-cent fee on paper bags, according to proponents, should encourage consumers to switch to environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic
State Issues New Rules on SALT Workaround And Gives Warning About IRS
Attorney General says he will fight IRS in court if need be, as Murphy administration looks to help residents avoid hefty tax hikes because of federal cap on deductions
Lance, Malinowski Duel in Critically Close 7th District
Analysts say this race is one of the keys to deciding whether Republicans or Democrats will be in control of Congress after the election
Integration, Continuity of Care Key to Treating Opioid Addiction, Report Says
New Jersey Reentry Corp. urges state to institute an ‘addiction treatment infrastructure’
Camden Schools Get Something to Celebrate: PARCC Scores Are Picking Up
One renaissance school — Camden Prep — sees double-digit jumps in test results; other city schools post more modest gains
Calling for More Street Smarts in New Jersey
Pedestrian safety is a serious issue in the Garden State. A new campaign is aimed at getting everybody to take more care
Menendez Challenger Is Also Carrying Baggage of His Own
Bob Hugin, the Republican challenger out to unseat Sen. Bob Menendez, has skeletons in his own corporate closet
Modernizing the Grid in NJ Vital to Achieving Clean-Energy Targets
State urged to move away from traditional transmission and distribution lines, concentrate instead on ‘non-wire’ new technologies
New Jersey’s Youngest Parents: Short on Skills, Cash, and a Viable Future
Without education and training — or even affordable childcare — the Garden State’s youngest families can trap two generations in a cycle of poverty and disappointment, report says
State Taps National Expert to Monitor Troubled Bellwether Homes
Experienced ombudsman hired at provider’s expense to review care, services, staffing, and accountability — among other issues
Bigger NJ Tax on Aviation Fuel Advances, United Airlines Not Pleased
Millions of dollars in increased revenue eyed to fund extension of PATH train service to Newark airport. United spokesman raises prospect of re-evaluating future investments in New Jersey
NJ Lawmakers Rally on Behalf of Judge Kavanaugh’s Accusers
State senators protest possible advancement of Supreme Court nominee as New Jersey legislators review their own sexual-harassment policies
Clergy Ask Coughlin to Help Change How Fatal Police Shootings Are Investigated
Pastors want Assembly Speaker to release legislation requiring Attorney General to take over in cases of killings by police
Op-Ed: Our Governor and Others Are All Wrong About the Federal Tax Reforms
GOP tax changes are fueling ‘incredible economic growth.’ Murphy and his peers are wasting taxpayer money trying to overturn them
Registered to Vote? Here’s a Checklist to Make Sure You Can Cast Your Ballot
There’s no need to sit out this critical midterm election, not when it’s this easy to register
The Challenge Facing New Jersey’s Suburbs: ‘Adapt in Order to Survive’
Could suburban communities really empty out if officials don’t plan better to meet the demand for vibrant, walkable neighborhoods?
NJ Among Most Vulnerable States if Recession Hits — Ratings Analysts
Moody’s, S&P fault Trenton’s reliance on last-minute scrambling for one-time sources of revenue, inadequate reserves, and absence of sustainable fiscal policies
Fresh Impetus for Energy-Saving Measures in NJ, But State Has Fallen Far Behind
For years, energy conservation has been a state priority more in theory than in practice. The Murphy administration has set new goals, but there’s disagreement about how to achieve them
New Federal and State Funds to Help Anti-Addiction Fight in Garden State
The money will go for prevention and treatment of opioid addiction. More than 2,000 New Jersey residents have died this year of drug-related causes
NJ Leaders are Putting State on Right Path for Cannabis Legalization
One of the most significant aspects of this measure is that it has been crafted to discourage consumers from turning or returning to the black market
Concerns that Legalized Sports Betting Will Worsen Problem Gambling in NJ
Recent legalization has made it very easy to place a wager in New Jersey. Some are predicting that gambling addiction will rise among New Jerseyans as a result
Democratic Convention: Firing Up the Faithful for Midterm Elections
With their sights set on flipping Republican congressional seats in November, New Jersey Democrats get animated
Sarlo Announces Money-Saving Reforms of Public-Employee Medical Claims
Move, coming hot on the heels of governor’s benefit reform plan, is held out as potentially saving taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars
Murphy Rows in With Continuing State Oversight of Atlantic City
Takeover won’t end any time soon, as new report points to ongoing ‘fiscal, operational, economic and social challenges’
Foreclosures Way Down In NJ, New Proposals for Ways to Ease Process Further
Numbers have been reduced to fewer than 28,000 but report recommends many improvements, including counseling and mediation services
Utilities in NJ to Be Let Get More Aggressive Trimming Trees, Clearing Vegetation?
Massive power outages during spring storms precipitated review of utilities’ rights to manage vegetation. Critics say proposed legislation goes too far
Murphy Calls for Bergen County Sheriff to Go, After Racist Remarks Caught on Tape
WNYC obtained a secret recording of Sheriff Michael Saudino speaking offensively about black people and Attorney General Gurbir Grewal
Op-Ed: Can We Have Recreational Marijuana Dispensaries, Please?
With good local ordinances, there’s no reason adult access to the drug can’t be made easy, safe, and a raiser of revenue for New Jersey
Governor Positive of Better Days Ahead for NJ Transit, Tackling Thorniest Issues
After another difficult summer for commuters, Murphy says his administration is ‘obsessed’ with fixing the problem-plagued agency
Federal Grant Helps Rutgers Assess Truth in Advertising for Tobacco Products
University and academic partners will share $18 million grant to study impact of cigarette advertising, packaging, labeling, and more
Poll: Should PARCC Testing Stay or Should It Go?
The standardized test of NJ public school students has been controversial from the get-go. Opponents can’t wait for its demise. Supporters say it has its merits. Where do you stand?
Natural Gas Utility Gets Go-Ahead for $135M Energy-Efficiency Measures
NJNG will extend its popular SaveGreen Project and offer residential, commercial, and industrial customers ways to lower their bills
Op-Ed: Pallone Needs to Help Reform Renewable Fuel Standard
Adding ethanol to gasoline is a perfect example of unintended environmental and economic consequences
Menendez Accuses His GOP Challenger of Running ‘Deceptive Campaign’
New Jersey’s senior senator says this election contest is more negative than he expected
Hudson County Launches Pilot to House Chronically Homeless
Initiative melds rental vouchers and intensive support services from two hospitals to help get homeless off the street and keep them off
Momentum for State to Buy Foreclosed Homes, Turn Into Affordable Housing
Similar measures failed repeatedly under Gov. Christie, but proponents optimistic his successor will look favorably on plan to remake thousands of bank-owned homes
Trying to Spur EV in NJ with Wave of Fast-Charging Stations, Rebates
Months of negotiations have led to a new effort to electrify New Jersey’s transportation sector with a measure that tries to allay ‘range anxiety’ for consumers
Atlantic Health Expands Pioneering Form of Medical Education
In contrast with traditional programs, students will follow a select group of patients, tracking their care in hospitals and community-based facilities
Governor Punts on PARCC as Fate of Controversial School Test Still Unclear
Murphy maintains his opposition to the ‘high-stakes’ exam but defers to state education commissioner on whether and when it will be replaced
Stalled by Budget Mix-Up, State Funding Now in Offing to Help Local Media
Aim is to foster local journalism in New Jersey and fill the void created by newspaper cutbacks. $5 million in aid is being sought
Op-Ed: Continuity of Care Is Good Medicine for Patients — and Doctors
Unfortunately, the trend is for less continuity and more fragmentation. As a result, the patient-physician relationship is weaker and less effective than it used to be
Elections 2018 — An Interactive Guide to New Jersey's Critical Contests
Stay ahead of the issues and on top of the news, from district profiles and local polling places to in-depth analysis and campaign finances
NJ Ready to Solicit Bids for 1,100 Megawatts of Offshore Wind
Solicitation expected to be just first step in realizing governor’s aggressive goal of 3,500 megawatts by 2030
Murphy’s Revisions to Public-Employee Health Plans Could Save Taxpayers $500M
Workers should see only slight increases to premiums, or possibly small reductions, while governor claims the deal shows what happens when cooperation replaces conflict
Edgy Debate in Trenton Over Murphy’s Planned Changes to School Testing
Democratic legislators clash with education commissioner, suggest administration is moving to scale back and ultimately ditch controversial PARCC test without having properly prepared a replacement
Lawmakers Move to Restore Mental-Health Hotline for Firefighters, EMS
Specially trained operators would help emergency responders deal with the traumas that can come with their stressful line of work
NJ Spotlight: The Opioid Epidemic in NJ — Addiction Treatment
The second in this three-part NJ Spotlight roundtable gave those on the front lines of the war against opioid addiction the opportunity to share their findings
Op-Ed: Independent Citizens, Not Partisan Politicians, Must Tackle Redistricting
A call for legislative redistricting in New Jersey to be taken out of political hands and given to an Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission
As Gas Consumption Sags in NJ, State Tax on it Set to Rise Next Month
Further increases are possible, linked to maintenance of funding for transportation and infrastructure projects
Experts Call for More Providers, Better Access to Meds to Combat Opioid Crisis
State Human Services Commissioner among those who agree that, while progress has been made, New Jersey has significant gaps in treatment and recovery services
Interactive Map: NJ’s Election Spending, Where’s the Cash Coming from?
An unusually large number of competitive contests for New Jersey’s congressional seats, a Senate candidate with deep pockets, and funding from outside groups make for costliest election ever
The Future of Nuclear Power in New Jersey: Crucial Hearings Set to Begin
With public hearings imminent, the debate begins in earnest about what part nuclear should play in the state’s future and whether utility customers should pay billions of dollars to prop it up
Conflict Continues Over What It Should Take to Graduate High School in NJ
State wants to give students option of more than one type of test to graduate, but debate is strong over consequences, unintended and not
Op-Ed: Let’s Be Smart About Community Solar in New Jersey
NJ’s recently signed energy legislation will allow many more residents and businesses to access solar energy. We must learn from other states how to do it well
Dollar Signs and Smiles All Round After First Three Months of Sports Betting
Gamblers in New Jersey bet close to $100 million on sporting events last month. Operators and lawmakers salivate at prospect of growing revenue
Countdown to Critical First Step in Offshore-Wind Application Process
Key action for governor’s ambitious clean-energy goals imminent, as developers press to take advantage of federal tax credits
Officials Defend Pace of Coastal Back Bays Study as Residents Fend off Floods
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers considers range of defenses, including new floodwalls and storm-surge gates, but construction unlikely before 2026
Push to Improve Insurance Coverage of Mental Health for New Jerseyans
Legislators advance measure seeking to ensure same level of benefits as for medical issues. It could ease financial burden on families
DRBC Seeks to Block PennEast from Cutting Trees Along Pipeline Route
Agency fears damage to water resources from premature felling of trees but is told it must resubmit request through proper channels
Op-Ed: Paid Family Leave Helps Babies, Not Just Their Parents
With members of a state Senate committee expected to vote Monday on a bill to expand family leave in New Jersey, the benefits should be clear
How to Boost Jersey Shore Tourism: End State Diversion of Revenue for a Start
If the region wants to extend its season, it needs more events, better marketing, and improved transportation — and the state to stop siphoning off hotel-room taxes
Governor Urged to Block Discharge of Fracking Waste in Delaware River Basin
A ban on fracking in the watershed is expected later this year, but there’s still a proposal to allow discharge of fracking waste in the region. Murphy is being asked to prevent that happening
Incomes Rose in NJ Last Year but Significant Number of Residents Remain in Poverty
Earnings rose for New Jerseyans in 2017, according to new census data, and fewer people were categorized as poor. Women continue to earn less than men
In Surprise Move, State Board Tables Vote on Cutting Back PARCC
Board president and education commissioner say more discussion needed, but some wonder if there were enough votes to make the change
Legislation Aims to Improve, Update Medicaid’s Eligibility Process
Lawmakers, healthcare advocates push to update application process and more
Forcing NJ Universities to Come Clean on All their Hidden Fees
The cost of tuition at colleges and universities in the state is one thing. But many students are blindsided by extra ‘hidden’ fees and legislators are pushing for transparency
Op-Ed: The War on Cannabis Has Failed — Let’s Be Smart About Legalizing It in NJ
With the legalization of cannabis approaching for New Jersey, we can draw on the experience of other states to get it right
Watch Out, New Jersey Voters, Mail-In Ballot Rules Have Changed
Residents who voted by mail in 2016 have been automatically registered to cast their ballots by mail in 2018
GOP Rub SALT in Wound, Push for Permanent Cap on Tax Deduction
Adding to woe for New Jerseyans, IRS undercuts Murphy administration’s attempt to help taxpayers get around federal limit on deduction for state and local taxes
NJ Urged to Electrify Transit Sector Rapidly, Starting with Bus Fleet
There isn’t a single electric bus in NJ Transit’s fleet of 2,200 vehicles. Environmentalists are pushing for that to change posthaste
What Do You Want to Know about Medicaid in NJ? New Website Has Answers
Data Dashboard, open to all, is aimed at making information more accessible and should help with decisions about allocating funds
There’s Money for Upgrading NJ Election Security but Little for Vital Paper Trail
Despite expert opinion that, without paper ballots, New Jersey’s election system is far from secure, state allots negligible amount to remedy that weakness
Op-Ed: Life Sciences Are Key to Building an ‘Innovation Economy’ in New Jersey
Biopharmaceutical, biotech and medical technology companies comprise one of the state’s strongest sectors. They’re crucial to generating new jobs, products and services
MacArthur Accuses Democratic Challenger of Puffing Up Résumé
Republican congressman swings hard at Andy Kim, his Democratic opponent in 3rd Congressional District, calls him ‘a fraud’
Stricter Chinese Recycling Rules Make It Harder to Dispose of Waste in NJ
China will no longer accept some materials and wants others to be much cleaner. As a result, recycling has become more complicated and more expensive for communities across New Jersey
New Federal Guidelines Seek to Limit CT Scans on Kids
Similar protocols have already been adopted by some New Jersey hospitals and healthcare providers to help keep children from possible harm
Tech and Aviation Center at Atlantic City Airport Can’t Get off Ground
Murphy CV of lawmakers’ plan to offer tax incentives to attract industry to area once again earns the ire of Sweeney, one of the sponsors of proposed measure
Law Requiring Minimum Recess in Elementary Schools Is Put on Hold
Years in the making, a new obligation for elementary schools to provide at least 20 minutes of recess daily won’t go into effect this year
Millennials Not Hotfooting It Out of New Jersey After All — Report
Painting a different picture from two recent studies, a new report finds that young adults are not leaving the Garden State any faster than previous generations
Op-Ed: Why Unions are More Vital than Ever for All Workers in New Jersey
As union membership continues to decline in the Garden State, it’s worth remembering that unions have been crucial in raising wages for all workers
All NJ State Troopers Will Be Wearing Body Cameras by Next Summer
Attorney General confident that most interactions with police are positive, so ‘we invite the scrutiny’
Cost of Health Insurance on Individual Market in NJ to Drop Significantly in 2019
Governor heralds new state law and federal approval of another New Jersey program as main factors in curbing prices
Sharp Divisions over Nuclear, Natural Gas in State’s New Energy Plan
At a hearing on updating New Jersey’s energy master plan, significant differences are raised over what the energy mix could — or should — be
NJ’s Missing Apprentices: State Urged to Do More to Increase their Number
New Jersey compares poorly with other states when it comes to supporting apprenticeship programs. Report urges policymakers to introduce robust incentives
Opinion: A Good Start Toward a Multiyear Budget Strategy for New Jersey
There are no quick fixes for the state’s ongoing budget crisis, but the best place to begin is with the chronically underfunded pension system
The Man at the Center of New Jersey’s Affordable Housing Debate
Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly, new chairman of key housing committee, says the conversation on fair and cost-effective accommodation in Garden State has just begun
Death of Child after She Was Detained by ICE Sparks NJ Protest
Guatemalan girl was put on plane in Texas and sent to New Jersey even though she was sick. She died shortly after arriving in Garden State
Is It Time for New Jersey to License Undocumented Drivers?
Advocates and some legislators say it’s more than time. Besides, given NJ’s car culture, a fair number of undocumented residents are already behind the wheel — illegally
AG Launches Investigation into Possible Sex Crimes Involving Catholic Priests
Allegations of extensive clerical child abuse in Pennsylvania prompt Grewal to create task force, establish new sex-abuse hotline
As Public Concern About PFAS Climbs, EPA Urged to Set Enforceable Standard
At congressional hearing, advocates say federal government needs to address contamination worries
EPA Funds Will Help Garden State Resolve Some of Its Water Woes
The $84 million to be distributed across New Jersey will go toward addressing outstanding issues with sewage treatment and drinking water
State Hospital Group Launches Data Analysis Initiative
The New Jersey Hospital Association’s CHART program will harness predictive computer modeling, data mining to focus on NJ’s healthcare challenges
Op-Ed: More Than Academics — It’s Time to Elevate HS Graduation Requirements
It’s up to the state Board of Education to continue New Jersey’s national leadership in innovation and quality education
NJ Legislators Offer Plan to Reduce Impact of Medical Debt
Measure would require providers to work out payment plans before turning bills over to collection agencies, better protect disabled patients
Would Newark Airport Pay Increase Give Murphy His Minimum-Wage Victory?
The governor campaigned on a promise to boost the minimum wage. If the Port Authority votes to raise salaries of airport workers, has Murphy made good on his pledge?
Pilot Community Solar Project Could Be Getting Its Moment in the Sun
Murphy administration looks to deliver the benefits of solar power to low- and moderate-income customers
State’s Complete Count Commission Knows NJ Can’t Afford a Sloppy Census
But there are daunting challenges ahead, like making sure hard-to-count populations — such as undocumented immigrants and the urban poor — participate fully in 2020 Census
Opinion: New Jersey’s Short-Term Fiscal Fixes Mean Long-Term Disaster
The ‘Sweeney commission’ has shown that one-shots and other revenue gimmicks can only lead to trouble, but will the pols and the public unions give them up?
Biden Stumps for Sherrill, Blasts Trump Administration, at Campaign Rally
Gov. Murphy calls for leaders who talk to their constituents, rather than tweet
Can New Jersey Save Its Long-Neglected Psychiatric Hospitals?
The state DOH says it’s already acting on a multifaceted plan commissioned by Christie administration but only recently delivered
Newark’s New Schools Superintendent: Interview with a Change Agent
Just six days into the new school year, Roger León looks to the future with confidence and conviction
Talk About Stalled Trans-Hudson Tunnel, Portal Bridge Takes on Ominous Tone
New Jersey officials cite national security and commuter safety — and the Titanic — as they urge Trump administration to make good on promises about infrastructure investments
NJ Becomes First State to Regulate Carcinogenic Chemical as EPA Lags
Garden State water systems must start testing for PFNA in early 2019
Murphy Boosts Medical Education Funding, Tweaks Plan for Hospital Aid
Governor signs bill that could add $24 million to funds for graduate medical studies, CVs measure increasing Medicaid to charity-care facilities
NJ Dems Warn Trump Supreme Court Nominee Threat to Gun Safety
Sen. Bob Menendez and Bill Castner — Murphy’s gun-control czar — argue that if appointed Judge Kavanaugh could undermine state’s tough stand on gun violence
Gov. Murphy Pledged, But Hasn't Delivered, Funds for Immigrants
NJ's chief executive allocated $2.1 million for legal aid for immigrants in the budget approved in July
In NJ, Incidence of STDs Increases While People Are Having Less Sex
Double-digit growth of sexually transmitted diseases in Garden State tracks national trends
Candidates Continue to Turn Up the Heat in NJ’s Hottest Campaigns
An unexpectedly narrow margin in the state’s Senate race, and plenty of outside money buying TV spots and looking to flip red districts, are keeping some New Jersey’s contests on the boil
Back to School in NJ Means Big Changes in Testing and Funding …
… and a potentially controversial push for district consolidation waiting in the wings
Express Toll Lanes Could Help NJ Motorists Steer Clear of Congestion
A proposal to build high occupancy toll lanes on state’s most crowded highways is getting serious consideration from Sweeney and Sarlo
BPU Gets Down to Job of Deciding Which Nuclear Plants Will Be Subsidized
Agency to follow two-step process, creating zero-emission credit program and then determining which applicants qualify for ratepayer subsidies
New Jersey Expands Medicaid Coverage for End-of-Life Planning
Changes will help ensure clients’ final wishes are heeded and should save costs on unwanted, unnecessary medical care
Summer Reading 2018: Classic Coming-of-Age Novella Set in NJ in Early ‘60s
Of his home city, Philip Roth’s protagonist has a, ‘deep knowledge of Newark, an attachment so rooted that it could not help but branch out into affection’
Summer Reading 2018: A Historian Traces the Roots of NJ’s Tree-Shaded Suburbs
In his contribution to Lurie and Veit’s omnibus history of the Garden State, Howard Gillette explores the rise of the suburbs and their ‘uncertain future’
Summer Reading 2018: Blind — and on the Threshold of Adolescence
Kristen Witucki chronicles a young woman's struggles both with her blindness and with the perils and pitfalls of a pivotal time in her life
Summer Reading 2018: How the Railroads Created Atlantic City
According to Dominick Mazzegetti, the railroads didn’t just make AC possible, they normalized the idea of the ‘vacation’
Summer Reading 2018: The Heartbreaking, Impossible Task of Becoming White
When Morgan Jerkins was 10 years old, the only thing this young black woman “wanted was to be a white cheerleader”
Summer Reading 2018: Rebuilding a World Shattered by Kristallnacht
Fred Behrend and Larry Hanover chronicle Behrend’s journey from Nazi Germany to the suburban streets of Voorhees — and his undaunted drive to tell his family’s story
Summer Reading 2018: Just Enough Dark to See Things Clearly
In her book 'The Things a Body Might Become,' poet Emari DiGiorgio refuses to avert her gaze from the most disturbing events or ignore the most sustaining
Summer Reading 2018: Understanding Black Life in NJ, From 1664 to Today
According to author Graham Russell Hodges, “Black New Jersey” speaks to African-American aspirations for freedom and equality and about our nation’s legacies of slavery and racism
Summer Reading 2018: Living Along the Underground Railroad
The personal and historical past coexist easily in Mimi Schwartz’s lively recounting of life in a Princeton cul-de-sac
Summer Reading 2018: The Hard-Won Battle to Ban Assault Weapons in NJ
Former Governor James J. Florio details his struggle to ban assault weapons in New Jersey, a victory that cost the Democrats both the state Senate and the state Assembly
Sweeney Says It’s Time to Get Serious About Consolidating Schools in New Jersey
It’s not just about saving money, Senate President maintains, but delivering better education at a lower cost
Lawmakers Discuss Easing Residency Requirement for NJ Transit Workers
Shortage of engineers has added to agency’s troubles this summer. Governor supports hiring workers from neighboring states
Wind Power in New Jersey: How Big and How Soon?
New report suggests Garden State is uniquely placed to make hay with wind, but critics have doubts and developers say state must push the process
Explainer: Platinum Versus Gold Health-Insurance Plans for NJ Public Workers
Bipartisan panel suggests going to less expensive health insurance could save taxpayers $1.4 billion within a few years
State GOP Leader Not Worried About Key Congressional Races
While New Jersey Democrats think they can flip five critical seats in November election, GOP party chairman disputes the possibility
NJ Gas Tax Likely to Increase Because Revenue Is Coming Up Short of Target
Final decision a couple of weeks away, but tax is likely to be raised by a few pennies to maintain the Transportation Trust Fund
Move in Congress to Weaken Clean Water Act Could Have Big Impact in New Jersey
Opponents of PennEast pipeline say if law is revamped, it would make it ‘extremely difficult’ to fight such projects
Gearing Up for the Future: New Jersey Gets its First Innovation Chief
Veteran of Obama administration, tech and academic worlds, is given job of harnessing tech to update government in New Jersey
Explainer: How New Jersey’s Court-Approved Plans for Affordable Housing Work
NJ’s plans for affordable housing are blueprints that do not require municipalities to build a single home
Incidence of Driving While Drugged Has Risen Sharply on NJ Roads
Report says more drivers who were killed on New Jersey’s roads in 2015 and 2016 tested positive for drugs than for alcohol
Op-Ed: Shifting Services for Seniors, Disabled People in NJ Away from Nursing Homes
How New Jersey has gradually moved the focus of Medicaid care for seniors and people with disabilities from nursing homes to their own homes and communities
We Are Not America’s Enemy
NJ Spotlight stands with the hundreds of other news organizations across the country that today are contesting the accusation that they are an ‘enemy of the people’
Trump Tariffs Squeeze New Jersey Manufacturers, Disrupt Supply Chain
The tariffs ‘have been pretty much a nightmare,’ one executive tells lawmakers, who want to help but are not able to do much to protect local industry
Owner Guilty of ‘Extreme’ Violation of Law that Preserves NJ Farmland
Supreme Court rules that alterations to field destroyed it for other agricultural uses, criticizes state for failing to give clear guidelines on what’s allowed on preserved agricultural land
The List: Taking the Measure of New Jersey’s Ten Tallest Lighthouses
The lonely job of lighthouse keeper has been eliminated by automation, but visiting one of the state’s historic lighthouses — and in some cases climbing to the top — is a great summer outing
Op-Ed: Ban Cars from Lincoln Tunnel at Rush Hour to Make It through Route 495 Repairs
The logical way to ease congestion is to reduce the number of vehicles entering the tunnel
Three Friends and the Rise of Sikh Political Power
From a tent pitched on a patch of dirt in Bergen County to a beautiful temple in Glen Rock, Sikhs are coming into their own
Murphy Signs Legislation to Expand Range of Public-Private Partnerships
Senate President Sweeney concurs that bipartisan bill could help NJ lead the nation in infrastructure investments
DOT’s Prescription for Route 495 Repair Headaches: Patience
We’re facing two-and-a-half years of major disruption into and out of the Lincoln Tunnel as repair work on the Route 495 Viaduct goes into high gear this week
Medical Care for NJ’s Poor, No Insurance Needed
The federally qualified health center in Jersey City, like the 133 other satellite locations across the state, delivers care to the uninsured and the underinsured
After Weekend of Floods, State of Emergency in Five New Jersey Counties
Torrential rainfall and rising river washes more than 40 SUVs from local car dealership
New Jersey Expands Stigma-Free Healthcare for LGBTQ Residents
Clinics, support groups, hospitals are adopting policies designed to promote equitable and inclusive care
FERC Rebuffs Requests to Reconsider Approval of PennEast Pipeline
Opponents to take their case to federal courts, where they believe they have still a chance to stop the natural-gas project
Tougher Ethics Rules for Council that Guides Public Pension Investments
Questions raised about some previous decisions have led to new restrictions on panel that determines broad strategies and asset allocation for public-worker pension system
Op-Ed: Learn from Europe, Keep Wind Generation and Transmission Separate
Building an offshore grid for New Jersey separately from wind farms is the key to creating fair competition
Immigrant Advocates Tell Pols, Don’t Ignore Detainees in County Jails
Elizabeth Detention Center gets the most press, but the majority of undocumented immigrants rounded up by the Trump administration are in county facilities
State Actions Help Keep Lid on Health Insurance Rate Hikes in NJ
Prices will increase but by far less than for consumers in most other states, as New Jersey is ‘working aggressively’ to counter federal changes to Affordable Care Act
Making More of — and from — NJ’s Revolutionary Heritage
State urged to do more to promote New Jersey’s central role in American Revolution as 250th anniversary approaches. Future economic benefits are emphasized
Map Zeroes in on Pollution in Delaware River Watershed
A new interactive map shows threats, old and new, to vital water source. It underlines challenges that remain for river that ‘has come back from the brink’
Opinion: Few Municipalities in NJ Will Create Stormwater Utilities, But Some Should
The need to improve stormwater management is increasing every year. Costs will rise, putting pressure on local government budgets
Cut Public-Worker Benefits, Merge School Districts — Sweeney Panel Recommends
Commission assembled by Senate President proposes aggressive measures to address New Jersey’s fiscal problems. Teachers union responds in the negative, governor noncommital
Cancer Care, Prevention: How New Jersey Measures Up
New report says NJ does well on cancer screenings and general care, not as well on palliative care and pain medication. But report omits recent state initiatives
Opinion: Why Is the DEP Pushing to Dump ‘Dredge Spoils’ in West Creek?
Stopping the state agency from dumping foul-smelling muck in this community is a perfect chance for Murphy administration to demonstrate its green credentials
Court Rules Jersey City Can Keep Some Funds from Failed Journal Square Project
Appellate court decides municipality must return $2 million to developer but can hold onto $700,000 paid into affordable-housing trust fund
Federal Court Blocks EPA From Rolling Back Pesticide Ban
Appeals court says federal agency can’t ease restrictions on chlorpyrifos, so New Jersey doesn’t have to enact its own prohibition
Murphy to NJ Transit Commuters: There’s No Quick Fix in the Offing
Governor appreciates that most train engineers are giving their all, but cites a ‘small population’ responsible for most cancellations
NJ Transit Boosts Budget, While Commuters Line Up to Complain About Service
State agency votes to increase operating and capital budgets by $200 million all told, admits the addition will stem but not solve ongoing problems
State Supreme Court Sides with Legislature over Christie-Era Job Rule
Court affirms right of lawmakers to override actions by state agencies, repudiates effort to weaken civil service protections
Another Natural-Gas Power Plant in the Pipeline for New Jersey
CPV seeks approvals to build a second plant adjacent to its current unit, but environmentalists argue project flies in face of clean-energy goals
Shock for Three School Districts as New Funding Comes Up Way Short
Recent landmark reform was supposed to correct big imbalances in state aid to schools. Glassboro and two other districts get a nasty surprise
State Expands Addiction Treatment for Prisoners
Eighty percent of inmates in Garden State were under the influence of drugs when they committed the crime that put them behind bars
Op-Ed: PARCC’s Going, But We Will Still Need Objective Assessment Data
Murphy administration’s proposal for replacement testing system needs more work. Its elimination of several state assessments is troubling
Trying to Stop Spotted Lanternfly from Damaging Crops in NJ
Invasive insect, which could do a lot of damage to fruit and vegetables, has been found in three New Jersey counties
Redirect Remaining Sandy Aid to Victims Who Still Are Not Back in Homes, State Urged
Six years after superstorm’s devastation, not all recovery money has been spent. Advocates want some to go to people who are trying to ‘cross the finish line’
NJ Transit’s Service Cuts Bring Fresh Hell as Agency Pushes to Meet PTC Deadline
NJ commuters to New York City went through ‘summer of hell’ last year. They face renewed misery because of latest service changes, suspensions
State Advised to Reject PSE&G Clawback of Revenues from Customers
Expert testifies against utility’s request to recover monies lost helping people reduce their use of energy
Rutgers Team Invents Wristband that Could Detect Diseases, Enviro Hazards
Technology analyzes microscopic blood sample, transmits data to doctors, hospitals or patient’s phone
Family Planning Services in NJ at Risk from Federal Title X Cutbacks
Under Trump administration’s plan to eliminate funding for clinics where abortions are performed, four New Jersey counties could lose a range of healthcare services
Op-Ed: NJ Should Favor Single Developers for Offshore-Wind Projects
There have been calls for having different companies develop generation and transmission, but it would make more sense for New Jersey to go with single developers
The Man Who Tried to Clean Up New Jersey Politics
Former state legislator William E. Schluter, who died this week, left an indelible mark on New Jersey politics. And he had a prescription for corruption in the Garden State
Princeton Merger Pays Off in Property-Tax Slowdown, Better Services
Five years after borough and township consolidated, officials say homeowners and municipality have saved money, and services have improved
Booker and Menendez Explain How NJ Is Resisting Federal Healthcare Policies
Senators and state Health Commissioner outline efforts to stop Trump administration from dismantling ACA and impeding other initiatives
Third Try for Offshore-Wind Project Near Atlantic City
Turned down twice for being too costly, small clean-energy project is proposed once again for three miles off Jersey Shore
Former NJ Legislator Schluter, Known for His Unwavering Ethics, Dies at 90
In a political career extending from 1968 to 2002, William E. Schluter cinched tight the laws governing campaign contributions and lobbying
Top Court Sends Montclair State Back to Drawing Board Over New Campus Exit
Because plans would affect public safety, state Supreme Court returns case to Superior Court to make sure legitimate county concerns are taken into consideration
Op-Ed: Why We Need $15 an Hour Minimum Wage in New Jersey Now, Not Later
As living costs continue to rise in this expensive state, people are working longer hours for less money just to get by
NJ Senators: Marijuana Businesses Must Get Access to Banking System
Sens. Cory Booker and Bob Menendez say legal businesses that sell marijuana must be given entry to banking system
New Jersey Halts Admissions for Troubled Group-Home Company
A series of surprise investigations at Bellwether homes conducted by New Jersey’s Division of Developmental Disabilities uncovered evidence of abuse and falsification of records
Bramnick: On Gerrymandering and Murphy’s Fiscal Policies
Assembly minority leader thinks legislative districts should be more competitive, but doubts anyone from his party or the Democrats has political will to make it happen
State Agency to Partner with Hospitals on Housing Initiative
As part of pilot program, Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency will provide matching funds for homes to be built near healthcare facilities
Behavioral Health Program Expands Care, But Future Funding in Question
New Jerseyans with mental illnesses and addiction problems have benefited from project to transform their healthcare. But it’s not guaranteed to continue
Legalizing Marijuana in NJ: Where’s the Bill, Who Benefits, Who Pays?
New Jersey is on the cusp of legalizing recreational cannabis. But with no legislation ready, questions — and fears — are being raised
Budget Breakdown: What’s Driving Big Boost in Transportation Spending?
NJTV News special report on state budget examines transportation’s allocation with NJ Spotlight’s John Reitmeyer
Federal Move Could Undermine Murphy Clean-Energy Policies
Ruling by Federal Energy Regulatory Commission that state subsidies of nuclear and renewable energy are ‘unjust and unreasonable’ could unravel range of NJ energy initiatives
Op-Ed: On Affordable Housing, Some Officials Stuck Back in the Fifties
Politicians may try to impede affordable housing in New Jersey, but they can’t stop market forces that favor towns with mass transportation over isolated suburbs
Trump Clean-Car Rollback Could Mean Dirtier Air for New Jersey
Administration’s move to freeze tougher fuel-efficiency standards may make it much harder for state to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, diminish air pollution
Bridge and Tunnel Slow Woes: Major Route 495 Repair Will Clog the Lincoln
Traffic pileup: Transportation officials warn construction will lead to severe congestion, delays for ‘next two-and-a-half years’
Interactive Map: Eviction Filings Dip to Lowest Level in More than a Decade
Despite reductions, tenant advocates and attorneys claim a crisis still exists, especially in Essex County — particularly Newark — which saw more than 40,000 filings in fiscal 2018
Op-Ed: Governor Must Protect Ticket Buyers, Veto New Anti-Consumer Measure
Proposed legislation would benefit ticket sellers, not sports fans and concertgoers. What’s more, it skirted normal process of review and debate
State Goes after Polluters for Cleanup Costs, Most Aggressive Action in Years
‘We are demanding our money back,’ says Attorney General when announcing lawsuits for cleanup and restoration
Newark Receives Grant to Foster Minority-Owned Businesses
One of five cities in country chosen for small aid program, Newark still eyes the big prize — Amazon’s HQ2
New Jersey Supreme Court Tightens Standards for Expert Testimony
According to rigorous new guidelines, expert witnesses must demonstrate their testimony adheres to scientifically accepted methodology
What’s Going to Replace PARCC? It’s Complicated
State Board of Education debates value of standardized testing, draws no conclusions. Parents, educators weigh in
Candidates Clash in 11th District over ICE, Immigration, and Tax Cap
Republican Jay Webber and Democratic rival Mikie Sherrill have no trouble finding issues to disagree over
Helping NJ Prisoners Get on College Track
Changing lives: the transformative program that helps incarcerated and formerly incarcerated New Jerseyans gain college credits
Opinion: How to Curb Governor’s Extraordinary Budget Power
State Senate has approved constitutional amendment to strip governor of ability to certify revenues, but it’s not the only possible fix. Legislature has a remedy if it wants
Grewal Calls Judge’s Decision to Block 3D Gun Site a Victory for Public Safety
Attorney General indicates he will move to shut down other sites offering 3D blueprints when he finds them
Governor Appoints Monitor for Newark’s Troubled University Hospital
Alarms sound over shortcomings in quality of care and financial soundness. Murphy moves swiftly to tackle problems
NJ Suburbs Bounce Back as Older Millennials Go for House and Garden
Population of New Jersey’s suburban ring springs back even as three most urban counties continue to grow. Millennial generation is key
Sale of Oyster Creek Could Speed Up Decommissioning by Decades
Environmentalists happy nuclear power facility would be cleaned up faster than originally planned, but concerned about details
Down Payment on Murphy’s Plan for Free Community College in NJ
Starting in spring semester, hundreds of students may not have to pay tuition as pilot program is rolled out
Make Extra Mortgage Payments, Get a New State Tax Credit
Homeowners in high-cost New Jersey could get a small NJ tax break as GOP still pushes for federal tax changes harmful to the state
Civil Rights Coalition Calls for End to Core Element of NJ Bail Reform
Group fears computer risk-assessment tools can worsen racial disparities in who gets released while awaiting trial
Court Approves Green-Acres Swap to House Carousel in Seaside Heights
Conservationists tried to block trade, which brings almost 70 acres of land to municipality, by arguing Green Acres property should not be ‘diverted into private hands’
Meadowlands Hotel-Room Tax Quietly Expanded Beyond Former Strict Limits
In little noticed move, tax broadened to cover all hotels in 14 district towns, not just those located within environmentally sensitive area
Opinion: New Jersey and the ACA, Perfect Together
Despite GOP actions to destabilize Affordable Care Act, the individual insurance market is doing well in Garden State. And new legislation in NJ is helping with affordability
Newark Students Struggle to Earn College Degree in Six Years
Whether students from Newark complete college depends in large part on which high school they attend, new report finds
Trump & Co. Hope to Make SALT Cap Permanent
For GOP, capping the deduction keeps a “future Washington” from stealing funds from country’s middle class and small businesses
The Babies in New Jersey Who Start Out with ‘Odds Stacked Against Them’
Advocacy group’s first-ever population report on NJ’s infants and toddlers highlights their higher rate of relative poverty, and vulnerability to health and safety problems
Rule Allowing State Workers to Donate Unused Leave to Co-Workers to be Made Law
Sen. Loretta Weinberg behind effort to legally codify New Jersey’s donated-leave policy, which has been praised for promoting teamwork
EPA Tried to Ease Rule on Truck Pollution but Backs Off — For Now
Federal agency will enforce regulation that curbs pollution from diesel trucks after court sides with several states, including New Jersey. But skirmishing expected to continue
Budget Breakdown: The Billions Spent on Education
In the second special NJTV News report on Garden State budget, NJ Spotlight’s John Reitmeyer looks at the single biggest spending item, $15 billion on education
Op-Ed: Harnessing Offshore Wind — Do it Fast, But Do it Right
Murphy administration wants to jumpstart clean energy, but state law prohibits whole category of companies from bidding on key work. That could be costly for ratepayers
ACLU-NJ Sues School Districts for Asking About Immigration Status
Attorney argues that districts illegally request photo licenses or state ID cards to prevent students from registering for schools
Radio Station Suspends Hosts for Using Racial Slur Against State Attorney General
Politicians of every stripe jump to support AG Gurbir Grewal, the first Sikh-American in the country to hold such a position
AG Challenges Federal Agency for Inadequate Review of Gas Pipelines
Gurbir Grewal among several attorneys general critical of FERC’s decision to not take climate change into account in certification process
Grewal Tries to Block Texas Company’s Release of Plans for 3-D Guns on Internet
AG orders company to ‘cease and desist’ from making computer files available online that NJ residents could use to ‘print’ their own guns
Rutgers–New Brunswick Chancellor Steps Down After Just One Year
Debasish Dutta tells student his ‘vision for the chancellorship’ doesn’t mesh with the way the university sees the position
Op-Ed: EDA Challenges NJ to Rethink ‘Old Ways,’ Become Innovative Again
State agency launches program to rekindle spirit of innovation in New Jersey, invites local governments to compete for new planning awards
A Critical Question for NJ Towns: What Do You Do with a Dying Mall?
There are more than 30 enclosed malls dotted across the Garden State — many in trouble — but some experts insist they can be given a new lease on life
Justice Anne Patterson Reconfirmed for State Supreme Court
Christie appointee sails smoothly through Senate committee review. It appears there’s less drama in court with Murphy in governor’s office
Wind Farms for the Jersey Shore — State Outlines a Critical Rule
Board of Public Utilities explains key funding mechanism for offshore-wind projects. Developers are keen, but some clean-energy advocates chide agency for lack of specifics
Charges of Racism Leveled at Assembly Hearing on Affordable Housing
Claims that towns don’t have adequate infrastructure or large enough school systems to meet steep housing obligations dismissed as economic segregation
Hoping for the Next Google, State Will Help Pay Rent of Startups and Tech Firms
Keen to make New Jersey hospitable to new cutting-edge businesses, governor announces modest incentives he says could be beefed up if they deliver results
BPU Orders Utilities to Do Better Job Keeping Lights on During Big Storms
Agency directives include better sharing of crews outside franchise areas and improved communication with customers about restoration efforts
Extending National Flood Insurance Program Through Hurricane Season
The program, which is under severe financial stress, had been set to expire
Big Changes to School Funding in NJ as Fragile Alliance Holds
New law to lessen disparities in aid, and governor promises every district will be fully funded by 2025
Explainer: Everything You Need to Know About School Funding in NJ
Funding for New Jersey’s K-12 schools is one of the state’s most divisive issues, pitting district against district. How did it ever get that way?
State Suspends Low-Level Marijuana Cases Until September — For a Start
Attorney General says decision buys time for working group to advise on prosecutorial authority and downgrading of charges. Directive does not extend to law enforcement
NJ Makes Move to Bring Solar Power to Communities that Have Been Locked Out
New Jersey has given billions of dollars in ratepayer subsidies for solar systems, largely to benefit the better-off. It’s now pushing to include less affluent residents
Booker Leads NJ Opposition to Census Question on Citizenship
Senator calls proposal ‘shameful attempt to inject nativist, bigoted politics’ into population count. New Jersey groups mobilize to stop it
NJ Picked as ‘Learning Lab’ to Improve State Services Using Digital Technology
Better information for NJ Transit riders, a more efficient Newark Airport. These and other government initiatives are promised
Sweeney Maneuvers to Strip Governor of Key Budget Power, Denies It’s Hostile
Governor has sole authority to certify revenues. But, if Senate President is successful, that won’t be the case for much longer
Murphy CVs Bill Forcing Divestiture from Companies Dodging Superfund Cleanups
Legislation targets pension-fund investments. Governor says divestiture should be one option among several afforded to State Investment Council
NJ Issues First Advisories for Consumption of Fish Containing PFAS Chemicals
State scientists recommend limits for 12 species found to contain chemicals linked to cancers and other illnesses
New Law Requiring Candidates to Provide Email Helps Voters Stay Connected
Governor puts his signature to bill finally ending state’s inefficient, ineffective reliance on snail mail to reach candidates
Profile: Onetime Obama Staffer Now Steers Higher Ed in NJ
Georgia native focuses on developing ‘first-class, best-in-the-nation, free community college plan’ for New Jersey
Op-Ed: New Jersey Should Adopt Safe Nurse-to-Patient Limit
Having too few nurses working in healthcare facilities is to the detriment of patients and staff. Legislation to set reasonable ratio is proposed for NJ. It could save lives
‘Sin Taxes’ Are Unlikely to Deliver Revenue Bonanza to New Jersey
Lawmakers in NJ recently enacted new taxes on e-cigarettes and sports betting. Analysis suggests the new taxes won’t do much for state coffers
Attorney General Just Says ‘No’ to Decriminalizing Marijuana in Jersey City
AG’s stance surprises some, given Murphy administration’s support for legalizing cannabis use
BPU Goes Giddyup as Murphy Wants NJ on Fast Track to Clean Energy
Traditional speed of state agency has been plodding, but now it’s been pitched into leadership role in rapidly changing energy sector
Latest NJ Court Move: Huge Number of Old Warrants Could be Quashed
Following fast on recommendations for major reforms in municipal courts, panel of judges will review hundreds of thousands of warrants
Op-Ed: With Tunnel Repairs in Offing, Bikes are Key to Keeping People on the Move
It’s imperative to make contingency plans for a shutdown of Hudson rail tunnels. Step one: Widen bike paths on George Washington Bridge to accommodate far more riders
Offshore Wind Hits Early Turbulence: Who Will Bring the Power Ashore?
Battle erupts over who will deploy lucrative transmission lines to reach customers, pitting wind developers against transmission companies
Extra Homestead Credit in Pipeline, But Budget Ploy Keeps Lid on Amount
Homeowners who waited in vain for full NJ property-tax credit in May will get a makeup credit. But state has ways to keep lid on what’s paid out
Interactive Map: Where New Jersey’s Prison Population Is Shrinking Fastest
The Garden State leads the nation in freeing prisoners, a trend helped along by sentencing reform and changes in the way drug crimes are dealt with by the courts
Former EPA Official to Lead Highlands Council
Appointment seen as move by governor to reshape body that oversees environmentally sensitive region
Op-Ed: Let Public Challenge State’s Environmental Damage Settlements
Citizens were denied right to challenge settlement in case of ExxonMobil’s massive environmental damage in New Jersey. NJ Legislature must ensure that right
What’s Causing NJ’s Growing Shortage of Nurses?
As older nurses retire, problem is exacerbated by insufficient staff in nursing schools to train those who want to join the profession
NJ Tax-Incentive Programs Under Microscope — High Cost of Camden Jobs Noted
State should reform how it gives job-creation tax incentives to businesses, suggests new report that underscores high price tag for Camden jobs
Federal Court Stops EPA From Easing Rules on Truck Pollution
Temporary stay blocks agency from lifting limits on glider trucks, whose rebuilt engines can spew 40 times more pollution than today’s engines
NJ Joins Suit Demanding Trump DOJ Distribute Millions in Policing Funds
Six states refuse to be strong-armed into enforcing Trump immigration laws in order to receive federal funding for police initiatives
Dems Crush GOP Candidates in Congressional Money Race
Hand-over-fist fundraising fills Democratic campaign coffers for upcoming congressional race
Tammy Murphy Says She’s Team Player, Not Co-Governor
First Lady happy to work behind scene on issues concerning environment and New Jersey’s mother-infant mortality rates
Changes Suggested to Marijuana Bill Don’t Wilt Opposition
Sen. Ron Rice, leader of Legislative Black Caucus, remains steadfast against measure
Municipal Courts too Quick to Levy Fines and Need Major Reforms — Report
New Jersey’s 515 municipal courts collected over $400 million last year. New report concludes system is due for an overhaul that prioritizes impartial justice over making money
NJ, Other States File Suit to Quash Federal Curbing of SALT Deduction
GOP’s overhaul of tax policies last year dealt harsh blow to New Jersey, other states by placing $10,000 limit on key tax write-off. New lawsuit says cap violates the Constitution
It Was Once a Superfund Site, Now It’s a Solar Farm
Transformation of former landfill in South Brunswick emblematic of governor’s plan to greatly increase renewable energy in NJ. But, can more developers be enticed to invest in solar?
West Nile Virus Has Come Early to NJ This Year — Take Precautions, Officials Warn
Transmitted by infected mosquitoes, WNV has already been found in 13 counties but no cases of human infection
Op-Ed: Governor Must Ensure Climate Program Protects NJ’s Most Vulnerable
‘Imploring’ Murphy to set strong cap on New Jersey’s carbon pollution, as state rejoins Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative
Can ‘Opportunity Zones’ Help Revitalize NJ’s Distressed Towns and Cities?
New federal program bets investors will be willing to put their money in designated zones in return for significant tax breaks down the line
Court Upholds Fine for Unlicensed Transportation of Solid Waste
Dirt hauler delivered solid waste to Old Bridge development instead of supplying ‘clean fill.’ The waste contained a known carcinogen
State Gives Medicaid Patients More Help to Quit Smoking
Medicaid members now qualify for smoking cessation medications like nicotine gum, lozenges, skin patches without prior approval
NJ Wine Growers Say Road Signage Prohibitions Are Keeping Them Hidden
Quality and quantity of Garden State wine on the upswing, but producers lament rules that limit their use of signs
Op-Ed: Separating Families — Wrong at the Border and Wrong in New Jersey
NJ punishes children of parents in prison, but pending legislation would help mitigate the damage
NJ’s Congressional Delegation Shocked at Trump’s Remarks
‘Disturbing,’ ‘shameful,’ and ‘wrong’ among the adjectives senior politicians used to describe president’s performance alongside Putin
See How Much Your School District Is Gaining, or Losing, in ‘Redistributed’ Aid
There’s been a net increase of $350M in funding. Some districts are winners, but others are losers. Who wins, who loses?
Tackling Teen Suicides in NJ — and the Online Connection
Lawmakers propose studying effects of electronic devices, online communication on schoolchildren. In related move, they want kids to be assessed for symptoms of depression
JCP&L Wants Approval for $400M Upgrades to Its Grid
Utility, criticized by governor for poor performance during winter storms, says it needs rate increase to carry out thousands of improvements. Advocates fear consumers will pay more
How to Repair NJ Transit — Start with the Top Brass
Money isn’t enough. New report suggests governing board of beleaguered transportation agency needs significant reform
Budget Breakdown: How Will New Spending Plan Affect Public Pensions?
In first of a series of reports on NJTV News about the state budget, NJ Spotlight’s John Reitmeyer examines implications for public pension system
Op-Ed: Time for NJ’s Health Insurers to Help Counter Trump Sabotage of ACA
Governor and legislators have done their bit to try to hold down cost of premiums. When will insurance industry step up?
Last Week Was Bad for Republicans in South Jersey
Seth Grossman, GOP candidate in 2nd congressional district, accused of promulgating racist material
Murphy Administration Hopes to Save on Cost of Public-Worker Benefits
Renewed focus in Trenton on price tag of health insurance, as troubled pension system also expected to come in for more scrutiny
Big ‘Ecological Impact’ to Follow Removal of Warren County Dam
Multimillion-dollar project to clear away Columbia Lake Dam gears up. Will shad and other species come back to restored habitat?
Healthcare Transportation ‘Disrupters’ Make Big Drive in New Jersey
New high-tech services pledge to construct easier ways for patients to get to and from medical appointments
State Urged to Do More to Battle Air Pollution
New Jerseyans are breathing more than their fill of dirty air, according to a new report. Surprisingly, it found the most bad-air days in 2016 were logged in bucolic Warren County
NJ Renews Funding for McGreevey’s Prisoner Re-Entry Program
Former governor celebrates fresh grants, including one that helps people get jobs in construction
Go/No-Go for Power Plant on One of NJ’s Most Pristine Waterways
DEP gives exemption to proposed development in Highlands, but also deems project inconsistent with water-quality regulations
PARCC Is on the Way Out, But Not Everyone Is Happy to See It Go
State board presented proposal to cut PARCC graduation requirements to just two tests, but some educators speak in favor of unpopular evaluation
Lawmakers Hope to Reduce Drug Abuse, OD Deaths in Schools
Can starting drug education in seventh grade and stockpiling naloxone in high schools help turn tide in battle against substance abuse?
Republicans Want to Wrest Control of Affordable Housing from NJ Courts
Judges have overseen agreements that could lead to construction of tens of thousands of homes. Their ‘micromanaging’ of process is a problem for GOP leader
Senate Inaction Leaves Empty Seats on Critical State Investment Council
Panel deals with $78.6 billion public pension system, but governor’s eight nominees have yet to get a hearing
Op-Ed: Governor Is Great, Not Weak, for Compromising on the Budget
Murphy is already better at his job than many who held the position before him. Media ‘malarkey’ does him a disservice
Murphy Begins to Wind Down PARCC Testing in NJ Schools
Governor announces cuts in controversial program. But, having once promised to scrap it, he concedes it will take a while to replace it
NJ Ranks Last Among States for Cost of Doing Business, but Other Signs Are Positive
Low mark for Garden State is cause for concern. On the bright side: high marks in education, diversity, access to capital
Energy Official Threatens New Jersey Brexit from PJM Regional Power Grid
Board of Public Utilities president unhappy with ‘lip service’ and decisions that lead to NJ customers paying more for electricity
NJ Gives Medicaid Patients with Hepatitis C Earlier Access to Life-Saving Drugs
Change means severe liver damage might be avoided. Up to now, patients were only covered for treatments after damage was evident
Op-Ed: To Vote Has Value to the Soul
New Jersey must restore voting rights to people on parole, on probation, and in prison
NJ Concussion Doc Warns Parents: Keep Kids Out of Youth Football
Other doctors question this caution, while sports advocates argue football remains a path to educational and economic opportunity for some kids
State Takes Another Small Step Toward Cranking Up Offshore Wind Industry
After progress stalled under Christie administration, new governor has ambitious agenda. But developers worry time will run out before they can access federal tax incentives
Opinion: The Not So Hidden Agenda to Stall Expansion of Public Charter Schools in NJ
Follow the money behind two-pronged legal and academic attack. Realize the endgame is a moratorium on charters
NJ Agencies Try to Calm Trump Hostility to Gateway Project
Port Authority takes over more aspects of trans-Hudson tunnel, NJ Transit confirms extra money for Portal Bridge. But is President’s enmity toward New York Senator Chuck Schumer the real impediment?
U.S. Third Circuit Decides in Favor of New Jersey Criminal-Justice Reform
In ruling, judge upholds state’s 2014 determination to eliminate monetary bail as prerequisite for release from jail
New Superintendent of Newark’s Schools Promises Forward March
Roger León says he’s responsible for setting stage for what happens years down the line
Is NJ Ready for Water-Use Fee to Fund Billions in Upgrades of Aging Infrastructure?
State Sen. Bob Smith has long argued for a toll to help fund renewal of New Jersey’s century-old water system. He thinks the time just might be right to get it done
Opinion: New Jersey Scores Another Own Goal with ‘Horrendous’ Tax Choices
Garden State’s competitiveness severely weakened by political leaders’ budget deal. Taking the easy way out, they made worst possible policy decisions
Lawmakers Want to Borrow $1B for Education Items but Leave Voters with Final Say
Bipartisan support to ask voters for massive bond. The money would go to school security, technical training, and cleaning up school water. Will governor sign on?
Murphy Signs Law to Update NJ’s Sorely Outmoded System for Investigating Deaths
State’s medical examiner operation has been falling apart for years but major reforms are about to begin
The List: Top Ten Counties in New Jersey for Highest Wages
The best places for higher-wage jobs are in northern and central NJ. But pay hikes in Garden State straggle behind national average
Law that Would Put 5-Cent Fee on Plastic, Paper Bags Up in Air as Governor Decides
Jockeying continues over legislation — or some other initiative to curb spread of plastic — as Murphy’s decision awaited
Opinion: Governor Doesn’t Even Get Half a Loaf as Sweeney Takes the Cake
Legislative power has been reasserted after budget struggle. It’s difficult to see how Gov. Murphy can maneuver around emboldened Senate President
Hospitals Get Good News, Bad News in NJ’s Last-Minute Budget Resolution
Tens of millions of dollars that had been ‘frozen’ will be quickly distributed to acute-care facilities but hospital leaders alarmed by emergency-room payment reforms
Budget Earmarks Funds to Build Affordable Homes in NJ — at Last
While significant sum still allowed to be diverted, $15 million has been put aside specifically for constructing homes
What’s In the Budget and How Will it Affect You?
Who wins? Who loses? Who pays more? Who gets a break? Who takes a hit? Where in the budgetary details is the devil?
Homegrown Educator Charting New Course for Newark Schools
Roger León, the ultimate Brick City insider, gets chance to chart course for school district as era of state control has ended
Sweeney, Coughlin Show Governor Their Power in Budget Fight
Yes, Murphy got funding for nearly all his spending priorities. But he had to give up one of his core pledges, a millionaires tax, among other concessions to his fellow Democrats
‘Ecstatic’ Sweeney Wins Major Changes in School Funding
Governor agrees to consequential adjustments to state’s school funding law for which Senate President has long campaigned
FINE PRINT: This Is What You Can Expect from NJ’s Revised Energy Master Plan
Look for dramatic revisions, given that when governor ordered state officials to overhaul the plan, he emphasized need to shift to clean energy sources
NJ Close to Giving Prisoners Access to State Financial Aid for College Courses
Former Gov. Jim McGreevey says initiative would be ‘a game changer,’ offering those who are incarcerated the prospect of a career rather than a return to the streets ‘with no hope’
Op-Ed: Imposing Small Fee on Plastic and Paper Bags Will Help NJ Fight Litter
Bags litter the Garden State’s highways and byways. Not just an eyesore, they are a big environmental concern
Results of Employer Survey Show State’s Labor Market at a Tipping Point
Although New Jersey has seen job growth since the ‘great recession,’ wages have gone down and there’s danger of ‘a vicious cycle of low wages, decreased investment and underutilization of human capital’
Last-Minute Budget Deal Allows NJ To Avoid Government Shutdown
Final agreement on millionaires' and corporate tax boosts spending on education, property tax relief
Will Democrats Public Brawling Over Budget Hurt the Party Down the Road?
Some pundits say clash was inevitable, the result of an inexperienced governor taking on powerful, ambitious legislative leaders
NJ Hospitals Explore Software to Reduce Addiction, Improve Care
Computerized tracking tool summarizes patients’ histories, flagging suspect behaviors and speeding response time
State Senate OKs Prescribed Burns in Pinelands, Other NJ Woodlands
Controlled burns reduce wildfires, while improving ecological health of forests and wooded areas
Op-Ed: New Jersey Needs This Tool to Reduce Flooding and Water Pollution
The Garden State’s sources of pollution almost defy counting: pesticides, fertilizers, petroleum, antifreeze, septic systems, sewer pipes, and pet waste — to name just a few
As Shutdown Clock Ticks, Murphy and Dem Leaders Duel Over Budget Plans
Legislative leaders want taxes on short-term summer rentals, boost in realty-transfer tax, but Murphy’s millionaires tax and increase in state sales tax still nowhere to be seen
NJ Joins Suit to Stop EPA From Easing Rules on HFCs Linked to Climate Change
Federal agency loosens its own limits on hydrofluorocarbons, compounds used in refrigeration, air conditioning, insulation, aerosols, and other processes
NJ Public Unions Vow to Stand Up to U.S. Supreme Court Janus Ruling
Union leaders, Democratic lawmakers remain uncowed by decision to strip public-sector unions of right to collect ‘fair-share’ fees from nonmembers who benefit from negotiated contracts
Law Enforcement, Addiction Services Forge New Alliance to Help Drug Offenders
State Attorney General promotes program that treats addiction as a public health crisis rather than ‘law enforcement issue alone’
Op-Ed: Making NJ Truly Healthy Means Giving Everyone Same Opportunities
Healthy living is hard to achieve for many New Jerseyans, who face significant economic and social obstacles. We need to build a ‘culture of health’ for all our residents
Delivery Services Are Right Rx for Medical Marijuana
Essential for patients who are too ill to travel or who have mobility issues, delivery services let them receive their medicine in the privacy of their homes
Legislature Set to Advance Contentious Nursing Home Staff-Ratio Bill
Frontline workers call for more help, but industry fears an “unfunded mandate”
NJ’s Budget Battle: Tax Breaks Are at Stake, Not Just Tax Hikes
Governor offers to compromise with Democratic legislative leaders, but fate unclear of tax breaks that would help low-income and middle-class New Jerseyans
State Starts to Wind Down Program Used to Encourage Solar Installations
Steep costs to utility customers who subsidize this renewable energy leads Board of Public Utilities to move away from solar credits, but new system has yet to be determined
NJ Joins Legal Battle Over Trump’s ‘Zero-Tolerance’ Immigration Policy
Attorney general signs on to multistate lawsuit alleging administration’s actions at Southwestern borders are unconstitutional
The Opioid Epidemic in New Jersey — an NJ Spotlight Roundtable
As the Garden State continues to stem the tide of opioid deaths, funding must be found for new initiatives and emerging evidence-based protocols
Op-Ed: The Garden State’s Illusive 180-Day School Year
New Jersey statute mandates students attend school for 180 days each year, but everything from fire drills to teacher conferences can whittle that figure down
Murphy Won’t Rule Out Line-Item Veto, but Keeps Talking with Legislators
Murphy and Democratic leaders try to bridge budget gap in closed-door talks and try to sway public opinion in competing press conferences
Staving Off Diversions of Lead-Abatement Funds — Constitutionally
Committee clears bill that would dedicate portion of sales-tax revenue to stripping lead-based paint from New Jersey homes, most common source of lead exposure for kids
Education Legislation: It’s Not Just About School Funding
Bills advancing in the State House address a variety of issues, from recess, seatbelts, and sexual abuse to helping private schools meet payroll for STEM teachers
NJ Thinks Very Small, Hoping to Make Big Difference in Affordable Housing
Can ‘tiny homes’ establish a firm enough foundation in the Garden State, giving the homeless and the poor a way to put a roof over their head?
Changes in State Funding Might Give Hospitals Extra Money — and Take Some Away
Proposals, which have raced through the Legislature, envision new county-based taxes on procedures and acute care
Poll: Who’s Winning the Budget Battle for NJ’s Hearts and Minds?
Gov. Phil Murphy and state legislators have mounted an all-out messaging war about their spending plans. Is it just a media blitz or is one side edging closer to victory?
Op-Ed: Balancing Budgets Without Political Consequences
Long-term, short-term, midterm — determining which spending plans can take New Jersey comfortably and safely into the future
The List: The Graying of New Jersey Keeps Pace with Aging of America
With its median age of 35.2 years, Hudson County — with its millennial magnets of Jersey City and Hoboken — is positively spry compared with Cape May County’s 49.4
Explainer: Why Gov. Murphy and Lawmakers Can’t Agree on a New State Budget
But despite all the buster and ballyhoo, there’s still room for compromise — and still time to end the impasse before a government shutdown becomes imminent
Prevention, Risk Reduction Focus of First NJ Spotlight Opioid Roundtable
State officials, medical professionals agree New Jersey has made a good start by trimming opioid prescriptions, but much more work remains
BPU Blocks JCP&L Plans for High-Voltage Power Line in Monmouth County
State agency agrees with activists, administrative law court, and rate counsel — sees no need for proposed $111 million power conduit that would run close to schools and homes
Op-Ed: Bring NJ’s Independent Schools into Budget Discussions
Although the state’s independent colleges and universities offer diversity of community and opportunity, they may go unrecognized during broader budget discussions
In New Jersey, A Crisis of Legal Help for Unaccompanied Minors
When immigrant families are split up at the border, their children are often sent as far away as New Jersey
Interactive Map: Where Opioids Are Exacting the Highest Death Toll in NJ
Prescriptions are way down but that hasn’t halted the accelerating number of fatalities. The one bright spot is Ocean County, which has seen big decline in deaths related to the drugs
Push Comes to Shove: Legislature Sends Its 2019 Spending Bill to Murphy
High rhetoric and low expectations as budget deal goes south. Next up: governor’s veto and government shutdown?
Opinion: Front-Row Seats for the Trenton Power Struggle
It’s not about any of the issues that Murphy and Sweeney have made their own, it’s about who calls the shots, the governor or the Legislature — and the conflict is only going to get uglier
NJ Lawmakers OK 5-Cent Fee on Plastic/Paper Carryout Bags
If Murphy signs on, law could reduce clutter in landfills and landscapes, but it won’t deliver money to lead-abatement programs — as originally intended
Fine Print: School-funding changes easily pass Senate and Assembly
But how long will they survive in budget battle with Murphy?
Animal, Mineral, Vegetable, Microbe: Parsing NJ’s Potential State Symbols
Will the Pine Barrens tree frog, horseshoe crab, Tom Edison, franklinite, and Streptomyces griseus — among others — join the bog turtle as official symbols of the Garden State?
Scientists Help ID New Cancer-Causing Agent in Tobacco Smoke
Organic compounds known as ‘aldehydes’ are primary source of damage to DNA and also suppress its ability to repair that damage
Lawmakers Look to Divert Funds Before State Has Money in Hand
A proposed 5-cent fee on single-use plastic bags could bring in $23M for lead abatement, but the funds are being diverted — even before the new legislation is law
Murphy to Undo Contentious Christie Makeover of Mental Health, Addiction Services
Governor expected to shift most DMHAS programs back to the Department of Human Services
For Murphy, Changes to Funding Formula Depend on Revenues to Fund Them
Governor calls revised school-funding scheme a ‘nice-looking half a loaf,’ but suggests everything depends on lawmakers giving him the revenue he’s asked for
Feds Release Long-Awaited Report on Health Risks of Chemical Family
New health standards on 14 chemicals in the PFAS family raise concerns about current EPA limits — or the lack of them
Uncorking the Cap: Law Would Make It Easier for NJ Drinkers to Buy Wine
Coalition of wineries, consumers and retailers cheer plan to get rid of current cap on amount of wine that can be shipped but liquor store alliance opposes the change
Money Drains as Lawmakers Slow to Approve Refinancing of NJ’s Transportation Debt
Governor gave go-ahead, but legislators haven’t acted. Officials estimate state has missed out on $1 million in savings in days
Op-Ed: Reducing Disposable Bags Means Both Paper and Plastic
Plastic bags may have a worse reputation, but their paper equivalents are at least just as bad for the environment
NJ Stands with Children, Protests Splitting Up Immigrant Families at Border
Murphy signs EO to stop state funds from being used for forced separations, commits $2.1 million to legal help for indigent immigrants
In Open Challenge to Murphy, Dem Lawmakers Move Their Own Spending Bill
Senate and Assembly budget panels vote out 2019 budget bill, risking governor’s veto and state shutdown at end of month
School-Funding Bill Clears Committee, Breaking One Logjam With Murphy
Proponents claim $9 billion measure puts state on road to full funding within seven years
The RPA Wants to Welcome You to the Meadowlands National Park
The Regional Plan Association has seen the future of the Meadowlands — and its egrets, ospreys, and bald eagles — as a vast wetlands preserve
After Paramus Tragedy, Making School Buses Safer, Drivers More Accountable
Lawmakers offer legislation to upgrade seat belts, strengthen training and regulation of drivers, and add to safety of special-needs students
NJ Lawmakers Consider New Taxes on Hospitals to Fund Medicaid, Medical Education
Aim is to raise investment in care for low-income residents and pump more money into graduate education
Op-Ed: Ten New Ways to View A Career in Manufacturing
New Jersey’s manufacturing and STEM industries are very much alive and well, with 11,000 companies, 360,000-plus employees, and $46 billion in output
Pallone Recounts Difficult Visit to Immigrants in Elizabeth Detention Center
Congressman believes opposition to Trump policy of separating children from parents is ‘building to a crescendo’
Trenton Starts to Sizzle, Governor Duels with Leading Dems Over Budget
Amid competing press conferences, clashing news releases, and governor’s threat to veto Legislature’s appropriations bill, possibility of government shutdown increases
Deja Vu All Over Again: NJ Gov. Corzine and the 2006 Government Shutdown
Former governor’s plan to raise sales tax by 1 cent sparked off a battle of wills between two powerful Democrats. Sound familiar?
NJ Hospitals Adopt Protocols to Reduce Unnecessary C-Sections
Cesarean delivery comes with a number of risks for mothers and babies, including blood clots, cardiac complications, asthma and diabetes
Does ‘Rain Tax’ Have a Chance of Staunching State’s Stormwater Runoff?
Bill voted out of key Senate committee would let towns and counties assess fees on sources of runoff to cover cost of managing stormwater
Op-Ed: Let’s See if Lawmakers Stand Up to Unions by Voting to Curb Unused Sick Days
Legislators need to show courage to ‘bring public-sector workers in line with everyday working people’
Appropriations Bill from Democratic Lawmakers, First Salvo in Budget Battle
Despite overall accord, legislators and governor still have issues to hash out, especially when it comes to funding public-employee pensions, K-12 education, and mass transit
Could Climate Change Erode Real Estate Markets in Coastal New Jersey?
If chronic flooding inundates New Jersey communities, homes could take a big hit, according to new report, as well as property taxes that fund schools and roads
State Launches Tax-Free Savings Program to Help Disabled People
NJ ABLE gives people with disabilities as way to ‘save for vital day-to-day expenses,’ without imperiling Medicaid coverage, similar programs
NJ Legislature Looks to Throw the Books at High Cost of College Education
Lawmakers want schools to come up with plans to use ‘open textbooks,’ which do not require students to buy expensive access codes that unlock online assignments and quizzes
ACE Seeks Rate Increase to Recoup Costs of Modernizing Its Power Grid
If BPU signs off on $99.7M filing, residential customers of Atlantic City Electric would see average monthly bill climb by about $11
Op-Ed: A Cascade of Travesties
PennEast hacks an unconscionable pipeline-review process
Jersey City Politics, Unraveled
Nine-hour city council meeting only part of raucous week, that also sees feud between mayor and newspaper publishers
‘Tax Us,’ Says NJ Millionaire to Legislators Who Resist Murphy Budget Plan
Garden State’s ‘Patriotic Millionaires’ dismiss concerns the rich will be chased away if they have to pay more in taxes
Watchdog Group Takes Christie to Court Over OPRA Request for His Emails
Watchdog wants to to dig into former governor’s electronic correspondence about $33M tax credit to Jared Kushner in Jersey City real estate deal, but Christie digs in his heels
Burlington County Leads with $20M Initiative for Greater School Security
Board of Freeholders dedicates half the capital budget to beef up safety at 21 public high schools
Getting Lead Out of NJ’s Water Means First Finding How It’s Getting In
Package of bills would require public water systems to compile list of lead service lines, public schools to maintain online database of lead-testing results
Lawmakers Urge Review of Medicaid Rates for Nursing Home Care in NJ
Providers say they’re losing more than $400 million a year, struggling to contain costs
Fine Print: Ruiz-Madden Bill Package Protect Students from Sexual Abuse
Hidden video catches union leaders saying they’d protect teachers
Op-Ed: State’s New Law on Absenteeism — Only the Beginning
Schools that succeed in reducing absenteeism go beyond just complying with state and district rules to encourage and support attendance as a fundamental part of their mission to educate
Is a Natural-Gas Power Plant in the Works for the Musconetcong River?
Preliminary discussions between project developer and state and local officials explore building the plant on the state’s top trout stream
Gov. Murphy Signs New Jersey into New Era of Gun Safety
Thanks to a half-dozen ‘commonsense’ bills, state now has arguably some of the strictest gun laws in the country
Lawmakers Looking to Find More Dollars for Direct Caregivers
It’s easy to see why there’s a shortage of direct-support professionals. They’re paid so little they can do better financially working at a fast-food chain
New Road Map for New Jersey to Reclaim Status as Biotech Leader
Task force identifies why NJ no longer leads in cutting-edge industry; cites recession, corporate mergers, patent expirations — and decline in key state supports
As NJ Rents Continue to Climb, Finding an Apartment Becomes Even Tougher
Hundreds of thousands of residents don’t earn enough to cover the rent on an average two-bedroom, without struggling to pay other bills and meet routine expenses
Floating a $600 Million Bond Issue to Build New Portal Bridge
Plan could go long way to convincing Trump administration to pony up its contribution to bridge project, a key element for speeding rail traffic along Northeast Corridor
State Freezes Charity Care for Hospitals — Revenue Crunch, Budget Blamed
Seventy acute-care facilities are affected but will continue to treat patients. Funding for graduate-medical education also a casualty of New Jersey’s budgetary woes
Can $51 Billion Upgrade to Region’s Airports Get off the Ground?
The Regional Plan Association wants to revamp Newark, Kennedy, and LaGuardia to stay ahead of expected growth — and pull plug on Teterboro to stay clear of rising sea level
NJ’s Medicaid Transportation System in Line for Major Overhaul
Program that uses private drivers and shuttle for nonemergency rides has been long criticized. Lawmakers want more inspections, better records, bigger fines
A Change of Name, Not Mission, for ‘Bank’ That Funds Clean Water Across NJ
Under its new name, the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank will still loan money to stem pollution from sewage treatment, upgrade drinking-water systems
Op-Ed: Helping New Jerseyans Take Control of Where Their Electricity Comes From
The way electricity is consumed and produced is changing. We no longer need to rely on large, centralized generation to keep the lights on
Small New Jersey Town Takes On School-Funding Fight
The comfortable community of Chesterfield sits squarely at the center of the battle over how New Jersey funds public education
More Scrutiny of Deals that Municipalities Make with Developers?
State lawmakers want increased regulation of local tax agreements that can adversely affect funding for school districts
NJ Policy Group Releases Blueprint for Improving End-of-Life Care
New Jersey residents, like most Americans, would like to die at home or in hospice, but many spend their last days in the hospital
Lawmakers Look to Create Standard Penalties for Polluters
By developing a sliding scale for damage to natural resources, state would have a better chance to compel ‘bad actors’ to clean up pollution
Federal District Judge Says ‘No Deal’ to NJ Pulling Out of Waterfront Commission
Temporary injunction keeps New Jersey from withdrawing from Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor — at least for now
Opinion: The New Jersey Budget Strategy Must Be Better
Either we move the budget discussion to a multiyear approach or we will fail to address our tax and spending issues and be right back at it again next year with no permanent solutions
Despite High-Profile Deaths, State Figures Show Decline in Suicides
Four in 10 deaths nationwide were attributed, at least in part, to relationship problems, while nearly two out of three involved trouble with drug or alcohol abuse, or a recent crisis
PSE&G’s Next Big Ask: $2.5B to Upgrade Electric and Gas Distribution Networks
Utility claims residential customers would see only small bumps in their monthly bills; money would go to boost resiliency, reliability, redundancy
The List: How Much More Do New Jersey’s CEOs Earn Than Their Employees?
Hold onto your metaphoric hat: In 2017, the total compensation package for the CEO at the Children’s Place was 1,813 times more than the median wage for one of its workers
Former State Sen. Allen Starts PAC to Help Women Get Started in Politics
New political action committee — runWOMENserve — to offer funding to female candidates regardless of their party
Op-Ed: Staffing Ratios — The Wrong Formula for Patients and Nurses
Treating nurses as numbers rather than as the trained professionals they are, devalues them
NJ Lawmakers Go All In on Sports Betting, Law Awaits Governor’s Signature
After Supreme Court threw out federal law that prohibited legalized sports gambling in New Jersey, state lawmakers fast-tracked a bill to allow it. Not everybody’s happy
Interactive Map: Are We Seeing the Beginning of a Blue Wave in New Jersey?
The turnout for the midterm primaries was the highest in years, with Democrats showing up at the polls in greater numbers that Republicans in most congressional districts
Six Months into Murphy’s Term, Senate Confirms Six Cabinet Members
One reason process lasted as long as it did: disagreements over school funding between Sweeney and Repollet, new commissioner of education
State Poised to Allow More Gender Options on Birth Certificates
New law will allow transgender people to alter documents just by signing a simple statement, without a letter from healthcare professional
Working to Close Security-Funding Gap Between Public and Private Schools
The state allocates money for security at nonpublic schools at roughly half the per-pupil rate of public schools. Some lawmakers are looking to end this unequal protection under the law
Closer to Compromise: Can Sweeney and Murphy Reach Closure on School Funding?
Both camps are reporting progress, without releasing any details, with the Senate president suggesting the sides may be ‘close’
Op-Ed: ZIP Code Shouldn’t Determine the Tech Experiences of Students
How can schools in poorer, urban areas create a level playing field with their suburban counterparts?
New Jersey to Overhaul Beleaguered Medical Examiner System
A decade in the making, legislative reform may finally be coming to the state’s inefficient, fragmented ME’s office
Trying to Strike Delicate Balance on Size of State’s Budget Reserves
Murphy’s plan to bump up the budget reserves should make credit-rating agencies happy, but if lawmakers want the money to go to more pressing needs, it could mean another downgrade
‘Nasty, Dirty Brawl’ Anticipated as Battle of the Bobs Begins for Senate Seat
Bruised by his lackluster win in Tuesday’s primary, Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez still favored to beat Republican Bob Hugin in fall election
Trump Plan to Prop Up Nuclear, Coal to Cost Consumers Billions?
Families to ‘overpay’ hundreds of dollars a year for electricity if plan goes through. NJ supporters say it would help South Jersey economy
Op-Ed: Shifting New Jersey from Worst to First in Maternity Care
Our rates of cesarean births are neither safe nor sustainable. We have the responsibility of transforming maternity care in this state. Let’s begin
The Primaries in Perspective: The Most Important Results — and What They Mean
The notable upset came in the 2nd District Republican contest, where Grossman pulled away from Singh, but the Menendez-Hugin matchup is already getting even uglier
State Seeks to Apply Population Health Goals to Opioid Addiction
Treatment and recovery are a start, but more is needed, including investing in wellness and building safer communities
‘Greens’ Urge Murphy to Clamp Down on CO2 Emissions from Power Plants
Environmentalists say state’s re-entry into RGGI offers opportunity to set ambitious cap on greenhouse-gas emissions
Opinion: Leap of Faith — Will Murphy’s Pension Bill CV Really Protect Taxpayers?
The governor has been lauded in the press for fixing a ‘terrible’ bill, but a closer look at the amended legislation raises additional questions and concerns
The Latest Move: New Jerseyans Return to the Cities
Colleen O’Dea, NJ Spotlight’s editor at large, discusses a shift in the state’s population on NJTV
NJ 2018 Primary Results at a Glance
Check out the winners and losers in all the contests across the Garden State
Primary Preview: Candidate Snapshots for All Contested Districts
Democratic and Republican candidates for the Senate and House contests kicked their efforts into high gear this week. Here’s where they stand
Join Us Tonight for Live Updates of All Primary Contests
Starting at 8:30 tonight, you can track primary results across New Jersey — right from our homepage
Governor, Democratic Leaders Tiptoe Toward Accord on School Aid
But with weeks to go before state budget must be enacted, other impediments need to be negotiated
Can NJ’s Effort to Legalize Pot Find a Way Through the Expungement Maze?
Assembly panel raises myriad issues — from the sheer number of low-level convictions to a paper chase involving yellowing court records to duplicative databases — that must be addressed
Murphy Resists Trump's Changes to Funding of Women’s Healthcare
Fears that Title X programs will be undermined and access to family planning limited for women of low income
Smokers: Get the Hell Off the Beach (and Out of the Park)
State moves to ban smoking at beaches and in public parks across New Jersey
Op-Ed: Supreme Court Can’t Break the Will of American Workers and Their Unions
The nation’s top court will rule on Janus v. AFSCME any time now, an attempt by the rich and powerful to end economic equality in this country
Governor Signs Nation’s Strongest Law on ‘Surprise’ Medical Bills
Doctors remained deeply concerned that law will weaken their negotiating power with insurance carriers, cost them money
Film, TV, Digital Production Tax Credits Could Be Back in Picture for NJ
Sponsors of bill offering incentives to entertainment industry agree to changes called for in Murphy’s conditional veto
Oyster Creek Shutdown Will Cost $1.4 Billion, Take 60 Years
Decommissioning report to Nuclear Regulatory Commission indicates Exelon will initiate lengthy closure procedure mid-September
Opinion: Note to Governor: Take the Hint, and the Revised Revenue Estimates
Sweeney and Coughlin & Co. have put Murphy in a bind: Go with their revised numbers or risk further alienating Democratic lawmakers
Murphy Signs Law to Create NJ’s Own Health Insurance Mandate
In effort to stabilize health insurance market and ensure coverage remains affordable, NJ becomes second state to creates its own individual mandate
PSEG Plans to Spend More Than $5 Billion on Power Grid Upgrade, Clean Energy
Company insists that expenditures will not spike ratepayer’s bills, but Rate Counsel, others remain skeptical
Sweeney’s Fix for School Funding Would Cut Some Districts' Adjustment Aid
Senate President’s aim is to gradually help ‘underfunded’ districts while undoing the ‘overfunding’ of others
Lawmakers Wrestle with Troubling Topic: Sexual Abuse at School
Joint session responds to videotape of union leaders dismissing claims of teacher misconduct, but struggles to determine what’s missing from current regulations
Property-Tax Breaks for Vets in Retirement Communities ‘Right Thing to Do’
Supporters have been trying to get legislative approval for years, but efforts have always fallen short
Op-Ed: Time to Fix the PARCC-for-Graduation Mess
More than a dozen states are using the SAT or ACT for federal accountability to measure 'college readiness' without any link to high school diplomas. New Jersey should follow suit
Could Accelerated Drop in Revenue Lead to Reinstating NJ Estate Tax?
Analysts say New Jersey’s estate and inheritance tax collections down more than $100 million compared to original forecasts
Bolstered by Anti-Trump Sentiment, Can a Democrat Turn the 4th District Blue?
Two Democrats face off in June 5 primary for a shot at landing a knockout punch on a 38-year Republican incumbent
In District 5, Trash-Talking Republicans Keep Primary Race Down and Dirty
Steve Lonegan and John McCann outdo each other to prove who’s the real conservative
NJ’s Newest Medical School to Help Avert Shortage of Doctors in State
Governor cuts ribbon on Seton Hall program that will open July 9 with its first 60 students
Fishermen’s Energy Gets ‘Third Wind’ on Offshore Wind Pilot
Murphy signs bill requiring BPU to accept application from Fishermen’s, third time project will come before state agency
Envisioning the Future with Newark’s Roger León
In a far-ranging Q&A with NJ Spotlight, Newark’s new superintendent of schools touches on changes and challenges facing the state’s largest district
Poll: Should New Jersey Bag the Plastic Bags?
Those plastic bags trapped in trees or blowing down the street like urban tumbleweed are more than unsightly. They’re bad for the Garden State. But what’s the next step?
Opinion: Ending New Jersey’s Policy of Cruel and Usual Punishment
Undocumented immigrants are often tried and sentenced to deportation without benefit of legal counsel
Primary Fight in South Jersey Exposes Rift in Democratic Party
It's a divisive issue for Democrats: Back a candidate who speaks to the values of the party or one who can potentially win back conservatives and independents
Murphy Offers Loan Aid, Intern Funding to Keep STEM Students and Jobs in NJ
Students in high-tech fields would be eligible for up to $8,000 in debt forgiveness, in program governor promotes as ‘small down payment’ for significant economic return
Elbow to Elbow in the 11th as Democrats Jostle to Succeed Frelinghuysen
With longtime Republican congressman not running, five contenders vie for chance to flip district from red to blue
With No Incumbent in the 11th, Broad Range of Republicans Vie for Chance
Primary hopefuls include traditional party members, social moderates, and one contender who promises to use an online app to make sure he votes the way his constituents want
The Primary Color is Green: Candidates Raise $40M and Counting to Sway Your Vote
With the largest field of candidates in decades fighting for places on the November ballot, it’s raining dollars for many New Jersey political job applicants
Will New Jersey Ban the Bag — or Impose 5-Cent Fee on Each One?
One piece of legislation would phase out plastic bags entirely, while another would charge consumers a nickel — with the money going toward lead abatement
Commonwealth Fund Report Shows Healthcare Gains, But Gaps Persist
New Jersey finishes in middle of the pack nationally, with room to improve in several key areas, like preventative care and hospital readmissions for elderly
Op-Ed: The Myth of Sisyphus and the Achievement Gap
The tension between Americans’ belief in equality of educational opportunity and personal liberty means there will always be an achievement gap
State's Top Doc to Launch Peer-to-Peer Medical Marijuana Pitch
Forum seeks to help medical faculty, students, and others better understand potential uses and prescription protocols of the state’s medicinal cannabis program
Bill to End Banking of Sick Days Draws Angry Outcry from Public-Sector Unions
Assembly panel moves bill, despite PBA president saying he is ‘befuddled’ by Democratic backing. Other union heads join in outraged chorus
Battle is Red-Hot Between Democrats Who Want to Take on Republican Lance
Democratic operatives believe 7th District seat held by GOP congressman is ripe for turning ‘red to blue’ but first they’ve to settle on their own candidate
Federal Agency Says NJ Must Bear Full Cost of $1.2B Transmission Line
BPU argues reliability upgrade mandated by regional grid operator benefits New Jersey and New York, but FERC says Garden State must foot the bill
NJ Panel Urges Tighter Chemical Rule as EPA Mulls National Standard
If DEP adopts nation’s strictest proposal regarding PFOS, regulators could require public water systems and private well owners to limit amount of chemical in drinking water to 13 ppt
Murphy Holds to Christie’s Controversial Funding of State House Rehab
As a candidate, governor said ‘citizens ought to be outraged’ by complicated and secretive planning of project. Administration now says ‘undoing the deal’ not feasible
Op-Ed: Finding Root Causes for High Preterm Birth Rates Among Black Women
Racial inequality is a chronic stressor that takes a cumulative toll on African-American women, increasing the chance they will have health problems at younger ages
NJ Leaders Scramble to Protect Obamacare Gains Against Federal Threats
As Trump administration’s attacks on Affordable Care Act take a toll, legislators put up ramparts to try to defend the law in Garden State
Interactive Map: Cities Continue to Gain Residents, While Burbs Dwindle
Millennials, immigrants, and even a few baby boomers driving population gains in the Garden State’s urban counties
Republican Candidates in the Seventh, a Microcosm of Today’s GOP
Lance, the incumbent, has the money and the experience, but is he vulnerable to a challenge from the left or the right wing of his party?
NJ Will Go to Court over SALT ‘Workaround’ After IRS Warns It Will Stymie It
After agency questions legality of NJ's new law, Attorney General Grewal gives notice that Murphy administration will defend it all the way
Opinion: Remembering Our Heroes
On Memorial Day, we both celebrate what made our country great and acknowledge our responsibilities for its future
Coalition Wants More Tax Hikes on NJ’S Wealthy to Aid Low-Income Residents
Group supports governor’s plan for $1.7 billion in increased taxes, also proposes renewal of estate tax and other levies
At PJM Capacity Auction, Good News for Utilities — for Customers, Not So Much
Power grid operator secures the electricity needed to keep the lights on, but consumers can expect to see higher bills
Taking a Peek at $300M State House Restoration
The renovation project was controversial. But, even at this early stage, the work is uncovering an architectural gem
New Jersey Governor Backs Out of Live Call-In Show
Murphy balks at presence of Politico reporter in line-up
Murphy Signing Radically Alters NJ’s Energy Policies, Protects Nuclear
Governor puts signature to bill calling for half of the state’s electricity to come from renewable sources by 2030
Poor Security of NJ Election System and Russian Hackers Prompt Move to Revamp
No agreement on best voting machines, but consensus that they should allow for a paper trail so that results could be properly audited
Newark Health Centers Working to Reduce Health Disparities
Addressing the massive gaps in maternal health and infant mortality between black and white women and children
Sorting Out District 2’s Crowded Field of Contenders
Seven candidates — four Democrats and three Republicans — are vying for a chance at the House seat opened up by LoBiondo’s retirement
Byrne Bows out of Key Investment Panel as Murphy Puts His Stamp on It
Son of former governor satisfied he helped draw attention to state pension system’s huge unfunded liability and need for action
Op-Ed: Legalizing Marijuana Puts New Jersey Adolescents at Risk
We owe it to ourselves to be educated and informed about what recreational marijuana legalization will do to our society and especially our children
Clean Sweep for PSEG: Gas Pipelines, Nuclear Subsidies, Renewable Energy
BPU pledges to be careful on costs to consumers, who will shoulder the burden of subsidies and infrastructure upgrades
Putting Primary Candidates in Place: Who's Got a Shot at NJ's Senate Seat?
It’s been a low-key campaign thus far, but the contenders could catch fire — especially Menendez and Hugin — as June gets closer
Critical Data for Primary Decisions
From in-depth assessments of candidates and contests to at-a-glance overviews of legislative districts, NJ Spotlight delivers the facts and figures to make smart choices
Is New Jersey’s Gas Tax About to be Pumped Up?
Projections suggest revenue from the tax may not generate enough to meet annual target for funding transportation projects, thus triggering an automatic increase
Lawmakers Seek Another Route to Raise Pay for Home Healthcare Workers
No one begrudges paying those on the front lines of personal care $19 an hour, but no one seems to know where the money will come from
Newark Chooses One of Its Own to Serve as District Super
After more than two decades of state control of its schools, New Jersey’s largest city names Roger León to the top post
Op-Ed: Comprehensive High Schools, a Key Piece of the Vo-Tec Puzzle
Even if a $500 million bond issue for career and technical education goes through, comprehensive high schools won't get a penny
No ‘April Surprise’ in State Taxes, Budget Strain Remains for Murphy and Lawmakers
Hopes fizzled in State House that last month’s income taxes would rise above projections and ease disagreements over governor’s budget plan
New Drive to Finance Clean-Energy Projects with No Upfront Costs
Municipalities to arrange financing through lenders who would be repaid by special assessment on buildings where efficiency, storm shelters, flood-resistance were upgraded
NJ Asks Appeals Court to Review FERC’s Approval of PennEast Pipeline
Attorney General Grewal says agency wrong to give project certificate that has allowed it to file eminent domain suits against New Jersey landowners
Updating Care for Stroke Patients in New Jersey Hospitals
Move to expand and improve treatment, raise awareness, and highlight steps that could save lives
Slim Prospects: The Reality for Several Challengers to Congressional Incumbents
Dozens of candidates are running in the June primary elections. Some of the races are hotly contested, but incumbents are heavily favored in others
Op-Ed: Why Free Community College Is Right for New Jersey
Traditional grants and scholarships no longer keep college affordable. ‘Bold action,’ as Gov. Murphy has proposed, is necessary
No ‘Summer of Hell’ Repeat for NJ Transit Riders During New Penn Station Repairs
Uncertainty over funding for planned new trans-Hudson rail tunnel won’t affect Amtrak’s ongoing upgrades to infrastructure
Opinion: New Jersey’s Tangled History of Debt and How It Got that Way
Part two of an examination of capital planning and budgeting in the Garden State, the long and the short of it
Governor Approves Pay Raises for Judges, Cabinet Members, Senior State Officials
As measure passes with little attention, Murphy calls it long overdue but also says New Jerseyans on ‘substandard hourly wage’ should not be forgotten
Boost for NJ’s EV market with More Charging Stations, Consumer Rebates?
Up for debate: Expedited installation of plug-in stations across New Jersey for electric vehicles and up to $100 million a year in rebates for consumers
New Jersey Hit with Major Lawsuit Arguing It Must End School Segregation
Legal action — led by former justice of state Supreme Court — looks to strike down law requiring students attend schools in their own communities
New Regulations and Payment Protections for New Jersey’s Freelance Workers
With as many as 600,000 NJ residents now working as freelancers, Assemblyman says legislation is needed to ‘ensure they’re treated fairly’
Lawmakers Seek to Expand Medicaid Coverage for Smoking Cessation
Bill would deliver wide range of options to smokers, including counseling, group therapy, and full suite of medications
Op-Ed: An Open Letter to State Senate President Steve Sweeney
I'm not begging you for more money for Jersey City schools; I'm begging you for better policy
NJ Transit Running Late on Installing Braking Safety Systemwide
The agency is in danger of missing a federal deadline for putting in place positive train control
Ridesharing Programs Launched by State’s Largest Health Networks
Hackensack Meridian Health, RWJ Barnabas Health want to help patients get to appointments on time, at no extra out-of-pocket costs
Oliver Defends Murphy’s Flat Funding for Municipalities and His Raid on Housing Aid
Lt. Gov. blames budgetary constraints for failure to boost aid, says administration will help local officials in other ways
Segregation in New Jersey, Neither Chance nor Accident
Message to governor, argues author and fair-housing advocate, lead the push to truly integrate the Garden State
Pallone Accuses White House of Trying to Suppress Report on PFCs in Drinking Water
New Jersey has some of strictest standards in country for regulating the contaminants, but environmentalist says DEP's regulation process has slowed
Op-Ed: Expand New Jersey’s Pre-K to Strengthen National Security
We urge state legislators to help our children develop in mind, body, and character so they can succeed in school and in life, including in the military for those who choose to serve
End of Debt Nightmare in Sight for Students Who’ve Defaulted on Loans
Senate committee votes out bill requiring NJ Higher Education Assistance Authority to offer loan modification and consolidation to students in default
Expansion of Medical Marijuana Program Among Public Health Gains
DOH talks budget with Senate Budget Committee, explaining where funds go and what initiatives got lopped off
Scrambling to Upskill NJ with ‘Hollowed Out’ Labor Department — New Honcho
Murphy’s top labor official lays out plan to focus on career training and long-term unemployment, laments department was depleted by previous administrations
Op-Ed: Murphy's School-Aid Increases Will Not Help Property Taxes
Regular audits of education are needed, rather than propping up lopsided education aid and encouraging waste
Leading Democrat Adamant There’s Going to Be No Government Shutdown
‘As much as people would love to see’ governor and Democrats in Legislature fail to agree a budget, Sen. Sarlo says it’s not going to happen
Marijuana Legalization in NJ: Opportunities and Challenges
Legalized recreational marijuana could bring a significant boost to the state coffers, but for it to take off, numerous issues must be resolved
NJ Lawmakers Hope to Cash in Fast as Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Sports Gambling
New Jersey’s dogged quest to enable legalized sports betting pays off with major court win. Now there’s a bipartisan effort in Trenton to push through legislation and top up state coffers as a result
Opinion: Not Too Soon to Call the Murphy Agenda a Failure
A new budget must be ratified in six weeks, and there’s already talk of government shutdown — with the governor’s own party controlling the Legislature
DHS Explains Plans and Christie-Era Reforms at Budget Hearing
State’s largest department walks lawmakers through how it will put to work its $18 billion proposed spending plan for 2019
Acting DEP Commissioner McCabe Sails Through Confirmation Hearing
Many committee questions reflect disputes with prior administration headed by former Gov. Chris Christie
Online Tool Compares, Contrasts Health Issues in NJ’s Nine Largest Cities
City Health Dashboard also juxtaposes Garden State data with 500 biggest communities across United States
NJ and Legalized Marijuana: National Model or Petri Dish?
At NJ Spotlight roundtable on marijuana reform, participants say get ready for discussions to break out into the open — and look for legalization sooner rather than later
Some NJ Congressional Primary Candidates Argue Party-Line Politics Are Unfair
Deciding who the county party committee will endorse — thus who gets the party line on the ballot — is determined by a patchwork of processes that includes secret votes and show of hands
Public Employees Guilty of Sexual Assault, Harassment Would Forfeit Pensions
Prompted by #MeToo movement, Assembly panel votes out bill that would punish public officials, workers involved in sexual misconduct with loss of taxpayer-funded pensions
1981 Shore Protection Plan to Get Update to Match Today’s Realities
Sea-level rise, superstorms, shrinking salt marshes reflect changes in conditions since original plan was penned almost four decades ago
Another Delay in Medicaid Payment Reform for Mental Health Providers
Decision works in favor of providers of nonmedical services, like group housing, job training, and help with public transportation
Op-Ed: Big Revenue from ‘April Surprise’ No Excuse to Punt on Bold Action
An extra boost in income tax collections shouldn’t be used as political cover for hard decisions: It’s an unexpected one-time bonus and should be treated as such
Caught in Trump Immigration Squeeze, NJ Family Has Mother's Day Without Mom
President's crackdown on legal immigration has marooned one woman in El Salvador, unable to see her children this Mother's Day
Lawmakers Want to Improve Ratio of Aides to Patients in NJ Nursing Homes
Legislators say they want to advance care and safety, but facility operators express misgivings about the measure
State Still Struggling with Stormwater Runoff, Can New Bill Help?
Pollution from stormwater runoff is a $15 billion problem that won’t go away. Stormwater utilities could help Garden State get a handle on the solution
Murphy’s First High-Profile Conditional Veto Draws Applause from All Quarters
Unions like the way governor collaborated on bill affecting cops and firefighters’ retirement funds
Paid Family-Leave Bill Would Mean More Time, More Money for Workers
Co-sponsor Steve Sweeney calls measure ‘a lifeline for working families,’ but business owners and their advocates balk at the cost
Putting Acting Commissioner Repollet’s Staff Picks in Perspective
As he names assistant commissioners, Repollet draws both on newcomers and on department veterans
Op-Ed: Homelessness in NJ More Pervasive than HUD Data Reveals
The federal numbers reflect a ‘snapshot’ of homelessness on a single day, but the reality can be seen far more accurately using annual data
Is Smoking About to Become a Thing of the Past on New Jersey’s Beaches?
Promoters say a ban would protect beachgoers, cut down on litter, and lower maintenance costs
Bipartisan Push to Reform the Port Authority
With several blockbuster capital projects in the pipeline, lawmakers say increased legislative oversight of bistate agency is critical
Rough Ride for Education Official as She Pitches Community College Aid Plan
Members of Gov. Phil Murphy’s own party raise tough questions about his proposal for tuition-free community college in New Jersey
Despite Campaign Promises, Murphy Plans to Raid Affordable-Housing Fund
The governor wants to use almost $78 million dedicated to building homes for low- and middle-income residents to plug holes in the general fund
Murphy Request Could Slow Development of Wind Farms off NJ, NY
Governor asks feds for six-month extension to assess impact of offshore wind farms on state’s main fishing grounds
Lawmakers Seek to Expand Breastfeeding Options at Regional Airports
Making certain that airports in the New Jersey/New York area are ‘lactation-friendly’
Governor Signs Bill that Allows Undocumented Students to Get Financial Aid
New Jersey is now the ninth state to enable students who are unauthorized immigrants to tap into funding programs
Op-Ed: NJ Is Poised to Fight off ACA Sabotage. Is Gov. Murphy on Board?
Two bills are awaiting the governor’s signature: One would create a state version of the federal individual mandate; the other would help institute a cost-saving reinsurance program
Gov. Murphy’s ‘Scary’ and ‘Extreme’ Fiscal Policies
Assembly Minority Leader Bramnick suggests even Democratic lawmakers will be hard pressed to back the governor’s budget plan and call for higher taxes
New Law Would Relax State Strictures on Hair-Braiding in New Jersey
The practice has its roots in West Africa. Current NJ regulations require attendance at cosmetology schools, many of which have no classes on the subject
Offshore-Wind Developers Want More Details on State Straw Proposal
Realizing the administration’s ambitious goal for offshore wind means working out a funding mechanism, long an impediment for developer schemes
Thorny Reform of Medicaid Payments Gets State Oversight, One Year Later
Twelve months after a law was signed requiring supervision of controversial changes in payments to community mental health providers, it’s about to happen
Deep Dive into Data Drives New Report on Guns and Crime
Governor announces monthly report — GUNStat — that parses all available data on firearms to help law enforcement fight crime
Protesters Ask Governor to Quash Meadowlands Power Plant
Environmentalists say gas-fired plant, whose energy would be sent to New York City, would bring many hazards
Op-Ed: Bond Act for Career and Technical Education Will Secure the Future
Funding for more career and technical education will be a game-changer for workforce development in New Jersey
Growing Focus on Suicide Prevention, Especially Among Teens
Lawmakers, parents, advocates, educators, and mental health professionals are working on numerous fronts across the state to save lives
Murphy Appoints Horizon Executive as Gun Czar
Governor charges new adviser with stemming flow of illegal guns and ensuring that New Jersey makes the right moves on firearms
Assembly Committee Makes Fast Work of Bills for Home Energy Assistance
Included on docket cleared in just six minutes, three-bill package to help end fraud and abuse in federally funded Low-Income Energy Assistance Program
Red, White, or RosÉ — Assembly Bills to Help Build Up NJ’s Wineries
Eight measures that could make 2018 a very good year for New Jersey wines and the people who make them
Op-Ed: For Some Dentists, Prescribing Opioids Reflexively Is a Bad Habit
In the end, providers have the power to stop the opioid epidemic; despite guidelines and new regulations, treatment is still a judgment call
Move to Toughen Laws, Protect NJ Consumers’ Personal Information
Aim is to reduce risk of identity theft and stop credit cards from being opened in children’s names
State Strategic Plan Looks to Boost Energy Efficiency, Cut Customer Costs
Greatest savings most likely will be seen in commercial and industrial sectors, typically the biggest users of energy
What Do High Scores on NAEP Mean for Murphy’s PARCC Plans?
With NJ ranked at or near top on the Nation’s Report Card, some members of state board aren’t so sure PARCC needs to be scrapped
The List: NJ’s Honduran Population Will Suffer from Loss of Protected Status
Administration’s decision to strip Hondurans of temporary protected status could affect 3,700 New Jersey residents and their communities
Push to Expand Diabetes Education Puts NJ Among Small Group of States
State YMCAs jockey to be part of program, citing their ability to increase access in diverse communities
Law Lets Local Governments Treat Property Taxes as Charitable Contributions
Mayors are happy with new workaround, and state’s congressional delegation says it’s willing to fight for it, but nonprofits think it could kill charitable giving they depend on
We Have Inherited the Sun: NJ NAACP Enthused About Clean Energy
It is vitally important that we bring all people into the clean-energy movement regardless of race, creed, color, or economic status
Opponents of Bill Urge Governor to Veto or Revise Nuclear Subsidy Measure
Trouble continues to dog contentious bill as diverse group raises familiar objections at 11th hour
Interactive Map: Diversity Remains Elusive for NJ Schools and Districts
Despite efforts to encourage integration, state’s public school system continues to be among the most segregated in the nation
Diversion Program Would Help Keep Mentally Ill Out of Jail
Bill would establish crisis-intervention training for law enforcement to reduce number of mentally ill people arrested or in court system
Coughlin Pledges Full Restoration of Homestead Property-Tax Relief
Assembly Speaker’s declaration sets up possible showdown with governor, who has signaled support but no firm commitment to reinstate previous level of funding
Murphy’s Latest Executive Order Looks to Crack Down on Misclassified Workers
EO would create task force to identify companies classifying full-time workers as independent contractors, a practice that costs state some $9 million every year
Op-Ed: How We’ve Reduced Backlog of Environmental Remediation Cases in NJ
Nine years into a program to cut down on New Jersey’s overload of chemically contaminated sites, the results have been impressive
Murphy Inks Contract with CWA Without Knowing What It Will Cost Taxpayers
Governor’s ‘I don’t know the exact number …’ reflects confusion in general, since budget plan contains contradictory figures for union raises
Pallone Wants to Expand Medicare, Help Millions Avoid ‘Financial Ruin’
Congressman says federal government must provide cash to cover costs of long-term care, other services
Bringing Energy Savings to Underserved Market — Multifamily Dwellings
Consultants working on plan to help simplify and streamline state’s Clean Energy Program
Paterson Starts on Long Road Back to Local Control
More than two decades after the takeover, state starts to review how it makes these critical decisions
New Jersey First State in Line to Ban Marriage for those Under 18
Despite some Republican opposition, there’s bipartisan support for effort to prevent teenagers, young girls especially, from being forced into unwanted unions
Opinion: Why Is This (Expletive Deleted) Funny?
Michelle Wolf’s f-bomb-studded comic routine at the White House Correspondents Association dinner shows just how much profanity has replaced political satire
How One University Is Luring Top Honors Students with Social Justice
To revitalize its home city, Rutgers University-Newark has started an honors program that looks beyond test scores to students’ commitment to equality and social change
New Jersey’s Nuclear Subsidies Could Go to Out-of-State Plants
PSEG head acknowledges nuclear plants in Pennsylvania could benefit from subsidies awarded to his company
Opinion: Capital Planning and Budgeting Do Not Exist in New Jersey
New Jersey does capital planning in a fragmented manner — there is no prioritization of projects and no overall plan to finance needed infrastructure investments.
NJ Signs on to Multistate Lawsuit to Preserve Tough Fuel-Economy Standards
The state’s transportation sector is the largest source of carbon pollution in the state, accounting for approximately 42 percent of greenhouse-gas emissions
NJ Supreme Court Ruling Refines State’s Criminal Justice Reform Program
Unanimous decision says judges cannot determine whether to detain someone based solely on crime committed, except in cases of murder, sex trafficking, and other heinous offenses
Murphy Team Revamps Transportation Spending, Works to Beef Up NJ Transit
Reversing approach of previous governors, administration commits to more ‘pay-as-you-go’ for transit improvements, less debt
NJ High School Students Focus Energy, Efforts on Registering to Vote
Gun-control protests have taught students they have a voice that will be heeded. Now they are funneling their drive into civic engagement
New Owner Eager to Take Over Struggling South Jersey Hospital
Powerful local politicians keep close watch; not all services that previously had been eliminated would be restored
It’s Time to Bring Safe Staffing to New Jersey Nursing Homes
New Jersey nursing homes rank among the bottom in the country for average CNA staffing-hours per patient. But CNAs are often both caregivers and family to their patients
Op-Ed: Workers and Environmentalists Stand in Solidarity on Climate
We stand together for worker protections and strong climate policies because we can’t have one without the other. An injury to the planet is an injury to us all
New Jersey Transit Running Late on Positive Train Control
Missing December deadline could mean fines, having NJT trains banned from using Hudson tunnels into New York Penn Station
Newark Transformed: From Brick City to High-Tech City
Gov. Murphy celebrates Newark’s rebirth at NJBIA conference, points to city as model for other communities looking to reinvent themselves
Is Long Wait for Offshore-Wind Financing Mechanism Over?
BPU announces public hearing on still-undisclosed proposal detailing how utility customers would subsidize offshore wind
Proposed Pipeline Extension Raises Ire, Environmental Concerns
Residents want to know why New Jersey takes the risk but New York gets the gas
Q&A with David Socolow, the New Executive Director at HESAA
The Higher Education Student Assistance Authority is reinventing itself — with some legislative help — as an agency commited to helping students borrow wisely, without incurring a burden of debt
BPU Grants Sayreville Steel Plant Discount on Energy Bill
State agency lets Gerdau Steel skate on societal benefit charge — except portion that goes to clean-energy program
Murphy Talks Mass Transit, Infrastructure to Regional Plan Association
Governor demonstrates commitment to projects and initiatives RPA must be heavily involved with
GOP Wants to Yank Gateway Funds Out of Trump’s Signed 2019 Budget
Effort turns on a rarely used political procedure known as ‘rescission’ that makes it possible to rescind funds that have been approved for a specific purpose
NJ Healthcare Leaders Explore Alliances on State Policy Issues
Despite differences among stakeholders, all can come together on regulatory stability, innovation, and underlying public health concerns
Repollet Delivers PARCC Pitch and Plan to Educators
Acting education commissioner explains where the state is with the contentious test — and where it’s headed
Program to Feed Hungry Kids, Families Should Build on Strong Foundation
Child and Adult Care Food Program is getting job done, according to report, but could reach more children and parents if it made needed reforms
Murphy Talks Politics, Disses His Predecessor
Governor discusses his first 100 days and how he plans to work with Legislature to get his budget approved
Subaru of America Decides to Call Camden ‘Home’
Company CEO says they’ve already given over $2 million in just the past two years to charitable organization in the city
Opinion: PARCC’s Long Goodbye, a Very Good Thing for New Jersey
Promising to scrap PARCC on Day 1 made for a good sound bite, but it makes for bad education policy
Christie May Be Out, But He Still Has a Taxpayer-Funded Staffer and Office
The current state budget has a $250,000 line item dedicated to — guess who? — our former governor
PSEG Will Pay $39M for Bidding Errors to Power Grid Operator
Mistakes chiefly affect how much customers pay for electricity
Federal Autism Study Shows New Jersey’s Rates on the Rise
Diagnosis of disorder jumps 19 percent among eight-year-olds since 2012
New Jersey’s Voting Machines: Is Safe Enough Good Enough?
Although the state’s voting machines aren’t linked to the internet, experts warn that gives officials a false sense of security. What’s needed are machines that deliver a paper audit trail of every vote
Sweeney Speaks: Boosting Corporate Taxes, Blocking Millionaires Tax
In an interview with NJ Spotlight, state Senate president discusses plan to levy new taxes on companies netting more than $1M annually and why he still sees tax hikes as a last resort
Opinion: Sweeney’s Jersey City Gambit for Education Aid
The Senate president’s strategy to redistribute aid from overfunded districts is far more palatable than Murphy’s plan to raise taxes
DOH Budget Hearing Highlights Changes under Gov. Murphy
Lawmakers question funding cuts to some pet programs
Murphy Celebrates 100 Days in Office, Will Next 100 Be More of a Challenge?
Ahead for the new governor: getting his budget, the largest in state history, through the Legislature, the millionaires tax, school funding — and that’s just for starters
Supersized Natural-Gas Power Plant Would Supply Energy to New York
North Bergen OK with proposed site, but administration, environmentalists argue it would add to air pollution in stressed urban area
Poll: Murphy at 100 Days — off the Charts or off the Mark?
Rather than assessing the governor’s first 100 days, we’d like to know how our readers rank and rate him
Racial tensions flare at Newark’s elite Science Park High School
Parents, teachers, administrators, and students wrestle with admission policies that some say are racist
Newark Faces Court Test over Lead Levels in Water
Two organizations argue city supplies show nearly twice the federal-action level for the contaminant
‘Black Mamas’ Highlight Racial Maternal-Health Disparities
New Jersey leaders acknowledge state ‘needs to do better’
Dollar for Dollar — Gender Pay-Equity Law Signed by Gov. Murphy
Legislation also bars companies from punishing employees who discuss their pay with colleagues, allows workers to sue for triple damages if they can prove discrimination
NJ's Top Court Ends Lifetime Registration for Minors Under Megan’s Law
Unanimous ruling says requiring juvenile sex offenders to register and notify their communities for life is violation of due process
It Was a Traffic Jam, Not a Crime!
Attorneys for Kelly, Baroni seek to overturn Bridgegate convictions
Fort Monmouth Poised for Second Life as Tech Hub
Sprawling, two-square-mile property could also be redeveloped as walkable community for millennials
Making Life a Little Easier for Women — or Any Parent — Serving Time in Prison
High-profile arrests of prison guards charged with sexual assault in state’s only women’s prison draw attention to problems some lawmakers say have been neglected too long
Acting Education Commissioner Says PARCC Here for at Least Another Year
Repollet explains the expensive ins and outs of ending one testing program and ramping up another
Nationwide Expansion of NJ Program to Reduce Opioid Use
Strategy makes opioids the drug of last resort in emergency rooms, cutting their use in state’s busiest ER by more than 80 percent
DEP Denies Lakewood’s Bid for Designation as Regional Center
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection blocks huge development project for second time, citing failure to address water-supply needs
Murphy Says He’ll Back NJ Transit Plans to Get More Bus Drivers on the Road
Governor also indicates he’s behind the push to hire other personnel to help agency achieve on-time performance across the state
The Asylum Paradox
Once they've been granted asylum, immigrants often have nowhere to go, and may spend the night in homeless shelters or on the streets
What Would ‘Full Funding’ of School Aid Look Like? Add $2.3B to Districts
OLS releases figures that put a price tag on full funding — increase would be offset by reduction of $660 million in transition aid
Hospital Aid Remains Stable, Following Years of Cuts
But charity care for mostly urban hospitals would be beefed up by Murphy’s decision not to take money away from the program
The List: Dems Who’ve Scored Big Using Website for Small Donations
ActBlue’s digital fundraising tools let voters make mostly small donations to the candidates and causes they support — and has pulled in $3.6 million to date
Is a Tax Amnesty for Delinquent Filers in the Offing for New Jersey?
If passed by Legislature, the proposal would eliminate some fines and penalties, but would not reduce the principal owed
PSE&G Wants BPU to OK $1.9B Plan to Upgrade Gas Pipelines
Five-year program would enable state’s largest utility to replace hundreds of miles of cast-iron and steel pipes with new gas mains
Murphy Accuses Texas Gov. Abbott of Trying to Rustle Garden State Companies
Abbott draws first, bragging about low taxes of the Lone Star State, but Murphy fires back with both barrels, saying schools and healthcare in Texas can’t hold a candle to New Jersey’s
Safe Sleep for Babies — Rutgers Researchers Now Have an App for That
Scientists use technology to help parents protect their infants from sudden unexpected death
FERC Reviews Its Policies for Approving Natural-Gas Pipelines
Critics say federal agency rubber-stamps projects, without evaluating if a pipeline is truly needed and gauging its environmental impact
Interactive Map: Where New Jerseyans Are Hungriest
Federal legislation before Congress could strip thousands of New Jersey’s most vulnerable citizens of their SNAP food-assistance benefits
Op-Ed: Camden’s Next School Superintendent Must Build on Predecessor’s Success
The district is smaller, the politics has changed, but we still need to address major education challenges in New Jersey’s poorest city
Does School Security Mean Transforming Facilities into Fortresses?
Active shooter drills, armed guards, video surveillance, safety training for all personnel, including lunch aides and janitors — is this the new face of education in New Jersey?
State Diverts $69M from VW Settlement to General Fund
Clean-air advocates wind up with $72 million, had hoped total amount would go to fighting greenhouse-gas emissions
Reform Pending for New Jersey’s Medical Examiner System
Overworked, underfunded agency will be transferred to Department of Health, in line for cash infusion, new chain of command
Governor Shows Off Another Benefit of His Bigger Budget
Murphy highlights more money for Educational Opportunity Fund in his spending plan and doesn’t retreat from higher taxes despite lawmakers’ hesitancy
NJ Supreme Court Rules No Taxpayer Money to Restore Active Churches
State’s top court decides taxpayer funds cannot be awarded to houses of worship still serving a congregation, even if goal is historic preservation of church structures
Op-Ed: We Need to Take the Trauma Out of Childhood
Thousands of children in New Jersey have been through traumatic events that can have profound long-term consequences. It’s our job to help them
Is 2018 the Year When New Jersey, Ever in a Tax Fix, Finds a Fix for its Taxes?
New Jerseyans kvetch about the state’s high taxes, and nothing seems to change. But, momentum might now be with those who want a radical review of taxes and spending in the Garden State
Will Murphy Let Company Dump Treated Wastewater into Delaware River?
Opponents worry that loophole in bill on governor’s desk will allow fracking waste to be discharged into river
Murphy Administration Keeps Expanding Access to Medical Marijuana
Proposal would let patients get medical marijuana prescriptions from physicians who treat their underlying disease or symptoms of that disease, like pain and nausea
Repollet Walks Back Stance on School Aid, Says He’s Open to Compromise
Administration’s willingness to shift gears may get acting commissioner through the full confirmation process
Who’s in the Money? NJ’s 2018 Congressional Primaries — And Sole Senate Race
With the first quarter reports filed, this year’s contests are already shaping up to be expensive
Op-Ed: Minority Student Program at 50 — Still Centerpiece of Rutgers Law
At the half-century mark, Rutgers’ MSP has transformed the face of legal education at the school where it began and across the country
Governor Signs Law Adding New Jersey to List of ‘Motor Voter’ States
Automatic voter registration at motor vehicle agencies for Garden State, and Republicans lawmakers not too happy about that prospect
Students’ Lives Are Priceless, But School Security Can Break the Budget
After Sandy Hook and Parkland, schools need military-grade imaging, metal detectors, wands, magnetic locks, ID card scanners, and surveillance cameras with livestream capabilities
ACUA’s Battery-Storage System, First Financed by NJ's Clean Energy Fund
Atlantic County Utilities Authority will back up wastewater treatment plant — powered in part by solar and wind — if grid goes down
Do We Need to Talk? — There’s a Push to Increase End-of-Life Planning in NJ
Proponents point to higher rate of aggressive medical treatment and higher costs for patients nearing death in Garden State
Opinion: Saving the ACA, One Step at a Time
New Jersey lawmakers have passed two bills that would maintain important features of the Affordable Care Act
Murphy Close to Restoring Enterprise Zones in 5 Cash-Strapped Communities
Move would reverse former Gov. Christie’s decision to strip UEZs from Bridgeton, Camden, Newark, Plainfield, and Trenton
Whether Undocumented Students Get State Financial Aid Now Down to Murphy
Immigrants, advocacy groups look to Democratic governor to sign off on financial aid program that would help New Jersey’s undocumented students attend college
Clean Vehicles Face Long, Bumpy Road to Acceptance in New Jersey
New Jersey Clean Air Council reviews roadblocks to wider adoption of zero-emission vehicles — cost, charging infrastructure, lack of public awareness
Horizon Leads Opioid Awareness and Prevention Program Focused on Youth
Program with Rutgers pharmacy school touched nearly 2,000 kids in past year
One on One with Paymon Rouhanifard, Camden’s Departing Superintendent
Rouhanifard fields questions about progress in Camden, rise of charters, carrying his work forward, statewide exams, and coaching b-ball at Camden High
The Goal Is Economic Growth, the Question Is How Best to Get There
For Gov. Murphy, investments and tax hikes would deliver the revenue to fuel expansion, but members of his own party are adamantly opposed to higher taxes
Op-Ed: For New Jersey State Aid, Let Money ‘Follow the Child’
The School Funding Reform Act directs that the money it awards should ‘follow the child,’ but its own requirements make it impossible to do so
ICE Moves to Deport Egyptian Dissident Who Says He Faces Hanging Back Home
Ahmed Abdelbasit, who teaches physics in an Islamic school, applied for asylum but was picked up by ICE because he was not a legal resident
Lawmakers Want Voters to Approve $1B Bond Issue for School Safety and Vo-Techs
Original bond was for $500M to upgrade NJ’s vocational-technical and community colleges, but legislators want to double it to improve school security
With Little Fuss or Fanfare, Legislature Passes Clean-Energy Bills
Murphy and Sweeney both get what they want, but how will consumers feel about shouldering the burden of more subsidies?
NJ Set to Enact Insurance Law, So Is this the End of ‘Surprise’ Medical Bills?
Most interest groups support controversial measure to control out-of-network insurance costs, but many physicians unhappy
Beyond Signs and Slogans: What Does Rutgers’ Adjunct Faculty Want?
Part-time lecturers are asking for pay equity, affordable healthcare, and job security. Rutgers says it can’t afford to fund those requests
Opinion: Despite Potential Savings, New Jersey Has No Urge to Merge
Consolidation has been a tough sell in the Garden State, as Sen. Sweeney has found. Residents want their ‘own’ police, fire departments, and elected officials
Can Automatic Voter Registration Fill Out NJ’s Anemic Voter Rolls?
Both houses pass versions of a bill that would automatically register voters when they visit motor vehicles — or other state agencies that interact with the public
Senate Approves Muoio for State Treasurer, Only Second Woman to Get the Nod
Former assemblywoman makes her own bit of history in a busy week — she was already doing the rounds, explaining governor’s budget plan to lawmakers
Murphy and Sweeney: NJ Politics’ Great Divide
‘Festering feud’ between two most powerful pols in New Jersey gets uglier
Customers Criticize JCP&L for Winter Storm Outages
Blackouts extended beyond a week, endangering seniors, people with disabilities, local official says
‘Shaq Tower’ Marks a Milestone in Downtown Newark
NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal visits former home to watch workers finish top floor of his high-rise apartment and retail building on Rector Street
After Complaints, Governor Willing to Rework Budget for School Funding?
Acting state Treasurer gives assurance of Murphy’s cooperation in finding remedy, as lawmakers let her know they’ve been taking ‘public fire’ on the issue
Down to the Wire: Controversial Clean-Energy Bills Scheduled for Vote
Vote before Assembly and Senate may be imminent, but advocates and opponents continue to quarrel — especially over nuclear subsidy measure
Judge Orders Horizon to Let Public See Details Behind OMNIA Insurance Plan
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield has fought to keep McKinsey report secret, but judge rules it is of ‘legitimate public interest.’ Horizon to appeal
Pain Relief for College Students Overburdened by Loan Debt
Legislators turn their attention to problems facing student borrowers, backing bills that would keep them from being overwhelmed by loan repayments
Op-Ed: People with Disabilities Must Remain Vigilant
Many of us unfortunately need government assistance to live and remain as healthy as possible, but we are not a line item to easily be slashed
Muoio Says ‘It’s Time to Face Facts,’ New Jersey — Why Tax Hikes Are Needed
Acting state Treasurer talks about $161 million budget deficit but, so far, lawmakers show little enthusiasm for shape of Gov. Murphy’s first budget plan
NJ Public Schools Perform on Par or Better on ‘Nation’s Report Card’
Despite progress among poor and minority students, achievement gaps must still be bridged
Another Push to Get More Clean Cars on New Jersey’s Roads
Proposal would deliver rebates of $100M annually over three years to drivers who switch to plug-in vehicles
Should New Jersey Start Banking on a State Bank?
Advocates say a public bank — an idea talked up by Murphy during his campaign — could create jobs, boost state earnings, and increase economic activity
New Drive for More Elective Angioplasty, Community Hospitals Say Long Overdue
Legislative reform could ease regulations governing where cardiovascular procedure can be performed — and bring economic benefits to small hospitals and their patients
Op-Ed: Cutting Food Assistance Is No Pathway to Employment
Taking away food assistance is not the way to get people on the path to employment that can sustain them and their families
Rise in Opioid-Exposed Newborns in NJ Prompts State Awareness Campaign
Number of infants exposed to drugs or alcohol in the womb doubled in New Jersey between 2008 and 2016
FERC Says PSEG Subsidiary Made False Statements over 9-Year Period
Federal agency contends alleged violations occurred when company was bidding into power auction to set prices consumers pay for electricity
State Shortchanges Poor Towns in South Jersey on Municipal Aid — New Report
Economically distressed communities in southern NJ suffer from significant state underfunding compared to municipalities in northern end of state
Curbing the Influence of Special-Interest Groups on NJ Elections
State’s independent election watchdog and Democratic and Republican lawmakers push to revise New Jersey’s campaign-finance laws
Op-Ed: Celebrating Our Preschool Success
Research has found that the Abbott program produces persistent academic gains through the fifth grade for children enrolled in two years of preschool and narrowed achievement gaps — among other benefits
Murphy Earmarks $53M for Statewide Expansion of Pre-K
Governor says there’s ‘violent agreement’ about wisdom of investing in early education as he promotes funding for 5,300 new preschool slots
‘Surprise’ Medical Bill Advances, With Hospitals on Board
Physicians still concerned reform would harm specialists, patient care
Deep Cuts to Homestead Tax-Relief Program Courtesy of Christie’s 2018 Budget
Seniors and disabled homeowners could see their tax-relief rebates cut by almost half, with no funding to restore them in Murphy’s 2019 budget plan — at least not yet
Trump Administration Opens New Offshore Wind Leases
Interior secretary calls wind part of administration’s ‘all-of-the-above’ energy policy, wants to gauge interest in shallow waters between NJ and Long Island
The List: No NJ Baby Bust for Unmarried Women Ages 35 and Older
But census data shows that births to unmarried teens plummeted by 80 percent
Camden’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
In just a few years, the Camden SMART Initiative has invested over $25 million in the city, created 50 infrastructure projects, and planted more than 1,500 trees
Op-Ed: We’re Facing the Fate of Wall-E
As toys become extinct, so may our children’s critical design skills
Nuclear Energy Powers New Jersey’s Economy and Communities
People are what make the safety-net legislation so important: All totaled, nuclear represents about 6,000 direct and indirect jobs
Amid Arguments and Warnings, Nuclear Subsidy Bill Clears Committee
Clean-energy measures also voted out, but nuclear bill looms large — particularly when it comes to costs to ratepayers
Assembly Advances Vaccine Bill, Despite Angry, Tearful Protests
Measure would tighten religious exemptions in effort to boost public health
Take Two: Move to Revive NJ Tax Breaks for Moviemakers, Other Producers
Former Gov. Chris Christie shut down previous program, questioning its value to New Jersey. He’s not the only skeptic
NJ Landowners in Federal Court to Fight Pipeline Company on Eminent Domain
Dozens of New Jersey landowners were in court yesterday to challenge PennEast’s efforts to take possession of parts of their properties
Interactive Map: Wealthy Suburbs Biggest Winners in NJ Property-Tax Deduction
Homeowners in best-off communities save far more than residents of low-income cities — and are likely to save even more if Legislature adopts governor’s proposal to raise the deduction
Op-Ed: An Investment in STEM Is an Investment in New Jersey’s Future
STEM education must be maximized, and we must make sure that women, blacks, and Latinos
are among those that receive this essential training
NYPD Pays $1 Million, Vows Surveillance Reforms After Settling with NJ Muslims
As part of settlement, NYPD confirmed that it dismantled the Demographics Unit that surveilled Muslims
Offshore Wind Blows New Life into Dormant Partnership
Gov. Murphy’s aggressive ambitions for offshore wind are generating energy and enthusiasm for a sector that stalled under Christie
Making Sure Murphy Administration Prioritizes Environmental Justice
Activists argue poor communities of color have been adversely affected by pollution in all its forms for far too long
New Funds for NJ Groups to Combat Threats to Delaware River Basin’s Water Quality
Millions of dollars more for grassroots efforts in New Jersey and adjoining states to tackle dangers to vital source of drinking water
Pension System Sells off Stake in Manufacturer of Semi-Automatic Rifles
Legislators argue that complete ban on investments in all gun and ammunition makers must be written into law
Sorting Out the Primary Pack for NJ’s Midterm Congressional Races
NJ Spotlight’s Colleen O’Dea visits WHYY and puts the contests in context
Op-Ed: Out-of-Network Bill Is Insurers’ Dream and Middle-Class Nightmare
Impending legislation would lead to job losses in medical practices, drastically cut physician reimbursements, and damage emergency care
Governor Tries to Calm the Waters Between Hoboken and Ferry Company
Murphy intervenes in row over future of three-acre waterfront shipyard
Murphy Sets New Direction for Tackling Opioid Epidemic
Governor outlines $100 million spending on range of anti-addiction programs to be underpinned by data and analysis ... and a pivot away from Christie-like media promos
Menendez’s First Campaign Video: Just a Regular Guy Fighting for New Jerseyans
But Republican Hugin is first on the tube with a TV spot labeled ‘Disgraced’
Democratic Heavy Hitters Ready to Revise Murphy’s Budget Plan
Sweeney, Sarlo make no bones about wanting changes to governor’s proposals on taxes and on funding for education
NJ to Join Clean Car Initiative, as EPA Eases Fuel-Economy Standards
Eight-state initiative hopes to have more than 3 million zero-emission vehicles on road by 2025
Opinion: Letter to the Hon. Chief Justice Rabner of the NJ Supreme Court
Justice for All/Justicia para Todos — a proposed program that could ease an enormous amount of misery for very little money
Making Sure the Lights Stay on in All Kinds of Weather
Without resilient and stable energy sources, there is nothing to stop future extreme weather from adversely impacting the delivery of cost-efficient and clean energy to millions of New Jerseyans
New Jersey’s Midterm Congressional Contest Attracts 51 Contenders
With the possibility of at least three districts flipping from red to blue, and anti-Trump feelings running high, the June 5th primary will be the one to watch
McGreevey to Fight Murphy’s ‘Catastrophic’ Cuts to Prisoner Re-Entry Program
As rehabilitation efforts gain ground in other states, current governor’s withdrawal of funding for NJ nonprofit backed by his predecessor is ‘inexplicable’
EPA Relaxes Tough Fuel-Economy Standards for Cars, Light Trucks
Federal agency rollback makes it more difficult to eliminate air pollution in New Jersey, reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, smog
New Jersey Looks to California for Gun-Violence Research Model
Lawmakers tap Rutgers University, possibly as home for Firearm Violence Research Center that would study all facets of the issue
Municipalities Skittish Over Murphy Administration’s Tweaks to Current Budget
Treasury officials say, not to worry, it’s just an accounting adjustment but local officials fear for their bottom line
Op-Ed: New Jersey’s Path to Zero-Subsidy Offshore-Wind Bids
New Jersey’s utilities are required by federal law to provide nondiscriminatory open access to the grid, so if they built and operated New Jersey’s offshore grid the result would be a level playing field
Are Transparency and Oversight Coming to Port Authority at Last?
A reworked reform bill and a sympathetic Democratic governor in Trenton could mean progress on an initiative that’s been spinning its wheels since 2011
New Jersey’s Troubling Trend, Increase in Bias and Hate Crimes
State attorney general says rise in reported incidents partly the result of country’s ‘political leaders’ who countenance ‘intolerance and hatred’
State Expands Access to Hepatitis-C Drugs for Medicaid Patients
Proposed rule change would allow patients to receive treatment before they exhibit some degree of liver damage
Moody’s Likes the Look of NJ, Other Northeastern States, for Offshore Wind
Favorable regulatory climate, natural attributes like wind speed, shallow waters, proximity to cities with high energy demand play into favorable assessment
Camden Finds Strength in Its Partners
The Camden SMART initiative knows that the smartest way to reach its goals — a cleaner, happier environment — is by drawing on the strength and expertise of partners
Opinion: Sweeney On Murphy’s Gun Legislation — What’s the Hurry?
The Senate president may want time for negotiation and compromise, but he runs the risk of being seen as blocking progress on the emotionally charged issue of gun control
With Yellow Vests and 'ICE-Sniffing Dog,' Activists Watch for Immigration
Volunteers patrol each day municipal court is in session, ready to take pictures and video on their phones if any arrests are made
Better Data Equals Better Public Policy, Researchers Say
State developing interactive app that will let patients, providers, and policymakers work directly with Medicaid stats
Pleas for Increases in State Aid as Murphy’s Budget Gets Its First Close-Up
ALS patient appeals for more assistance while it’s clear school funding will once again be the crux of the matter for lawmakers
Will Making It Easier to Vote Increase Participation in NJ Elections?
Among the reforms introduced by several bills: automatic voter registration when residents renew their licenses and a secure website that will let them vote online
New Jersey Natural Gas Looks to Roll Out Energy-Efficiency Portfolio
Utility goes to BPU with $341M filing to fund rebates and incentives for commercial, industrial, and residential customers — including those with limited incomes
Opinion: Federal Aid to New Jersey Is Secure
Despite draconian cuts originally proposed in the president's budget, Congress made more rational decisions and provided hefty increases in discretionary spending
Democratic Big Guns Come Out to Help Menendez Launch Re-Election Campaign
New Jersey’s senior senator supported by array of party notables as he begins bid
Gov. Murphy’s Kinder, Gentler Medical Marijuana Program
Plan, endorsed by patient advocates and cannabis industry representatives, adds new conditions that can be treated, doubles THC levels — for starters
Expunging Marijuana Records the Way to Go — or a Big Headache for NJ Courts?
Case being made that people should be able to clear their records, but concern that tens of thousands would flood the system
Amazon Expands Chain of Warehouses Along NJ Turnpike
Online retailer, now one of New Jersey’s largest employers, takes advantage of state’s key location and infrastructure
Does the Jersey Shore Need a Regional Coastal Commission?
Proponents contend that planning for — and dealing with — climate change, rising sea levels, and extreme storms can’t be done on a town-by-town basis
Census Citizenship Question to Push NJ’s Undocumented into Shadows?
New Jersey will join multistate lawsuit against federal government to prevent question from being included on next decennial census
Op-Ed: A Great Idea Whose Time Has Come — Again
A bill being considered by lawmakers would provide the seed money for an initiative that would return control of local and community news, civic information to New Jerseyans
Amid Surge in Hate, Rutgers Seeks Balance Between Safety and Free Speech
Consensus that it's not easy to counter outpouring of hate-filled voices
NJ Assembly Passes Several Gun-Control Bills, with Some GOP Support
Gun-rights advocates rally in Trenton, but there’s overwhelming support for panoply of measures to increase restrictions
Repollet Confirmation, as Much Celebration as Cross-Examination
Murphy’s choice for commissioner of education draws applause at Senate Judiciary hearing
Muoio Moves a Step Closer to Formal Approval as New Jersey’s Financial Boss
Senate committee approves acting State Treasurer for the permanent position after grilling her about tax policy and spending
Another Win for Police, Firefighters in Effort to Control Own Pension Fund
Big support in Trenton for legislation to revamp management of Police and Firemen's Retirement System, but what does the governor think?
Federal Tax Reform Means Slightly Lower Bills for NJ Ratepayers
New Jersey Board of Public Utilities sets new tariffs for water companies and gas and electric utilities
Hungry Kids Can’t Learn: Feeding More Students Breakfast, Lunch at School
A package of bills seeks to expand number of poor and low-income students getting federally funded meals at school, track those not being fed
Op-Ed: 50 Years Later — Fight for Racial Justice Continues, From Ground up
If there is a lesson for progressive people to learn from the past half century, it is this: People who care about racial and social justice cannot afford to be timid
State’s Bonded Debt Soars to Nosebleed Heights: $46.1 Billion
It gets worse: New Jersey’s grand total owed to bondholders, public workers, and other groups climbs to stratospheric $200-plus billion
Offshore Wind Farm Gets Closer to Cranking Out Megawatts
Long-delayed pilot off Atlantic City gets OK from legislative panel, but some environmentalists argue it’s time to move directly to full-scale projects
Better Data, Better Access, Fewer Disparities Among NJ’s Healthcare Goals
Data transparency benefits patients, policymakers, but remains elusive objective
Three Ways to Get Local Youth Involved in Your Community
Young people’s interest in environmental issues makes them ideal candidates to learn ways to make an appreciable difference in their neighborhoods and the wider community
New Opportunity For New Jersey’s Distressed Towns and Cities
Gov. Phil Murphy has designated 75 municipalities as Opportunity Zones, enabling them to benefit from private capital investment
NJ Democrats Ramp Up Efforts to Move State to Left in Post-Christie Era
Push is on to enact gun-control legislations and measure to help undocumented immigrants pay for college — among others — all blocked by former governor
Op-Ed: This is No Time for a Time Out on Charter Schools
My message to the governor: charter schools are the future of New Jersey education; preventing the growth of these schools is an injustice to our citizens
Lawmakers Go for Hybrid Proposal to Expand Medical Marijuana Program in NJ
Plan is for twice as much medicine for patients, twice as many growers, and dozens of dispensaries across the state
NJ Files in Federal Court to Stop PennEast from Condemning Protected Land
Roughly half of the properties pipeline company wants to seize under eminent domain are preserved as open space and farmland
Federal Spending Bill Before Congress Could Mean $541M for Gateway Project
Far from the $30 billion the Gateway tunnel and Portal Bridge will ultimately cost, federal funds could get shovels in the ground for critical infrastructure initiative
A Beautiful Picture: NJ Schools Offer Art Classes for Almost Every Student
Art educators say it’s about more than painting or music or drama; art helps students explore who they are and can help them find their way in life
Newark Airport Workers Cheer as Port Authority Votes for $19 Minimum Wage
The increase would be phased in, culminating in 2023. No word yet on cost of the proposal
Op-Ed: Let’s Make New Jersey the Healthiest State in the Country
The time for communities, decision makers, and practitioners to evaluate the potential health effects of a plan, policy, or project is before it is adopted, implemented, or built
Questions for the Governor on Drugs, Taxes, Guns… and Musical Comedy
Gov. Phil Murphy kicks off first in series of bi-monthly radio call-ins by answering the obvious questions along with the less obvious
If Murphy Holds Municipal Aid Flat, Can Property Taxes Go Anywhere But Up?
The proposed budget represents the eighth consecutive year of flat funding, while inflation has continued to climb
Explainer: Here’s How the Governor Plans to Ease Property Taxes — a Bit
While Gov. Phil Murphy’s budget proposal would give homeowners a bigger write-off, it would keep in place rules that hold down other relief programs
Poll: Do You Back the Governor’s Tax Hikes?
When running for office, Gov. Phil Murphy talked about raising taxes — and his budget plan follows through. How do you like his proposal?
Lawmakers Seek to Expand Access to Overdose Antidote
Schools and prisons are the targets of two measures meant to save lives and block opioid use
New Jersey Looks to $50M Bond Issue to Fund Stormwater Management
Stormwater pollution has long been recognized as a huge problem in the Garden State, but an even bigger problem has been finding funds to deal with it
Op-Ed: Legislature Must Act to Save Solar Industry
If the Legislature balks at taking action to avert a crisis in the solar sector, thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in investment could be imperiled
Who Doesn't Like Free Tuition at 2-Year Colleges? Try 4-Year State Schools
The governor’s proposed budget includes $50 million to offset tuition at community colleges. Four-year schools are wondering when they’ll get their piece of the pie
Murphy Rolls Out Spending Priorities for $242M Increase in Budget for NJ Transit
Governor says commuters can expect better service, upgraded facilities, more staff — and no immediate fare hike
New Federal Push to Protect Health Insurance Market
Pallone and other Democrats pursuing multiple options to reverse ACA repeal and replace
Feds Convening Summit on Water Contamination in NJ, Other States
Gathering will address risks posed by manmade chemicals widely used in nonstick cookware and other household products
New Jersey's Energy Future: Modernizing Energy Infrastructure
New Jersey's energy infrastructure is old and susceptible to extreme weather. Given these limitations, how can the state move ahead?
State Crafts New Strategies for Greystone, Other Psychiatric Hospitals
Former board members, advocates offer dire warnings to their replacements
Offshore Wind: Is the Long Wait over for New Jersey?
The 24-megawatt Fishermen’s Energy pilot could pick up a tailwind thanks to governor’s ambitious clean-energy agenda
NJ’s Tech Future Begins with New Brunswick ‘Hub’ — Murphy
Governor’s plan for economic development begins with creation of a center for innovation and technology to help small businesses and startups
Op-Ed: Stormwater Utilities — An Idea Whose Time Has Come?
Stormwater systems must be properly maintained if they are to protect groundwater from pollution and people from flooding
Assembly Committee Advances Equal Pay Legislation
Bill would make it illegal for employers to pay women — including pregnant women — less for doing the same job as men
Move to Help Union Officials Gain Easier Access to Public Workers in NJ
Labor interests happy that measure advances as municipal officials express concern about cost to taxpayers
Giving State’s Vo-Techs the Space — and Seats — to Accommodate More Students
Proposed bond issue would help vocational-technical schools deliver what New Jersey manufacturers need most, skilled workers that will help them flourish
The List: For These 10 Districts, More School Aid Still Means Much Less
Gov. Murphy wants to boost school aid to most districts, but many would still get significantly less than they would if fully funded under state formula
Mapping Out Requirements for Tomorrow’s Energy Infrastructure
Fundamental changes to ways electricity and gas will be delivered are in the offing, according to experts at NJ Spotlight roundtable
Annual County Health Rankings Highlight Racial Disparities
Among the report’s more unsettling findings: Black babies were more than 40 percent more likely to die prematurely than their white counterparts
Camden SMART Initiative Revitalizes, Extends City’s Open Spaces
Pristine new open spaces and reclaimed, refurbished neighborhood park system will help boost the health of city residents
Op-Ed: Charitable Deduction Would Help New Jersey Nonprofits
We have a long and rich history of philanthropic giving, but new data shows New Jersey falling to last place among wealthy states for giving
Murphy School Aid Plan Keeps Promises, Raises Questions
The numbers aren’t set in stone, but districts have gotten a first look at state aid to public schools
NJ Solar Shows Slow Growth, Pace Slackens Nationally as Well
Lawmakers, administration, and industry work to forge new financing mechanism that will be less of a burden on ratepayers
Murphy’s Healthcare Budget: Beyond the Headlines
Where does the governor plan on putting the state’s money, and where does he plan on cutting back?
Appellate Court Rules Disgraced NJ Senator Will Be Stripped of Full Pension
Court upholds earlier pension board decision denying former Sen. Wayne Bryant all of his $81,000 pension payout
Public Gets Say on Budget, but What Matters Most Is Murphy-Sweeney Dialogue
Although Democrats control both the executive and legislative branches of NJ government, fate of first Murphy
spending plan remains uncertain
Op-Ed: A Call to Restore the Courts’ Role in Addressing Sexual Misconduct
Essentially, mandatory arbitration agreements strip plaintiffs of their right to a trial by jury
Judge Reduces Power of Newark Police Review Board
Disappointed Mayor Ras Baraka vows to appeal ‘setback to criminal justice reform’
Thousands of Students from Hundreds of NJ Schools Protest Gun Violence
Using social-media savvy, young activists get the message out to peers, press, and politicians. And it won’t end here, they pledge
Murphy Diverts $136M in Clean-Energy Funds to Help Balance Budget
Raiding Clean Energy Fund is nothing new, Christie and Democratic Legislature regularly did it in preceding administration
Day After Budget Address, Murphy Takes Spending Plan on the Road
Democratic governor wants to get message across, his big budget means big gains for pension system, education, NJ Transit, and New Jerseyans — who will be getting more for their money
Pre-K Murphy’s Way: Educators Sound off on Governor’s Spending Plan
At conference to mark 20th anniversary of Abbott v. Burke, talk turns to governor’s education budget and pledge to extend preschool statewide in four years
Murphy Backs Specific Fix for Problem in Out-of-Network Health Insurance Billing
Governor gives surprise endorsement of two lawmakers’ effort to close major loophole, says it could save state tens of millions of dollars
Opinion: The First Murphy Budget — a Dicey Proposal
A former budget director casts a skeptical eye on the governor’s proposed $37.4 billion budget, and finds much to be concerned about
Governor Makes Pitch for His Spending Blueprint
It’s all about ‘digging out’ of previous administration’s eight-year ‘gutting’ of government services, Murphy says
Murphy’s Proposed Budget, a Record $37.4B — and He Has Plans for All of It
Governor’s budget message holds few surprise — except, perhaps, the total — but draws a cool response from his own party
Nuclear Subsidy Bill Re-Engineered as Three Separate Measures
Nuclear power, clean energy, and offshore wind will each get dedicated bill, but all three will move together through the Legislature
No Let-Up on Marijuana for Governor Who Projects Millions in Revenues, Taxes
Murphy wants full legalization in New Jersey by January 2019 as lawmakers are still deep in the weeds over what that could entail
Murphy’s Education Budget: Some Pledges Redeemed, Some Deferred
Murphy’s call for a $283 million increase in aid to public schools — to more than $9.6 billion — is the biggest bump in almost a decade
Opinion: After the Budget, Who Blinks First — Murphy or Sweeney?
Governor might be asking Legislature to enact too many tax increases. Meanwhile, where’s his path to compromise with Senate President?
Putting an End to Sick-Pay Accrual by Longtime Public Workers
In effort to prevent county, municipal, and school workers from banking sick pay and cashing in at retirement, two Democratic senators propose an across-the-board cap of $15,000
In Healthcare, Murphy’s Budget Choices Emphasize Medicaid, Opioid Addiction
Few details available on allocation of some money, and confusion about whether certain funding is really new
Crunching the Numbers
John Reitmeyer, NJ Spotlight’s budget and public finance writer, discusses the implications of Gov. Phil Murphy’s first budget on NJTV
The Big Things to Watch for in Murphy’s Inaugural Budget
New Jersey gets its first look at how governor plans to translate campaign promises into policies and spending priorities, as he issues his first state budget today
NJ Police Chiefs Oppose Legal Marijuana — No Good Test for It, Danger to Drivers
Marijuana use by drivers a major cause for concern along with lack of easy, reliable test to measure impairment
Senate Panel Advances Bills to Boost Cash Payments to Poor Families
Measures vetoed under Christie may have new life in Murphy administration
Can New Jersey Make Net Neutrality the Law for the Garden State?
In their quest to maintain net neutrality, are some New Jersey lawmakers possibly stepping into unconstitutional territory?
Murphy Administration Settles MTBE Pollution Cases for $200 Million
Natural-resources damage suit involves three oil companies who contaminated groundwater with potentially carcinogenic gasoline additive
Opinion: Nuclear Subsidy Bill Could Spell End of Solar Sector
Left unchanged, the bill that's slated to come before the Legislature will wipe out the mechanism used to finance solar systems, without putting anything in its place
NJ Court Determines How Many Affordable-Housing Units Needed by 2025
Ruling sets statewide housing quota for new affordable units at close to 155,000, according to Mercer County Superior Court Assignment Judge Mary Jacobson
Want to Know Why Millennials Are Ditching New Jersey? Ask Them
'Millennial town hall' gives generation 'M' a chance to sound off on what they like about New Jersey (proximity to NYC, recreation) and what they don't (costly housing, few mass-transit options)
Opinion: Trenton's Circular Firing Squad
Democratic leaders compete to harm New Jersey's tax competitiveness
Community Solar Shares the Sun, Savings on Electric Bills
Technology brings solar's benefits to renters, people in multifamily dwellings, low- and middle-income residents priced out of market, and others
Murphy Administration Deploys More Help to Hurricane-Hit Islands
State-of-the-art Mobile Surgery Emergency Department will supplement medical services in St. Croix
Senate Approves Former Obama Officials to Lead Health, Human Services
Governor's cabinet picks say they plan to expand access to affordable healthcare while lawmakers question them on marijuana, surprise medical bills
Judge Blocks JCP&L High-Voltage Line, Rebukes Utility on Project Plan
JCP&L setback followed by governor's criticism calling for investigation into how New Jersey utilities handled outages during both nor'easters
Ten Years On, New Jersey Employment Finally Back to Pre-Recession Level
Good economic news for Gov. Murphy as he prepares to present his first state budget next Tuesday
Over the Top: Special-Interest Lobbyists Spend $90.8M in 2017
Heading up the parade: Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield and Public Service Enterprise Group each forked over more than $2M apiece
Visibly Angry Murphy Calls for Investigation into Power Outages
JCP&L squarely in the crosshairs, cited for lack of preparedness and sluggish response times
Kean Jr. Pushes for NJ Tax Write-Off for Charitable Contributions
Nonprofits, concerned that recent GOP changes to federal tax code could hit charitable giving in New Jersey, support Republican lawmaker’s initiative
NJ Could Be Second State to Enact Individual Mandate
Massachusetts got there first, but two proposed bills could replace ACA's federal mandate and offset price of pricey procedures
Putting the Brakes on Dirt Bikes and All-Terrain Vehicles
A new law would help keep ATVs off city streets and let cops impound those used to commit crimes ranging from gun running to dealing drugs
The List: Thank You for Your Service — Property-Tax Relief for Disabled Vets
Slightly more than 10,000 households qualified for the tax break last year. Here's a list of the top 10 communities with the largest number of disabled-veteran exemptions
Op-Ed: Fear and Learning in America
Children need to feel emotionally, intellectually, spiritually, and physically safe in order to realize their full potential
Sweeney Wants to Find Funds for Education by Bumping up Corporate Tax Rate
Senate president proposes raising CBT on companies that earn more than $1M to 12 percent, up from 9 percent. Governor wants to see more details before commenting
Murphy Administration Makes First Move to Part Ways with PARCC
Education commissioner issues state of PARCC memo, announces advisory group and listening tour
State Still Not Sold on Smart Metering for Utility Customers
Lawmakers table smart-meter bill until results in for modest deployment program at Rockland Electric
Alternative Approaches to Hepatitis C Screening Stall in Legislature
Both bills have same goal — to diagnose baby boomers with hep-c — but differ on which providers would be involved
Governor Urged to Enact Big Agenda on Justice, Civil Rights — and to Fight Trump
Task force recommends closing youth prisons in NJ, protecting immigrants, toughening gun laws, fighting ‘harmful’ federal policies
Mroz to Step Down at BPU, Frees Murphy to Slot in Democrat at Agency
Former president of state Board of Public Utilities was strong advocate for Gov. Christie's energy policies
Op-Ed: If Congress Cuts Energy Programs, We’ll Be Stuck with the (Higher) Bill
Federal investment in energy efficiency are good for consumers, businesses, and the environment. Cutting that investment would not be smart
IRS-Proof? NJ Lawmakers’ Strategy to Preserve Small Business Tax Write-Off
Bipartisan legislators work to save thousands of small-business owners in New Jersey from being hit hard by GOP tax changes
Plugging Away at Climate Change with Electric Vehicles, Chargers
Most of New Jersey's greenhouse-gas emissions come from the transportation sector, but getting more EVs on the road means deploying more charging stations
Controversial Insurance Bill Advances Even as Doctors Give Dire Warnings
Legislation to address ‘surprise’ out-of-network medical bills progresses in Assembly, hits snag in Senate as physicians crank up opposition
No Consensus on Cannabis Emerges from Marathon Assembly Hearing
Amid the clamor of voices pro and con, what comes clear is the fact that there are many valid arguments and no easy answers
Opening Another Front in NJ's War Against Hunger and Homelessness
A trio of bills intended to reverse the inaction of the Christie years extends benefits to state's most vulnerable citizens when they're in crisis
State to Reconsider Marijuana Classification as Dangerous Drug
Reclassification will not ensure legalization or decriminalization
PSEG, Exelon Suspend Funding for Capital Projects at Salem Nuclear
SEC filing says money will be restored when controversial nuclear-subsidy bill - which could cost utility customers $300M a year - is ratified
Opinion: NJ's High School Diplomas - Worth the Paper They're Printed On?
As state high-school graduation rates continue to climb, we need to assess if we're doing our grads a grave disservice
Upping Rate of Return on Pension Investments Buys Murphy Breathing Room
A 0.5 percent boost will ease state pension payments and give new governor more cash in his first budget to spend on priorities like education and mass transit
DACA Deadline Today, but 'Dreamers' Already Here Can Stay - for Now
Six rallies planned statewide to call for pathway to permanency for undocumented Dreamers
Electric Vehicles Benefit More than Just Their Owners
Recharging electric vehicles at off-peak hours could mean lower rates for all utility customers
Profiling Local Property Taxes and Property-Tax Relief Across Garden State
Increased transparency at the Department of Community Affairs makes it possible to track property taxes for New Jersey municipalities - and see where and by how much the state tried to offset them
Plan Would Make Medicaid 'Encounter' Data More Widely Available
'De-identified' healthcare data makes it possible to track treatment, providers, fees without identifying personal details
Op-Ed: Newark Schools - Handing Back the Keys Is a Start
What the residents of Newark and the people New Jersey need is a full and independent audit of the deals, contracts, and other agreements made while the district was under state control
Horizon to Invest Partial Tax Windfall to Benefit Policyholders
State's largest insurer could invest $275 million from federal tax refund to a variety of initiatives, rebates, and longer-term projects
One Small Step for BPU, One Small Step for Offshore Wind in NJ
State agency moves ahead cautiously, planning to meet less than one-third of the Murphy administration's offshore wind target
Poll: Lock Them Up and Throw Away Their Right to Vote?
Convicted felons in New Jersey can't vote, even if they're on parole or probation. Advocates say this is too harsh and punishes African-Americans disproportionately. What do you think?
Opinion: Neocolonial Economics Along the Delaware, or …
… how the New Jersey-Pennsylvania reciprocal tax agreement keeps South Jersey down
Potential Puerto Rican Foreclosures Remain Concern for Pension System
Gov. Murphy creates special commission to address issues. Sen. Ruiz wants to prevent pension system from investing in any company that could profit from foreclosures on the island
NJ Teens Protest Gun Violence: Teachable Moment or Disciplinary Problem?
New Jersey high school students plan to show solidarity with national ‘March for Our Lives,” leaving parents and educators uncertain about best response
Atlantic City Electric Bets on Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
ACE files with BPU, looking to determine barriers to deployment of electric vehicles, particularly shortage of charging stations
Governor Sets Up Special Team of Number Crunchers to Help Steer NJ Economy
Saying he doesn’t have ‘all the answers,’ Murphy orders up data-driven council to work on job creation and retention among other key issues in Garden State
Rutgers Med First in U.S. to Offer Certified Medication-Assisted Treatment
First class trained in MATs will graduate next spring, filling a growing need in New Jersey for doctors to address opioid epidemic
The List: Top 10 School Districts Where English Is Not the Primary Language
Nearly a quarter of New Jersey’s public school students live in homes where the main language used is not English. Here are the top 10 districts
In Wake of Parkland Tragedy, Listen to What Our Students Are Telling Us
It has been both moving and troubling to see high school students, now survivors of another horrific school shooting, plead with their elected officials for relief
New Jersey's Energy Future: Renewable Energy
At this NJ Spotlight Roundtable, experts, advocates, and officials tackled the two essential questions facing the state's renewable-energy future — timeframe and cost
Should Felons Be Stripped of Their Right to Vote?
Lawmakers and activists are working to repeal a 174-year-old law that prevents those convicted of serious crimes from voting — even if they're on probation or parole
Nuclear Subsidy Bill Stalls in Senate, Enviros Say Delay is Needed
It's not clear what's next for contentious bill, but there's been talk about reverting to original, which would only award $300 million annual subsidy to PSEG
Moves to Improve Gender Equality, Birth to Death, in New Jersey
Lawmakers want changes to birth and death certificates for transgender New Jerseyans, also want task force
Flu Epidemic Gives Urgency to Statewide Sick-Leave Law
State and local officials push for paid sick time as a public-health issue in New Jersey, business leaders want a say because of ‘economic impacts’
Opinion: The NRA — Vulnerable After Parkland Killings?
Several large corporations have severed business ties with the National Rifle Association, while Gov. Murphy and counterparts in other states have created a coalition to share gun-crime data
South Jersey Dems Move to Protect Bistate Tax Deal with Pennsylvania
A reciprocal tax agreement between the two states could be canceled by the governor, but lawmakers want to give Legislature final say on whether deal can be killed
State Calls for Dozens of New Inpatient Treatment Beds
Facilities badly needed for patients battling dual demons - substance abuse and mental illness
Moving NJ to a Clean-Energy Economy: at What Speed, at What Price?
Participants at NJ Spotlight roundtable raise concerns and assess advantages of renewable energy
Can Advocates Sell a $15/Hour Minimum Wage to New Jersey?
Backers say the benefits of higher minimum wage would benefit both workers and small businesses
In Sixth Iteration, Nuclear Subsidy Bill Clears Committee
One item in legislation remains unchanged from first draft - up to $300 million annual subsidy to keep PSEG's nuclear plants powered up
New Jersey Attorney General Outlines New Opioid Programs
Strategy includes multidisciplinary opioid-response teams that can deal with drug-related incidents 24/7
Interactive Map: Highlighting the Results of New Jersey's AP Tests
More June graduates took and passed their AP exams than in prior years, but poorer districts continue to lag in the number of test-takers
Murphy Joins Fellow Democratic Governors to Help Stem Gun Violence
New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island agree to share intelligence, databases concerning gun issues
Startups, Incubators, Accelerators: Thinking Big About Small Business
New Jersey works to enhance business climate for fledgling companies by delivering support and services to help them thrive
Op-Ed: Gateway - a Catalyst for Economic Growth
We need to double down our efforts to make Gateway a reality before an economic disaster strikes our region
Group Argues for Applying Sales Tax to Far More Services in New Jersey
Case being made that revenues would grow, sales-tax structure would be fairer, and online retail sales should also be targeted for greater tax take
Energy Storage Remains Key Component of Clean-Energy Agenda
Controversial nuclear subsidy bill also calls for 600 megawatts of energy storage by 2021, 2,000 megawatts by 2030
Profile: Impeccable Credentials for Working with Undocumented
Johanna Calle, director of the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, was undocumented for 11 years
Poll: Can We Prevent a Parkland Tragedy in New Jersey?
Is there anything that can be done to protect students and teachers from becoming targets of an active shooter?
Blackouts, Higher Costs a Proven Risk Without New Natural-Gas Pipelines
We can't allow political rhetoric intended to block safe, underground natural-gas infrastructure drive policy and decision making
First for Murphy: Expands Women’s Healthcare Access, Funds Family Planning
Governor restores funding that Christie routinely denied for services, promises to ‘fully fund’ women’s healthcare in fiscal 2019
ICE Gets Cold Shoulder From Rutgers, Backs Out of Career Fair
University makes it clear that it supports undocumented students, and provides access to immigration lawyers
Op-Ed: Working Together for Camden's Kids
We're seeing results: Dropout rates are declining, test scores are up, and people are feeling better about the quality of education offered in Camden schools than ever before
Sweeney Forges Ahead with State Tax Policy Review, No Input from Murphy Team
Senate President sets up working group to examine NJ tax and fiscal policies in wake of federal changes but doesn’t include anyone from new administration to the review body
NJ to Review School Safety as Parents Demand More after Florida Slaughter
Governor announces state and law enforcement will examine whether enough is being done in schools to protect children from possibility of gun violence
Lawmakers Drill Down on Policies to Improve Maternal, Child Health
Murphy slated to sign off today on bill restoring funding to family planning services, but many other measures are under consideration
Gov. Murphy Names Three Women to Cabinet, Attaining First Female Majority
Governor says his three nominations help fulfill campaign promise of building the most diverse administration in state history
New Jersey, Delaware Ease Advisories on Certain Fish
Action indicates drop in contamination, but some shellfish and other fish should be avoided, especially by women of childbearing age
Opinion: How Much Water Do We Waste — And Who Are 'We'?
New Jersey wastes more water than we should but perhaps less than we feared
Lawmakers Try Yet Another Version of Contentious Nuclear Subsidy Bill
Intended to prop up PSEG nuclear plants, measure has gone through drastic revisions without gaining traction with legislators
NJ Officials Scramble to Save Trans-Hudson Rail Tunnel After Trump Snub on Funding
Big blow to prospect of federal cash for Gateway infrastructure project leads some lawmakers to consider fighting for it in Congress, others to work on Plan B
AG's Motion Anticipates Possible Legal Challenge over PennEast Pipeline
Attorney general argues FERC certificate flawed because it allows PennEast to seek eminent domain without knowing environmental impact over much of route
New Medical School to Open in New Jersey This Summer
Promising a ‘new approach,’ the Seton Hall-Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine will eventually cater to 500 students
Op-Ed: Murphy, Lawmakers Can Make NJ a Solar State for All, Regardless of Income
Community solar projects would enable renters and others with limited income and space to enjoy the same economic benefits of solar as traditional rooftop consumers
As Redlining Persists, Camden Area Among Hot Spots in U.S. for Mortgage Denials
Investigation finds people continue to be denied loans based on factors such as race, despite legislation supposed to ban the practice
State Democrats Pursue Individual Mandate to Help NJ Insurance Market
Over some Republican objections, Democratic lawmakers promote workaround for Trump administration’s repeal of key Obamacare regulation
More Train Cars Now, First Step to Ease Overcrowding on NJ Transit
Governor announces immediate move to relieve some of the ‘greatest headaches for commuters,’ underlines pledge to make agency one of his administration's priorities
New Incentive for NJ Homeowners, Businesses to Install Solar Panels
Strong move to encourage greater use of ‘net metering’ as advocates push for state to overhaul energy policies and critics worry about cost to ratepayers
Cautious NJ Lawmakers Propose Decriminalizing Marijuana in Small Amounts
State senators stop well short of governor’s preference to legalize the drug in New Jersey, voice concerns about social-justice implications
Effort Advances to Circumvent Trump Property-Tax Hit, but Questions Remain
NJ lawmakers push ahead with creative maneuver to stave off new federal limit on tax write-offs. Skeptics still maintain IRS won’t accept the workaround
‘Don’t Raise Our Costs. Please’ — NJ Manufacturers Make Case to Lawmakers
Manufacturing has been growing recently in the state, but industry leaders say they’re struggling with high taxes, high costs, a shortage of skilled workers, and they fear a wage hike
Fixing Garden State’s Broken Medical Examiner System
Raft of changes proposed for structure that critics have slammed as mismanaged, underfunded, overworked, and fragmented
Pipeline Conflict Heats Up: Landowners Vow to Fight PennEast on Eminent Domain
After almost 130 New Jersey landowners refuse offers of compensation for right of way on their properties, company files for eminent domain, unleashing a new storm of protest
Would a Tech Upgrade Make New Jersey Government More User-Friendly?
Advisers tell governor that state’s technology needs major overhaul and Christie’s IT initiative should be urgently reviewed
Op-Ed: What New Jersey Needs — Doulas Working for Health of Mothers, Babies
Doula care has been used widely throughout the United States but has never been fully embraced in the Garden State. Isn’t it about time?
Call for Action to Protect Children in New Jersey from Lead Poisoning
Thousands of children in Garden State have shown elevated levels of lead in their blood. Advocates say issue is urgent despite high price tag
Closing Loophole in Law Protecting Students Against Sexual Predators
Right now, teachers accused of sexual misconduct can change schools without a report about their behavior following them
After One Year, NJ Evaluates Judicial Reform Program
Report indicates pretrial population dipped by 20 percent, but advocates call for more data on race of defendants detained, released, and released with conditions
Can Stormwater Utilities Help NJ Reduce Runoff Pollution?
Lawmakers revive bill looking at new ways of dealing with old problem, stormwater runoff fouling waterways and causing major flooding
Physical Therapists Want to Give Their Patients the Dry Needle — Again
Legislation would allow PTs to expand their practice to include pain-relief technique currently limited chiefly to acupuncturists
Residents Question Murphy on Live TV: Main Issues Are Taxes, Immigration
New governor takes questions from New Jerseyans who are preoccupied with high taxes and his immigration policies
Former Pharmaceutical CEO Sets Sights on Senate Seat Held by Menendez
Bob Hugin reportedly tells GOP leaders he’s willing to spend $20 million of his own money on campaign against weakened Democrat
When a Deputy Mayor Compares Undocumented Immigrants to Raccoons
Racist quote on Facebook leads to town official's resignation
Op-Ed: New Jersey Needs to Counter Republican Tax Plan with Bold Action
With new federal tax cuts favoring the wealthiest — and giving peanuts to working people in NJ — it’s time to make tax changes of our own
No Easy Answers to NJ’s Racial Disparities in Infant, Maternal Health
Poverty, other social factors pinpointed as reasons why childbirth can be dangerous for many women and babies in New Jersey
Appeals Court Upholds Outstanding $225M Fine Against ExxonMobil
Plaintiffs argue amount too small but are relieved constitutional amendment ensures environmental fines go to restoring natural resources
Explainer: Why Undocumented Immigrants in NJ Pay Taxes — a Lot of Taxes
According to recent estimates, New Jersey’s undocumented community paid $587 million in state and local taxes in 2014
Opinion: Sweeney Reminds New Governor, NJEA Who's Really in Charge
The president of the senate emerges unscathed from a blitz of negative ads ordered up by the teachers union, makes it clear that he's as much a policymaker as Murphy
Lawmakers Want $166M for Rail, Roads, Bridges on Top of $2B Already Budgeted
Gas-tax increase in 2016 was supposed to solve underfunding of infrastructure projects in New Jersey but legislators want supplemental funding — again
Poor Students Still Not Getting Breakfast in Many NJ Schools
Report indicates that New Jersey remains 19th in country for participation in school breakfast program, essentially the position it held in previous school year
Making the Public Welcome on New Jersey's Beaches and Waterfronts
Bill clears committee incorporating public trust doctrine, common-law principle ensuring access to natural resources
Opinion: Two Wrongs Won't Make It Right
Using charities to restore SALT deductions is a gimmick that won't and shouldn't work
State Lawmaker Calls for Nation's First Opioid Warning Labels
Warnings would highlight the significant potential for addiction and overdose associated with these drugs
Can ESG Help Make NJ's Pension-Fund Investments More Ethical?
Some states are using ESG factors - environmental, social, and governance - to evaluate investments in companies. Will New Jersey follow suit?
Democrats Call for NJ to Reopen Hagedorn Psychiatric Hospital
Safe haven needed for seniors with severe mental illness now living in overcrowded, potentially dangerous facilities
Interactive Map: Tracking the Spread of Flu Across New Jersey
This year’s outbreak could match or even exceed the severity of the H1N1 pandemic of 2009
Push to Give Towns More Power to Entice Developers with Special Bonds
Some Republicans concerned about consequences for towns if they take on new debt obligations in the name of redevelopment
Look for Lower Electricity Bills This Summer, Thanks to Cheap Natural Gas
Consumers should catch a break on their bills, albeit a small one, based on results of BPU's annual power auction
Op-Ed: Support Homegrown Solar Energy This Session
Thousands of energy jobs in New Jersey hang in the balance
PennEast Files for Eminent Domain, Seeks Marshals to Guard Pipeline Workers
Company claims it has been trying to avoid legal action but has taken step after failing to agree on compensation with unspecified number of landowners
Will Nuclear Subsidy Bill Kill Solar Sector?
Latest version of controversial bill dramatically changes way state promotes and incents solar, with potentially lethal results
Why Hard Times at NJ’s ‘Insect Factory’ Could Be Bad News for Garden State
The Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Rearing Laboratory breeds ‘good’ bugs to fight pests and reduce pesticide use, but overdue repairs are hampering its mission
Poll: What’s Keeping the New Administration from Gaining Traction?
Is it really just Murphy and Sweeney trying to establish the lines of power, or is there more to it?
Murphy Urged to Undo One Christie Health Reform, Aggressively Monitor Others
Human services experts propose reforms including tax credit for low-income parents and better pay for front-line workers
NJ's Status as 'Welcoming' State Could Cost It $4 Million in Fed Funding
New Jersey joins multistate lawsuit fighting federal decision to make law enforcement funding contingent on immigration enforcement
Treasury Works to Revamp Tobacco Bonds, Ease Strain if Budget Falls Short
Creative refinancing could improve state's bottom line by $250 million amid concerns former Gov. Chris Christie’s last budget won't meet revenue projections
Op-Ed: Private Landowners, Local Farmers Can Protect Delaware River
New Jersey Audubon and National Fish & Wildlife Foundation partner to build buffers on agricultural properties
Engineer’s Sleep Apnea, NJ Transit’s Lax Screening Led to Hoboken Crash — NTSB
Safety board recommends key upgrades and Sen. Booker wants to roll back Trump administration’s reversal of federal sleep apnea regulations for train drivers
Calls for State Probe into Radium in Drinking Water
Environmentalists say looser EPA limit may not protect public health after report finds hundreds of NJ water systems contain radioactive element at levels above that recommended by California
Tension in Trenton: Do Murphy and Sweeney Have Issues to Resolve?
For a Democratic governor with a Democratic Legislature, Murphy’s first few weeks at the helm have not been smooth sailing
Healthcare Transition Team Calls for Better Integration, Best Practices
Focus on reducing racial disparities in care reflects larger campaign goals
Can Murphy Live Up to His Promises About Higher Education?
The new governor’s intentions are good, but he has yet to offer much in the way of specifics concerning his strategy
Faith Leaders Ramp Up Anti-Lance Protests, Six Arrested for ‘Defiant Trespass’
Congressman’s alignment with Trump administration on immigration, other issues ignites dissenters — and challengers for the seat he has held for nine years
New Jersey's Indonesian Christians Avoid Deportation — For Now
Indonesian immigrant families are back home, after spending time in sanctuary at their church
Op-Ed: Gov. Murphy Ignores Downside of Legalized Pot
The governor's campaign promises notwithstanding, hard evidence shows that decriminalization rather than legalization is the smart policy
AG Rejects PennEast Offers for Easements on Protected Lands
Pipeline company says it will begin eminent domain actions if landowners hold out after deadline
Police, Firefighters Advance Toward More Control over Own Retirement Funds
Union-friendly Murphy expected to give positive reception to legislation that his predecessor Christie rejected last year
Murphy Makes Net Neutrality the Order of the Day
In his ninth executive order to date, governor ensures all internet traffic will be treated equally by ISPs and providers that want do business with the state
New Jersey Lawmakers Push Pay Raise for High-Ranking State Officials, Judges
Strained state finances notwithstanding, Senate President Sweeney says it’s not “a whole lot of money”
As NJ Legislators Try to Fix Out-of-Network Surprise Charges, Doctors Not Happy
Lawmakers try to protect patients from unexpected healthcare charges but the partial fix they propose is opposed by physicians
Still a Work in Progress, Nuclear Subsidy Bill Held in Committee
As proposed legislation goes through successive iterations, it seems to alienate more potential backers and beneficiaries
Opinion: Beyond the SALT Distraction …
… New Jersey must also respond to federal business tax changes
'Augmented' Nuclear Subsidy Bill Could Cost $4B over 15 Years
Legislation includes money for solar and energy efficiency — and boosting carbon-free electricity — at 'huge cost,' says rate counsel
State Lawmakers Call for 30 Pages of Reforms at New Jersey Transit
Extensive recommendations include more commuters on agency's board of directors, targeted focus groups for fare hikes, closer state oversight
Why Do NJ Beekeepers Feel They've Been Stung by State DOA?
Proposed regulations, they claim, would eliminate urban beekeeping and severely restrict the practice in most suburbs
Op-Ed: Don't Be Too Quick to Gloat over Saying Bye-Bye to NJ GOP
The seniority of the state's congressional delegation is about to take a huge hit, and that's not something New Jersey can afford to lose
Alarm Over NJ Pension System’s Ties to Foreclosures in Puerto Rico
Members of state investment council make clear they would not be comfortable if pension fund profited from the hardships of Puerto Ricans
Putting Women’s Health and Family Planning Back in the Black
Legislation restoring the $7.45M Christie cut from women’s health centers looks likely to pass, also a bill giving low-cost family planning services to more poor women
Murphy Joins Neighboring Governors in United Front against Fracking
Goal is to prohibit hydraulic fracturing in Delaware River Basin, water supply to more than 15 million people in four states
Profile: Newark Interim Superintendent Could Be in for the Long Haul
Robert Gregory rises through the school ranks as Newark regains local control
Op-Ed: Resurrecting New Jersey’s Economy
Meaningful economic revival must prioritize New Jersey’s urban communities, or the state’s economy, as a whole, will continue falter
Podcast: Getting to the Root of Food Insecurity in Newark
A discussion of the complex reasons why so many people have limited or no access to healthy food, moderated by NJ Spotlight healthcare reporter Lilo H. Stainton
Inherit the Wind: Murphy's Executive Order Could Revive Energy Sector
Governor tells BPU to develop mechanism for ratepayers to subsidize offshore wind, a task it was originally assigned seven years ago
State Pushes Flu Shots in Effort to Tamp Down Danger in Severe Flu Season
Four-year-old girl has died and almost 5,000 residents have been diagnosed
Former NJ Gov. Whitman to Chair National Task Force to Fix U.S. Democracy
Task force to battle the erosion of American values in politics and government, and undo the tone of anger and hate of current administration
Bombshell: Department of Justice Drops Corruption Case Against Menendez
Senator can now run for re-election without shadow of a second criminal trial hanging over him
Could Trump Tax Reform Mean Lower Bills for NJ Ratepayers?
New federal law cuts utility tax rates to 21 percent, but money could go to offsetting ratepayers subsidies on solar and wind initiatives
Murphy Team’s Budget Wish List Could Get Cool Reception in Legislature
There are already signs that some proposals from governor’s advisory committee will meet resistance in the State House
Opinion: NJ's Water Needs Could Decrease, Despite 10.4M Residents by 2040
Taking a broad array of variables into account, and working with the best-case scenario, the state's population could increase while demand for water could lessen
After 22 Years, Newark Enters New Era of Local Governance
As city reclaims control of its schools, leaders want to get it right
NJ Congresswoman Reacts to State of Union, Says ‘Robust Infrastructure Bill’ Needed
U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman talks about infrastructure and immigration
Murphy’s Pick to Fix NJ Transit Is Infrastructure Expert, Veteran Commuter
Kevin Corbett, who has a lot of experience in big subway projects but none in running a mass-transit agency, says he won’t accept status quo at NJT
New Jersey Considers Statewide Menthol Ban
Menthol cigarettes, thought to be more dangerous and addictive than conventional counterparts, chief target of action
State Takes First, Tentative Steps Toward Energy Efficiency Standard
Revamped nuclear subsidy bill includes mandate for utilities to curb amount of energy customers use
Housing Transition Team Advises Murphy: First, Acknowledge the Crisis
Report lays out six priorities to increase housing stock and end foreclosures, does not call for COAH to be resurrected
Murphy Continues Dismantling Christie Environmental Legacy
Governor and attorney general announce New Jersey will withdraw from lawsuit opposing Obama Clean Power Plan
Op-Ed: Protect Chronically Ill Patients Who Need Charity Services
A new federal policy allows insurance companies to refuse coverage to patients who benefit from certain assistance programs. It’s vital that our legislators support an effort in Congress to blunt the rule
Advocates, Interest Groups Edge Toward Agreement on Out-of-Network Legislation
Stakeholders say ‘two-pronged’ approach, that increases transparency and puts a cap on underlying costs, is way to go
Gov. Murphy Signs Executive Order for NJ to Rejoin RGGI
Governor instructs DEP to allocate funds received from multistate initiative to environmental-justice communities as recommended by transition team
Frelinghuysen Bows Out, Red and Blue Contenders Line Up to Make Bid for 11th
With his decision to step aside, New Jersey loses what is arguably its most important member of the House, chair of powerful Appropriations Committee
New Lease on Life for Urban Enterprise Zones, but Is Murphy Onboard?
Legislation hopes to maintain UEZ benefits, like 50 percent sales-tax break, in dozens of communities where zones are scheduled to expire
Murphy’s Team Wants to Put the Garden Back in Garden State
Governor’s advisory committee wants more state support for agri-tourism, a revived Jersey Fresh program, and to get more people involved in farming
Op-Ed: Dispensary Density is Key to Getting Marijuana Legalization Right
New Jersey lawmakers can learn from other states and establish smart regulations as they consider governor’s promise to legalize cannabis within his first 100 days
Environmental Justice Should Be Core Principle of Murphy Administration
Transition team urges administration to address pollution and contamination as they affect poor urban communities, particularly communities of color
Education Transition Report Delivers Some Details and Early Directions
Report touches on most of Murphy's education promises, but in some cases seems to step away from several high-profile goals
NJ Signs on as Part of Multistate Coalition to Battle GOP Tax-Code Revision
Murphy joins fellow Democratic governors from New York and Connecticut to officially challenge Trump tax code in federal court
Op-Ed: There's an Affordable Path to Clean Energy for New Jersey
A cleaner, healthier, stronger economic future is a lot closer than supporters of fossil fuels would like us to believe
Nurses Unions Ramp Up Staffing-Level Campaign
Nurse-to-patient staffing ratios should ease the burden on these professionals but some insist it's not the number, it's the workload
Revised Nuclear Subsidy Bill Appears Back on Legislative Track
Revamped legislation includes some modest clean-energy programs, but locks Division of Rate Counsel out of decision if subsidy is needed
Time to Scrap the Superintendent Salary Cap?
Senate bill could be an early step to dismantle Christie's education legacy
We've Got Answers to Your Questions for Our Legislators …
… And a chance to ask your questions about New Jersey's water quality
Business Task Force Hopes to Transform New Jersey into Millennial Magnet
The Garden State has the highest millennial outmigration in the country, but attention to education, tuition, and vocational training could go a long way to turning things around
Op-Ed: Our Schools Survived Christie — How Do We Move Forward?
What's crucial is taking steps to fundamentally alter the way Trenton fulfills its obligations to our 1.4 million public school children
Putting Murphy's Pick to Lead the EDA in Perspective
NJ Spotlight budget and public finance writer visits WHYY to assess the new governor's choice to head up the Economic Development Authority
ICE Renews Apparent Crackdown on Indonesian Christians in NJ
Federal agents arrest at least two men in morning, force another — a well-known community leader — to return to sanctuary at his church
PSEG Nuclear Subsidy Bill Gets Behind-Closed-Doors Makeover
Revamped legislation said to have more to do with clean energy while still addressing nuclear
NJ Joins Multistate Suit to Stop Trump Administration from Deporting ‘Dreamers’
Murphy also creates agency unofficially known as Office of Immigrant Protection and Defense
Murphy Wants ‘New Culture’ in Economic Development Agency, Names New CEO
Governor disdains Christie era's ‘lavish’ tax breaks, promises to grow economy with ‘multi-faceted effort to leverage everything’ NJ has to offer
Blueprint for Universal Health Insurance for NJ Kids, Including Undocumented
Promoters maintain that cost of coverage would be moderate while benefits would be significant
Lawmakers Cut Murphy Some Slack on Date of First Budget Address
New governor gets more time to compile spending plan, allows Treasurer Muoio to clear Senate confirmation process
Opinion: Federal Aid Cuts to NJ Are Not Happening, Despite Trump Rhetoric
But nasty budget bargaining is still lurking
Trump’s 30% Solar Tariff Likely to Boost Prices, Slow Growth in U.S. Market
New Jersey may do better than many states since local industry more focused on installation than manufacture
Lawmakers Want to Make It Easier to Change Gender on NJ Birth Certificates
Proposal would affect thousands of transgender residents, others in Garden State and make records system among most progressive in nation
Murphy Moves to Relax Restrictions on Buying Medical Marijuana
Governor’s sixth executive order calls for 60-day assessment of state’s current policies and prohibitions
Equal Detention Under the Law? Questions About Who Gets Held Without Bail
From county to county there can be significant differences in percentage of defendants held over pending trial
Assemblyman Seeks Fix to Expedite NJ Credit for Property-Tax Prepayments
Without a quick legislative repair, the thousands of residents who rushed to prepay their 2018 property taxes will have to wait until next year for state tax credit
Op-Ed: The Nuclear Subsidy Battle Is Not Over
New Jersey citizens and businesses can ill afford the massive wealth transfer and regulatory capitulation that PSEG's bill would impose
‘Revived’ PSEG Nuclear Subsidy Heads for Committee This Week
Company insists bill could still be critical to keeping nuclear plants up and running, despite Trump tax windfall to plant operator
Will 'Active, Angry' Voters Make GOP Congressmen Endangered Species in NJ?
Lance, Frelinghuysen could be in trouble in mid-term election as anti-Trumpism fuels renewed Democratic push in the Garden State
NJ’s Medical Examiner System Needs More Resources, Oversight
Is the ME a patchwork of protocols and disconnects straining to cope with the rising number of drug-related deaths in New Jersey?
Murphy's Latest EO Seeks to Get NJ Transit Back on Track (and on Time)
Governor wants nothing less than full-scale financial and operational audit on way to organizational overhaul
State Lawmakers Not Just Blowing Smoke About Rejoining RGGI
But they butt heads over how to divvy up funds raised by participating in initiative to curb carbon pollution from power plants
Opinion: Bad Blood — Sweeney Takes a Stake to Murphy's Agenda
What was behind Senate President's Fox News bombshell that he plans to block the millionaires tax and possibly dig into the state's entire property-tax structure?
FERC OK of PennEast Doesn't Make Pipeline a Sure Thing
Federal approval means pipeline company can gather environmental data needed for permits, but opponents vow they will continue to fight
Murphy Executive Orders Dig into Tax Incentives, Seek Surge in ACA Enrollment
The new governor is wasting no time tackling issues he raised on the campaign trail, including whether the state is realizing the biggest bang for its tax-incentive bucks
Assembly Republicans Hope to 'Rally the Reasonable' to Ensure Civil Discourse
Minority leader wants to raise questions about Murphy's liberal agenda without resorting to bullying or berating
Keeping the Focus on NJ's High Maternal-Mortality Rates
Precedent-setting Maternal Health Awareness Day seeks to educate patients, providers in reducing avoidable deaths
Unsettled: A Story from the Global Refugee Crisis
Changes in U.S. immigration policy are keeping married Congolese couple apart
Op-Ed: The More Things Change - Timeless Advice for Murphy's Spokespeople
One of the first things to pay attention to is which side of the door you're on when major decisions are made
Newark Makes it onto List of 20 Finalists for Amazon’s Second Headquarters
Online giant promises $5B investment and as many as 50,000 jobs. City and state have offered $7B in tax incentives to try to land the project
Profile: Watching NJ Teacher of the Year At Work Is Beautiful
A hearing teacher, Amy Andersen has taught hundreds of mostly hearing students to be proficient in American Sign Language
Brand Will Be Back as Director of New Jersey Rate Counsel
Most recently, Stefanie Brand played a key role in derailing PSEG's bid for a $300 million annual subsidy to keep the lights on in its nuclear plants
Bargaining CHIP: Children’s Care Is Used in Federal Budet Battle, NJ Kids OK for Now
Politicians in Washington, D.C. use extension of Children’s Health Insurance Program in budget tussle. New Jersey has enough money to pay for it for a few months
No Direction Home: NJ’s Dreamers Have Few Legal Options if DACA Dies
More than 22,000 Dreamers brought to this country as youths face a future with ‘no road to citizenship’
Op-Ed: 2018 Offers Enormous Potential for Lowering Cost of Healthcare in NJ
A roadmap for the Murphy administration to increase access to care, keep a lid on price of insurance, reform Medicaid, and put the focus on patients
On Day One Murphy Highlights $15 Minimum Wage But No Details or Timeline
Governor acknowledges his staff and those of Democratic leaders in Senate and Assembly have just begun to discuss finer points of implementing an increase in the wage
PSEG Says $2B Tax Cut Won’t Offset Need for Nuclear Subsidies
Company says some deferred taxes will be passed along to utility customers in current and coming rate cases
Murphy Carefully Defines ‘Personal Friends’ to Ensure Transparency
It’s not just about friendship, rules clarify who can give gifts to the governor and which ones he must disclose
New Effort in Camden to Help Most Vulnerable Cardiovascular Patients
Initiative will focus on underlying factors, give extra clinical and social support, and attempt to drive down healthcare costs
A Few Cold Days Should Not a Pipeline Make
Most natural gas used by residents and businesses is bought under long-term contracts unaffected by sudden jumps in spot-market prices
Chris Christie, Obamacare’s Unknown Champion
A savvy political decision brought medical insurance to more than a half million poor people in New Jersey
Op-Ed: It’s Not Too Late to Put Abbott to Work at What It Does Best
The Abbott preschool model was designed to provide young children with a strong foundation for later success in school and life, and it has worked in even the state’s most disadvantaged cities
Murphy Echoes Kennedy, Jabs Trump in Optimistic Inaugural Address
New governor wants immediate action on some of his promises amid Republican grumbles that he’s ‘still posturing, still campaigning’
Murphy Administration to Reconsider Addiction Ads Featuring Christie
Education dollars used to fuel ReachNJ campaign, Democrats discover
Gov. Murphy Plays to NJ Environmentalists from Day One
Inaugural speech touches on climate change, renewables, lead — and making Garden State a ‘green’ leader once more
Murphy Socked by Lawsuit over Christie’s Decision to End Harbor Compact
New governor must deal with predecessor’s last-minute signing of law to pull New Jersey out of Waterfront Commission
Grewal Makes History as Nation’s First Sikh-American Attorney General
State’s new top prosecutor, ‘proud son of New Jersey,’ receives unanimous support at confirmation hearing
Op-Ed: How Gov. Murphy Can Protect NJ From Obamacare Sabotage
It would be ironic if Republican sabotage ended up improving health insurance access in states with the political will to make the ACA work
DEP Won’t Rescind Highlands Septic-Tank Rule, Despite Legislative Action
Agency argues lawmakers overstepped authority when they moved to abolish controversial rule increasing number of septic tanks in region
Black Caucus Sees Murphy as Ally but Says ‘Not So Fast’ to Legalizing Marijuana
African-American legislators concerned that legalization could increase drug use and promote conflicts between police officers and minorities
Murphy Names Fiordaliso to Head BPU, Christie Pocket Vetoes Solar Bill
New BPU president has served agency for more than a decade
New Education Boss Would Take Seat in Trying Time for State’s Schools
Murphy names Asbury Park’s Lamont Repollet as commissioner of education
Among Christie’s Final Tasks: More Laws to Help in Fight Against Addiction
On his last day in office, governor signs range of healthcare legislation, including measures on his ‘legacy’ anti-drugs issue
The Last Roundup: The Last-Minute Fate of Some Key Legislation
With more than 100 bills crossing his desk in the last hours of his administration, what did Christie sign and what did he pocket veto?
NJSPCA Is History: Christie Signs Bill Shutting Down Rogue Agency
It will take more than a year to disband New Jersey Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, but to animal-rights activists and some lawmakers, it’s worth the wait
Op-Ed: The Charitable Giving Account Could Protect Charity from Trump Tax Cuts
An unintended consequence of GOP tax reform could mean that charitable donors may give less, while new donors may become more scarce
Gov. Chris Christie: The Final Interview
As the never-at-a-loss-for-words governor prepares to step down, he fields questions and puts his administration in perspective — as he sees it
Trump Tax Cut Could Mean $850 Million Windfall for PSEG
Up to $650 million could accrue to PSEG Power, which recently argued unsuccessfully that it needed a subsidy to keep its three nuclear plants afloat
Drug Users Respond to Christie’s Opioid Campaign, but Cost Raises Questions
Although it has reached millions of people and prompted many drug users to seek help, governor’s multi-million-dollar anti-addiction publicity has its skeptics
Working on Plan B If Feds Leave NJ-NY in Lurch Over Trans-Hudson Funding
Amid ominous signals from federal officials about funding a replacement for crumbling rail tunnel between New Jersey and Manhattan, local legislator says its time for contingency plans
New Legislative Session Offers Second Chance for Bypassed Bills
Lawmakers have already reintroduced a slew of clean-energy bills, expecting them to have a better reception now that Christie’s out and Murphy’s in
High Drama and Low Comedy: The Chris Christie Years
From the war on opioid addiction and implementing bail reform to Bridgegate, Beachgate, and calling a former Navy SEAL an ‘idiot,’ take a stroll down memory lane with our governor
State Embarks on Project to Restore 240 Acres of Liberty State Park
Initiative — funded by natural resources damage fund — will address contaminated fill in low-lying areas, creating in its place a ‘mosaic of ecosystems’
Op-Ed: Give New Jersey Solar the Chance to Shine Again
The Garden State’s preeminence in the solar sector is long gone. With a new governor and administration, much of its luster could be recaptured
Administration Plays Favorites, Exempts Florida from Draft Drilling Plan
NJ officials call for same status, arguing state’s $44B tourism industry is just as sensitive to spills and drilling disasters
Treasury Paid BOA $34M to Shift Lottery to State Employee Pension Fund
Administration claims money was well spent, says Lottery initiative has helped drive down borrowing costs by boosting investor confidence in recent bond issues
Tell Us What You Want to Know from Your New Legislators
With a new Legislature just starting its session — and a new governor about to be sworn in — this is an ideal time to question your Senators and Assembly members
Brutal Cold Snap Proves Need for PennEast Pipeline
Price of natural gas skyrocketed in New Jersey during recent freeze to more than 3,000 percent of that in Pennsylvania
Rutgers Scientists Identify Link Between Epilepsy, Depression
‘Physicians’ for more 2,400 years have suspected connection
Op-Ed: Insurance Policy Turns Blind Eye to Medicaid Realities
Penalizing hospitals for readmission of Medicaid patients ignores the ‘social determinants of health’ that uniquely shape these people’s lives
Christie Gives Himself High Marks in Final State of State Address
Governor touts achievements in urban renewal, property taxes, education, and more in last official address to Legislature
Keeping Tabs on the New Democratic Committee Chairs
Who earned a seat, who’s moving on — or up — and what does it portend for the coming legislative session?
Who’s Who, Who’s New, and Who’s Blue in 218th Legislative Session
The 120 Senators and Assembly members sworn into office include a significant number of freshmen legislators and a new speaker for the lower house
On His Way out, Will Christie Sign Bill Propping up Solar Sector?
If the governor puts his name to measure, it could cost utility customers nearly $1 billion over next 15 years to subsidize state’s solar industry
Murphy to Name VA Leader as Head of Health Department
Gov.-elect expected to announce Shereef Elnahal, a physician with federal experience, as DOH’s new boss
Official with Strong Union Ties Gets Nod as Murphy’s Labor Commissioner
New governor expects Robert Asaro-Angelo, who has deep roots in Democratic Party, to be ‘champion’ for working class
Op-Ed: Property Taxes Can’t Be Reduced, So Stop Making Promises, Unless …
Promises aren’t going to bring property taxes down; implementing one or more admittedly difficult reforms might do the trick, however
Lawmakers Rap DEP, Roll Back Rule on Septic Tanks in Highlands
Maneuver made possible with rarely used legislative tool allowing rules to be rescinded if found inconsistent with law
Feds Spike Administration Plan to Bail Out Coal, Nuclear Plants
FERC’s decision has ramification in New Jersey, where PSEG has been pushing for subsidies to bolster its three nuclear units
Putting the Force of Law Behind Students Trying to Pay for College
Four bills looking to ease “predatory” practices employed by some New Jersey loan providers are waiting for the governor’s signature
NJSPCA on Its Last Legs? Bill to Disband Agency Clears Legislature
Measure roars through Assembly 63 – 0, heads to governor’s desk for signature
Outgoing Governor Approves Array of Healthcare Programs
Christie puts pen to work signing measures to establish ombudsman for disabled residents, aid hearing impaired, protect breastfeeding, and more
Lawmakers Approve Massive Incentive Package to Try to Win Amazon HQ for Newark
Almost unanimous bipartisan support for multi-billion-dollar goody bag aimed at enticing Amazon to build its new corporate headquarters in Garden State
Butterflies, Booze, but not Bacteria — What NJ’s Last-Minute Laws Cover
In the final hours of this legislative session, lawmakers aided monarch butterflies as well as early-morning drinkers at the airport, but they couldn’t deliver for an important bacterium
Op-Ed: With the New Year, We Need a New Law to Legalize Marijuana
We must eliminate the unequal and unfair pattern of marijuana possession arrests, particularly the disparately higher rate of arrests of African-Americans
Workaround Could Help NJ Residents Offset Loss of SALT Deduction
Clever stratagem would make fully tax-deductible charitable contributions pay for services now funded by state and local taxes
New Jersey’s Former Governors Remember the Late Brendan Byrne
Thomas Kean, James Florio, James McGreevey — along with Byrne’s biographer, Don Linky — recall the governor and the man they knew
NJ May Sign on With U.S. Climate Alliance to Curb Carbon Pollution
Multistate initiative hopes to counterbalance Trump’s decision to yank United States out of Paris Climate Accord
Repeal and Replace Takes Its Toll: NJ ACA Enrollment Dips in 2018
Some 20,000 fewer Garden State residents signed on for insurance coverage via federal marketplace, as some healthcare advocates predicted
Opinion: Recalling Gov. Brendan Byrne’s Finest Hour
His unprecedented decision to protect the integrity of the election that put his successor in office is what has stayed with me for more than 35 years
As Nuclear Subsidy Bill Goes Down, Top Dems Ratchet Up the Rhetoric
War of words erupts between Sweeney and Prieto, extends to Gov.-elect Murphy
Brendan T. Byrne: A Life You’d Buy If You Could
A personal reminiscence of ‘The Man Who Couldn’t Be Bought’
Interactive Map: More New Jersey Seniors Are Working or Looking for Work
Older New Jerseyans are employed at higher rates than the national average and there has been a marked increase in the number of workers over the age of 75
Biopharma Industry Report Offers Ideas to Boost Lagging Sector
Pulling together existing strengths — government, academia, and industry — is key to revitalizing life sciences in Garden State
Draft Administration Plan Would Open Atlantic to Oil and Gas Drilling
Sen. Booker, conservationists, and others denounce plan as threat to New Jersey’s $44 billion tourist and fishing industries
Op-Ed: Changing the Culture of Sexual Harassment, Starting in Middle School
Students in health class need to learn about more than drugs, good habits, and sexual behaviors, they need to learn how to treat one another
PSEG Nuclear Subsidy Bill Killed in Lame-Duck Session
Almost certain revamped version of bill will be submitted in coming session, one that could fragment fragile alliance now opposed to measure
Desperate NJSPCA Urges Supporters to Call Lawmakers Using Fake Names
Legislation that would eliminate charter of NJ Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals slated to come up for vote in lame-duck session
Murphy Picks Two National Experts for Top Human Services, Child Welfare Jobs
Carole Johnson, a former policy director in Obama White House, and Christine Norbut Beyer are Garden State natives
Judge Won't Block $380M Sale of Controversial State Bonds for Building Projects
Opponents of Christie administration’s debt issuance for new government buildings are running out of options. Only a final court appeal — and a snowstorm — can obstruct bond sale now
Panel Recommends $400M Bond Issue to Shore Up NJ’s Water Infrastructure
It may only be a drop in the bucket toward solving $40B problem, but could help ease breaks and leaks plaguing outdated water system
Op-Ed: Pipelines Are Driving New Jersey Emissions and Costs Down
A responsible energy portfolio balances cost, reliability, and environmental impact. Underground pipelines like PennEast can achieve all three
2% Cap on Annual Raises for Police, Firefighters Dies as Democrats Take No Action
Lawmakers allow key Christie initiative to control property taxes to founder, special task force ends in disarray
New Jersey Bids Not-So-Fond Farewell to the Big Top
‘Nosey’s Law,’ named for a mistreated circus elephant, would ban traveling shows that use exotic animals from performing in the Garden State
Opponents Move to Block ‘Millionaire’s Marina’ at Liberty State Park
DEP seeks to establish new facility on 40 acres of south side of park to finance $40-plus million in needed bulkhead repairs
An Environmentalist’s Case for Nuclear Energy
If you believe that climate change is the most significant challenge confronting the world today, then you should also conclude that nuclear energy must remain part of our energy supply
NJ Lawmakers Press Ahead with Mental Health Service Reform
Some legislators, who initially were uneasy about process to consolidate oversight of behavioral and physical health programs, now look to build on the change
Op-Ed: Subsidizing PSEG Means Punishing Consumers
A nuclear subsidy for PSEG isn’t assistance, it’s an energy tax hike — and it’s essential that we recognize this
2018 and Counting: Drawing a Bead on Gov.-Elect Murphy’s Education Policies
In some ways, Murphy campaigned as ‘not Christie,’ but now it’s time to start delivering on his education promises and programs
Will New Year’s New Tax Cuts Hit New Jersey’s Budget and New Governor’s Plans?
NJ’s cash-starved state budget expected to take big hit as estate tax goes by the board and sales tax inches down
Lawmakers Ready to Revoke Rule Allowing More Development in Highlands
Controversial DEP regulation eases restrictions on number of septic tanks that are allowed in forested expanse supplying 6 million people with potable water
The List: NJ’s Deadliest Counties for Traffic Fatalities in Past Year
With the number of deaths tallied, 2017 comes out as the deadliest year on New Jersey’s roads for the past decade
Maternal Health Among 2018 Top Priorities for State Senate
Growing disparity between outcomes for white and black women also a concern for lawmakers
Op-Ed: Jersey Politicians, Can You Hear Us Now?
Federal tax reform makes state tax reform imperative
Can the New Governor Help Close the Racial Divide in NJ’s Schools?
It will take political will and more to address the imbalances that make New Jersey’s education system one of the most segregated in the country
For Gov.-Elect, It’s off the Campaign Bus and onto NJ’s Battered Roads
Murphy correctly identified state’s economic health as inextricably linked to its transportation infrastructure. Now it’s time to get moving
New Administration Needs to Get Its Hands Wet Solving Water Problems
Upgrading an infrastructure that in some places predates WWI will be expensive and arduous, but it must be done
Making Sure the New Administration is Savvy About Smart Growth
In its recent report, New Jersey Future argues that smart growth makes the most economic sense
Rising Healthcare Costs Among Challenges for Murphy Administration
Some experts argue that New Jersey should consider rate setting to stabilize costs and create a more sustainable system
Murphy’s Inherited Headaches: The Pension System, Ongoing Tax Cuts
It will take vision and political will to tackle some of New Jersey most pressing, most intractable problems
You Don’t Have to Be the Governor to Read These Provocative Reports
Some of the state’s leading thinkers have put together insightful assessments and analyses of the issues facing the state. Here are a few of them.
PSEG Closing in on What It Wants: Panels Approve Nuclear Subsidy Bill
At contentious meeting of joint legislative committees, opponents continue to argue that company hasn’t demonstrated nuclear units are in financial distress
Big Payment Reform to Programs for NJ's Developmentally Disabled
Some providers of services to thousands of severely disabled New Jerseyans are nervous about potential downsides of big changes in way they are paid
Making It Easier for Ex-Offenders to Make a Clean Start
Thanks to a trio of bills just enacted, expunging a criminal record can be done sooner and for a greater number of offenses, a particular boon to youthful offenders
The List: The 10 Most Overcrowded Public-School Districts in NJ
Twenty years and $8 billion later, 71 percent of New Jersey’s neediest school districts are severely overcrowded. But, where’s the money going to come from to fix them?
Gutierrez-Scaccetti Is Murphy’s Pick to Head NJDOT Amid Transportation ‘Crisis’
Former executive director of NJ Turnpike authority returns home from similar post in Florida to become fifth woman governor-elect has named to his cabinet
Opinion: New Year’s Resolution — Clean out Your Medicine Chest
Nearly one-in-three Garden State families have a member who was prescribed opioids in the past year, and many plan to keep unused portions
Murphy Murky on Plan to Subsidize PSEG Nuclear Plants
Critics line up to block bill but some feel efforts are wasted and legislation will sail through regardless
State Approves Sale of Troubled Meadowlands Hospital
Officials contend that new ownership is only way to preserve local community’s
access to acute care
Nuclear Energy Is Worth Saving
Clean, reliable power is only the beginning; nuclear energy is a significant economic driver for the Garden State
Explainer: Making Sense of the Last-Minute Madness That Can Be the Lame Duck
Bills that are pending and in the works are just one part of the puzzle. Here’s a day-by-day guide to the Legislature’s and the governor’s final days
Murphy Taps Assemblywoman to Steer Banking Department
Marlene Caride gets job of overseeing banking, insurance, real estate in New Jersey — and the governor-elect’s proposed new state-run public bank
Op-Ed: Data Shows That Newark Students Are Making Significant Strides
Academics can squabble over the causes, but progress is real for Newark children
Teaming Teachers, School Staff, and Parents to Fight Chronic Absenteeism
While there have been some gains in the war against absenteeism in the past year, too many students are still missing too many days
New Jersey Moves to Outlaw ‘Bump Stocks’ for All Residents
Gun owners are already prohibited from possessing ‘bump stocks,’ which can convert a rifle into a fully automatic weapon. The Legislature wants to ban these devices across the board
Murphy Nominates Democrats’ ‘Rising Star’ as NJ Secretary of State
Tahesha Way charged with protecting rights of voters against pressures from ‘President Trump’s voter suppression panel’
Legal Bid to Stop $200M State Bonds for Controversial Trenton Construction
Opponents try to block Christie administration from issuing debt to finance new office buildings at same time as under-the-radar panel give thumbs-up to project
On Closer Look, PSEG Nuclear Subsidy Bill Outrages Opponents
Some foes accuse PSEG of jiggering subsidy to reach the $300M - $350M it wanted in first place
Will Plan to Expand Cardiac Services in NJ Mean that Small Hospitals Lose Out?
Some skeptics worry that new angioplasty legislation would favor large providers over smaller community operators
Op-Ed: A Better Way to Help the Nukes
Instead of paying the nuclear plants, make the fossil-fuel plants pay us
New Jersey's Energy Future: Electric Vehicles
An NJ Roundtable that delivered both a high-level look at the future of EVs and a slightly more granular discussion of roadblocks and obstacles to progress
In NJ, Electric Vehicles Could Be Key to Economic, Environmental Progress
Lower energy costs just one potential benefit offered by EVs, according to experts at NJ Spotlight roundtable
Opinion: Does GOP Tax Reform Spell Trouble for Murphy’s Millionaires Tax?
Is true-believer Steve Sweeney starting to waffle? Will new administration stumble over key promise, or hit the ground running?
Governor Extends Prescription Contraceptive Benefits to Six Months
New law makes it simpler for low- and middle-income women — who may face time constraints — to prevent gaps in birth-control use
Leveraging Fiscal Power of State Pension System Against Superfund Cheats
Bipartisan law would prevent public-employee pension system from investing in companies — or countries — that shirk their responsibility to remediate polluted sites
PSEG Nuclear Subsidy Bill Could Cost Customers $350M Annually
Made public today, bill is expected to be heard by committee next week and come up for final vote early in January, before end of lame duck
PSEG Nuclear Subsidy Bill Filed, Remains Shrouded in Secrecy
Details of bill not yet made public, so no clue as to how much utility customers will have to pay to keep nuclear plants afloat
Governor Lands Commuters with $2B in Fare Hikes to Help Pay for Gateway Project
Christie, Cuomo flesh out payment plan for long-planned infrastructure upgrade that involves tapping New Jersey straphangers for a big contribution
What Does a Transition Team Do — Especially One with 500-plus Members?
Team members say getting work done isn’t really a problem, and that individual voices can be heard
Answering Your Questions About the Murphy Transition
We invited readers to let us know what questions they have about the ongoing transition. Here’s where we answer them
Interactive Map: Who Does the Best Job Recycling Municipal Waste?
Waste not, want not isn’t the watchword for these communities, but they’ve definitely got the first part down
Trenton Hustles to Allow Politicians to Rejoin State Pension System
With minimal discussion, legislative leaders fast-track effort to allow unknown number of their compadres back into public-employee pension program
Letting First Responders Use Higher Doses of Narcan to Fight Opiate Overdoses
Bipartisan move to give paramedics, firefighters more flexibility in type and dosage of opioid antidotes
Should New Jersey Give the Vote to Convicted Felons?
One of the earliest civil rights decisions the new governor is likely to face is whether to award felons the right to vote — whether they’re in prison, on parole, or on probation
Op-Ed: A New Day for Clean Energy in New Jersey
New Jersey has the power to set its own course on energy, regardless of the shortsighted policies coming out of the Trump administration
Supporters Push to Renew Federal Children’s Healthcare Funding
A variety of patchwork schemes could extend the program over the short term, but advocates argue full funding is of the essence
Throwing the Book at Coastal Flooding and Sea-Level Rise
A comprehensive report from NJ Future gives the governor-elect a new challenge: devise a coordinated response to help residents deal with flooding along the whole coastline
Assemblywoman Muoio Is Murphy’s Pick for ‘Tough’ Job as State Treasurer
Mercer County Democrat, a member of Assembly Budget Committee, knows all about Garden State’s serious fiscal challenges
Using Recycled Asphalt in Quarry Reclamation Worries ‘Greens’
Environmentalists argue oils and heavy metals in the material could seep into groundwater if employed for quarry reclamation
Op-Ed: Who Cooked Up the Trenton State Office Development Project?
No one seems willing to take the blame (understandably), but the new administration should shut the project down until it can be evaluated and rethought
‘Tale of Two Exchanges’ — Why We Pay More for Health Insurance Than New Yorkers
Premium rates have risen much more on the New Jersey side of the Hudson River
EDA to Issue $400M in State Debt for Controversial Government Buildings
Christie administration uses obscure committees and commissions to push through contentious construction plan, keeping Assembly and Senate out of the loop
Hackers Hit PSE&G Third-Party Partner Used to Store Customer Data
Exposure at TIO Networks, a PayPal subsidiary, could reach 2.6 million customer accounts
Governor-Elect Makes Historic Choice for State Attorney General
Gurbir S. Grewal, if confirmed by Senate, will be first South-Asian AG in New Jersey and first Sikh to hold position in any state
Opinion: Newark’s Phantom Gains in School Improvement
The celebrations and self-congratulations are real; unfortunately, the data shows that Newark’s educational successes don’t measure up
NJ Doubles Down on ‘Earn While You Learn’ Drug Counseling Program
State partners with Rutgers to give on-the-job training to hundreds of New Jerseyans who want to help addicts
State Asked to Review Regulatory Structure of NJ Retail Gas Market
Industry association argues ensuring more competition would drive down prices to customers
MacArthur Swims Against Tide, Says GOP Tax Plan Good for New Jersey
Congressman hits out at ‘bloviating’ critics of Republican proposal, says he has worked to improve it
Debate over EV Charging Infrastructure Starts to Power up
More questions than clarity dog discussion: What role will utilities and local governments play in distributing charging stations throughout state?
NJ Lawmakers Want State to Withdraw from NY Harbor Waterfront Commission
Court battle looms if governor agrees to withdraw New Jersey from body whose job it is to fight corruption on NJ and NY docks
ICE Arrests in NJ Courthouses Surging, Lawyers Say
Some undocumented immigrants are afraid to go to court, even to pursue orders of protection against abusive spouses, worried that ICE agents will be waiting for them there
Opinion: Supersize Deductions to Cope with Higher Minimum Wage
Supersizing employer deductions for compensation could help jobs, consumers, and employers weather a much higher minimum wage
New Jersey Needs Its Nuclear Power Plants
It would be a huge step backward to close New Jersey’s largest sources of clean electric generation and replace them with fossil fuels
Lawmakers OK Task Force to Study Hearing-Loss Services
Goal is to review and supplement to make life easier for New Jersey’s hard of hearing
Imposing Stronger Penalties on Employers for Wage Theft — It’s Christie’s Call
Lawmakers want to increase the sanctions for not paying workers their due, business community believes measure is ‘well-intentioned, but overly punitive’
NJ’s Top Dems Present United Front Against GOP Tax Bill
Trio pledge to act as a team when it comes to federal policy priorities on issues from taxes to the Gateway Tunnel
Taking a Big Bite out of NJ Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Lesniak bill would shut down troubled agency, but will it get a hearing in the lame-duck legislative session?
Fed Tax Reform Focuses New Attention on NJ’s Property-Tax Deduction
Written into state’s income tax code in 1996, statute allows Garden State homeowners to deduct up to $10,000 of their annual property taxes
Grid Operator Counsels Caution About PSEG Nuclear Subsidies
In letter to Senate committee, PJM says PSEG must demonstrate need for subsidies, suggests alternative solutions can be pursued
Lawmakers OK New Funding for Tobacco Education Programs
Legislation would divert portion of annual tobacco tax collection to anti-smoking initiatives
Op-Ed: Insurance Bill Would Be Fairer for Professionals, Protect Consumers
New Jersey has the highest number of malpractice claims in the region and exceeds the national average, due to the lengthy statute of limitations
Pols Play Musical Chairs, Trenton’s $220M Building Project Gets Green Light
After making some deft changes to a lowkey — but powerful — panel, bipartisan lawmakers give go-ahead to contentious government construction plan for downtown Trenton
Breastfeeding Bills Would Help Give Babies a Healthy Start in Life
More good news for moms, a measure that would exempt breast pumps from sales tax, and one that extends civil rights to breastfeeding
Opinion: Zero-Emission Credits Aren’t Just for Nuclear Power
We need a comprehensive ZEC policy that reflects the total costs of all power sources — including solar and wind — in the rates charged for them by the state’s utilities
NJ Ready to Join Multistate Nursing License Group?
Supporters say interstate compact is good for nurses and patients, but some nursing organizations concerned it could reduce quality of care in New Jersey
PSE&G Spends, Spends, Spends on New Transmission Infrastructure
State’s largest utility gets the nod from PJM to shell out $170 million replacing aging infrastructure in northern New Jersey
Garden State’s Homeless Rate Halved During Past Decade
No other state saw a bigger decline in homelessness than New Jersey
Christie Hints He Might Sign Bill to Subsidize PSEG’s Nuclear Plants
Governor asserts he won’t back legislation that includes incentives for renewable energy
Fighting the War on Opioids, Substance Abuse on School Front
Administration consolidates tools, lesson plans on one website to help educators spend time teaching rather than searching
Poll Shows Broad Reach of Drug Epidemic, Strong Support for Treatment
Some analysts see findings as indication that people believe war on drugs has failed
In its Last Gasp, Christie Panel Gives Dire Appraisal of NJ’s Public Pension System
Nonpartisan experts say state can no longer afford ‘intransigence, inaction, apathy and denial’ and recommend switch to retirement plans similar to 401(k)s
New Jersey Rents Go Through the Roof, If You Can Afford a Roof
Latest data from the Census Bureau show rents have risen faster than inflation, gobbling up a larger portion of income than in previous years
Op-Ed: $15 Minimum Wage is an Economic Necessity for Working New Jerseyans
As income inequality grows, fewer people earn enough to afford basic daily needs. That doesn’t just hurt them; it also hurts local businesses
State Urges Sale of Beleaguered Meadowlands Hospital
Despite initial hiccups in the process, healthcare panel backs recommendation
Stress Testing Pension System to Help Determine — and Maintain — Fiscal Health
Public-employee pension system comprises numerous funds whose health needs to be ascertained and made public on state website
Federal Grant to Go to EV Charging Stations, Reducing Diesel Emissions
Nearly $10 million will be used to deploy electric-vehicle charging stations at workplaces, trimming emissions from refrigerated trucks
Op-Ed: Collaboration Benefiting Newark Schoolchildren
As Newark transitions back to local control, an exciting time is made all the more so by the burgeoning collaboration between charter and traditional district schools
Lance, Gottheimer Team Up to Save Key Tax Deduction
Bipartisan duo hopes to get GOP lawmakers to ease their stand on SALT deduction, other write-offs
Dem Newcomer to Challenge 12-Term GOP Congressman
Mikie Sherrill, one of seven women running for House seats in New Jersey, is looking to replace Rodney Frelinghuysen
Trio of Top Democrats Could Go to Court to Scuttle GOP Tax Reform
New Jersey’s Gov.-elect Murphy, New York’s Cuomo, California’s Brown could mount a repeal-and-replace effort to fight Republican changes to tax code if they become law
Lawmakers Start to Hash Out Granting Nuclear Subsidies to PSEG
There’s been some suggestion a bill will be dealt with in lame-duck session, but right now there’s almost no real information to go on
NJ Businesses Bullish but Say $15 Minimum Wage Would Cause Job Cuts, Price Hikes
One-third of businesses plan to hire more workers in 2018 and almost two-thirds expect sales to rise next year, but they’re bracing for a new push to raise wages at the lower end
Opinion: The Four Factors Behind Newark’s Education Turnaround
Academic improvement, higher standards for students and educators, parent empowerment through school choice signal hard-won cohesion for a fractured district in a fragmented state
Electronic Health Records Bill Seeks To Protect Against Drug Diversion Concerns
Lawmakers want healthcare technologies to include measures to avoid drug abuse, but some providers concerned about conflict with NJ’s new telemedicine law
Profile: The Perfect Job for a Man Who Wants to Address Injustice in the World
Amol Sinha, head of the NJ ACLU, doesn’t just want to fight the good fight — he wants to fight all of them
Can a ‘No-Zero’ Approach to Schoolwork Make the Grade in New Jersey?
No zeros should be a no-brainer: but some teachers, parents, and even students would rather stick to traditional grading policies
Regional Plan Association Offers Recommendations Big and Smaller for NJ
From T-REX, a massive mass-transit agency, and a Meadowlands National Park to tighter governance and finances for NJ Transit and Port Authority
Water Advocates Seek Public Backing for Massive Infrastructure Upgrade
Jersey Water Works, a collaborative with some 350 members, wants to make water systems and their problems highly visible, even though they’re typically underground
Push to Bring Innovation to Healthcare Starts to Pay off
Tapping into ideas and shortcuts from doctors and nurses delivers benefits large and small, like a simple box that revolutionizes insulin distribution
Court Rules DEP Can Revise Permit for Newark Natural Gas Plant
Environmental and community groups fail in bid to require Newark Energy Center to file for new permit
Op-Ed: A Call to Action to Help End this Country’s Lethal Addiction Crisis
The president’s commission has made promising and sound recommendations. Now we must put action behind the words
Interactive Map: Who Gets Hurt Most by GOP’s Plan to Kill Higher-Ed Deductions?
The Republican tax-reform package targets benefits taken by New Jerseyans in college and grad school — and their families
Hefty Tax Breaks for New Growth Zone Surrounding AC Airport on Cards
As Atlantic City’s gaming business sags, legislators propose lucrative tax incentives to lure industries to area around nearby airport
Lawmakers Back Medication-Assisted Treatment, New Addiction Science
Push is on to move beyond total sobriety as only way to overcome substance-use disorders
Will New Jersey Make a Healthy Environment an Inalienable Right?
Garden State could follow Pennsylvania and Montana and pass constitutional amendment to safeguard clean air, water
Op-Ed: PSEG, Open Your Books!
To protect ratepayers against the potential for zero-emission credits to become a source of windfall profits for PSEG, it is essential the Legislature demand an “open-book” approach
Troubled NJSPCA Is One Step Closer to Abolition
Organization supposed to enforce animal-cruelty laws, flayed in recent state report, now on the brink of termination
Is Showdown in Offing over Nuclear Subsidies in New Jersey?
Foes worry that those in favor of scheme will try to push a bill through in lame-duck session
Top Banker Focuses on Vital Need for ‘Income Mobility’
At Rutgers-New Brunswick, NY Fed president addresses key issues — including pension obligations — that await incoming governor Phil Murphy
Longstanding Proposal for Caregiver Taskforce Revived
People caring for aging friends and family are burning out; the Legislature is looking into getting them some respite
$79 Million Gubernatorial Election Was Second Most Costly in State History
Gov.-elect Murphy shelled out $36 million on his successful bid, while Lt. Gov. Guadagno spent a relatively paltry $9 million
Opinion: A Year One Clean-Water Agenda for New Jersey
It’s time for New Jersey to become a leader once again in protecting our residents and our economy through smart, innovative investments in the water systems
Private Developers Pile in for Camden Reconstruction
South Jersey city’s downtown and waterfront are being transformed as state’s $2B incentive program proves a big lure for builders
Federal Audit Queries $600M Spending on NJ School Medicaid
State defends calculations, suggests fight could go to federal court
New Industry-Led Coalition Opposes Nuclear Subsidies to PSEG
Deriding ‘PSEG energy tax,’ group argues there’s no need for subsidies since company’s South Jersey nuclear plants are still profitable
Murphy Goes All in on Technology as Means to Rehab NJ Economy
As his team’s transition activities ramp up, governor-elect emphasizes importance of technology and innovation to renew Garden State
Op-Ed: Airport Workers, First Line of Service, First Line of Defense
While we’ve had several victories in improving work conditions, most of us still earn minimum-wage salaries and live below the poverty-wage rate
Essex County College Could Lose Accreditation
Troubled institution, that expanded rapidly in recent years, given notice it must fix ‘administrative issues’ by March 2018
GOP Tax Overhaul to Pummel New Jersey Residents?
It’s not looking good for NJ homeowners and renters if Republicans in Washington, DC manage to agree tax legislation this week
Advocates Want State-Based Obamacare Protections in ‘Chaotic’ Healthcare Era
Nonprofit backed by Horizon urges New Jersey to shore up the Affordable Care Act at the state level, offers a healthcare roadmap for incoming governor
‘Greens’ Sue FERC to Stop Unlawful Use of Eminent Domain by PennEast
Pipeline company needs access to private land along route, pushes federal agency to let it use eminent domain to sidestep uncooperative property owners
A Woman’s Place? NJ Women Still Scarce at High Levels of Government
Women fared much better in freeholder elections, but female representation far lower than in population overall
Federal Tax Changes Could Hit NJ Municipalities with ‘Double Whammy’
Possible elimination of deduction for state and local taxes has received lots of attention, but ending of tax-exempt status for certain bonds could also hurt New Jersey
Opinion: Can Sen. Tom Kean Jr. Regroup Battered Republicans?
Ironically, given the Republican rout, Minority Leader Kean Jr. could help his party deliver a viable alternative to the governor-elect’s left-of-center predilections
Sheila Oliver Discusses How Phil Murphy Will Govern
The new lieutenant governor probably knows the governor-elect better than anyone outside of his family. What does she have to say?
New Normal for NJ Republicans: Finding Ways to Be Bipartisan
With the Democrats controlling the Legislature and the governor’s mansion, the Garden State GOP needs to find a way to make sure its voice is heard in Trenton
Tell Us What You Want to Know About Murphy’s Transition Team
We can help answer your questions, and your question can help shape our coverage
New Jersey Dentists to Play New Role Screening for Diabetes
Starting next year, dentists in the Garden State will be able to get paid for performing chairside diabetes screenings for at-risk patients
Pesticide Ban Stalls When Critics Claim Feds Should Make Call
Obama administration recommendation to stop using chlorpyrifos reversed by Scott Pruitt, new head of EPA
New Jersey Scientists Urge State to Curb Another Chemical in Drinking Water
Maximum Contaminant Limit for PFOS would help protect human health over a lifetime of exposure to the chemical, which has been linked to cancer, immune-system problems
Port Authority Pushes on with Plans to Extend PATH from NYC to Newark Liberty
Once completed new service will give commuters and tourists one-seat ride to airport, could also help open Newark’s South Ward to economic redevelopment
New Guidelines Bump Up Pool of Patients with High Blood Pressure
‘Elevated’ blood pressure, a new category, should respond well to lifestyle changes like diet and exercise
JCP&L Gets Nod to Build High-Voltage Line in Morris County
Seven-mile transmission line is latest in series of projects meant to enhance reliability of the power grid
Easing Prisoner Reentry by Making It Easier for Ex-Offenders to Find Jobs
Program would issue certificates certifying that former inmates are employable, would also help them find public-sector work or get state-issued licenses
Gov.-Elect Murphy Must Prioritize Disability Community in 2018
For the governor-elect to recognize that people with disabilities are a primary constituent base is a first critical step
Murphy and Democratic Leaders Agree on $15 Minimum Wage — Little Else
Right now, there’s no timetable for boosting minimum wage and no decision as to whether some sectors, like restaurants and agriculture, will be exempt from the final $15 goal
Play or Pay: Feds Threaten to Cut Law Enforcement Grants to Sanctuary Cities
The U.S. DOJ has sent letters to Newark and Middlesex County — along with cities nationwide — warning that not working with immigration authorities could mean loss of funding
Lawmakers Ready to Say ‘No’ to More Development in Highlands
Legislators move to roll back rule, issue rare rebuke to executive branch that originally passed regulation
Something New for Our Readers
Please welcome Today's Spotlight, our revamped, redesigned daily email newsletter
Push for Statewide Mental-Health Screening Gains Momentum
Early intervention helps keep people with mental illnesses out of overcrowded ERs, which are not prepared to assist them
Desperate to Stay in U.S., 'Dreamers' Declare Hunger Strike
Undocumented young people will visit offices of congressional Republicans in New Jersey, foregoing food until Thanksgiving dinner
For NJ Charities, Tax-Reform Bills Offer Little to Be Thankful For
Among other things, they will shred our community fabric by injecting politics and dark money into charitable work
Will Arbitration Cap for Cops, Firefighters Be Extended in Lame Duck?
Some lawmakers, advocates say the cap helps hold down property taxes, a potent argument with GOP tax reform poised to eliminate valuable deductions
New Jersey’s Public Schools Still Among Most Segregated in Nation
Almost 10 percent of all students attend “apartheid schools,” where 99 percent or more of the student body is nonwhite
The List: Where Did the Library-Bond Issue Garner the Least Support?
The three counties that came out against the library-bond ballot question also supported the candidacy of Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno
Proposal to Add Psychiatric/Addiction Treatment Beds Takes Shape
More than 24 hospitals and healthcare providers have been given green light to add 81 beds
Op-Ed: As Educators, We Must Measure What We Truly Value
Our current system is designed on the premise that there is a single success path and any deviation is either ignored, or worse, punished
Democrats, Republicans Must Protect New Jersey from GOP Tax Threat — Murphy
Sweeney echoes Gov.-Elect, says Republican proposals to change tax code would have ‘devastating effect’ on Garden State
Menendez Emotional After Judge Declares Mistrial in Bribery, Corruption Case
Senator thanks supporters, implies 'elements' in FBI and New Jersey prejudiced against ‘the Latino kid from Union City and Hudson County’
State Funds New Addiction Treatment for Mom and Baby
New programs come at critical time, as number of addicted newborns in NJ — and nationally — continues to rise
Interactive Map: Tracking Voter Turnout County by County
County by county assessments help show where the voters went to the polls and where they stayed home — compared with the stats for 2013
NJ Lawmakers Ask EPA to Waive Ethanol Rule for Local Gasoline
Adding ethanol to gasoline is a federal requirement that may drive production costs at Paulsboro refinery over the top, threatening its viability
Op-Ed: New Challenges for Law Enforcement in a Digital World
More and more, police officers and first responders are required to secure digital evidence in the field. They must know where to begin and when to stop
NJEA Spent $5.7M of Union Dues on Recent Election
Many members erroneously believe teachers union spent only funds from voluntary donations on recent political battles
Opposition Builds to Tying ACA Individual Mandate to GOP Tax Plan
Latest Senate tax-reform package would eliminate tax penalty for people who don’t buy insurance, possibly driving up prices
PJM Takes Wraps Off Plan to Prop Up Prices for Nuclear, Coal Power
Regional grid operator’s proposal is one answer to growing clamor by power producers to help subsidize plants that are struggling to compete
Christie Administration’s Push for New Government Offices in Trenton Stymied
Demolition of two state buildings and construction of two more fail to get go-ahead from State House Commission
Rezoning Near Train Stations Essential to Transit-Oriented Development
Communities that block multifamily housing from being built near train stations are contributing to the host of problems New Jersey faces
Opinion: Top 5 Reforms for Municipal Land-Use Law — a Hand-Picked List
A much-needed overhaul of the complex zoning law that governs most development in the state should be high on new governor's agenda
NJ Needs More Scrutiny of Maternal Care and Deaths — Democratic Lawmakers
As maternal death rate continues to rise in New Jersey, Sen. Vitale says ‘greater emphasis on the health of mothers’ is essential
VW Will Pay Garden State Another $69M to Settle Pollution Suit
New payment over and above original $72 million shelled out to settle earlier suit involving cheating scandal
Sitting Down for a Peaceful, Post-Election Conversation in Long Valley
Members of our Long Valley Voting Block agree to disagree, exchanging rancor for rational debate
Another Round of Repairs for Penn Station NYC Will Mean More Schedule Changes
Officials assure commuters this will not be another ‘Summer of Hell’ starting after New Year’s
Opinion: National Tax Reform — Questions for New Jersey Residents
Asking the right questions can help New Jerseyans get a picture of how GOP-backed tax reform will impact them
Judge in Menendez Case Not Ready to Let Jury Quit
Defense renews call for mistrial, prosecution argues for allowing partial verdicts
NJ Congressional Delegation Deeply Divided on Trump Tax Reform
It comes down to SALT, a threatened tax break that lets residents deduct local and state taxes, a lifeline for many New Jerseyans
Planned Parenthood Expects Murphy to Increase Funding for Women’s Health Issues
Weinberg, other Democrats want speedy restoration of financial support that Gov. Christie suspended
New Regional Initiative — RGGI for Transportation Sector
Transportation is the biggest source of carbon emissions contributing to climate change, but will NJ sign on when it’s also poised to rejoin RGGI?
Craig Coughlin: Low-Profile Legislator Taking Prieto’s Place as Assembly Speaker
Coughlin emphasizes coalitions and compromise, but the test will be in the day-to-day rough-and-tumble that’s state government in New Jersey
Murphy Names Transition Team, Signals His Priorities
High-profile appointees include NJEA president; Gov.-elect also appoints less well-known figures
Opinion: New Jersey Budget Challenges Are Significant and Immediate
The new governor has many ambitious plans, but first he must make sure the 2018 fiscal years ends with a surplus — as required
Menendez Jury Can’t Agree, Asks Judge for Guidance
Defense seeks mistrial, judge says there’s ‘no way on this green Earth’ that he would make such a declaration
At AC Teachers Convention, Many Claim ‘Disconnect’ from Politics
There may not be much interest in NJEA’s costly attempt to unseat Sen. Sweeney, but Gov.-elect Murphy gets roaring welcome from crowd
Can Gov.-Elect Murphy Make a Go of His Public Bank?
It was an idea regularly trotted out during the campaign, now Murphy and Co. are starting to assess how to make that proposal a reality
Legislature, DEP at Loggerheads Again Over Septic Tanks in Highlands
Lawmakers moving to block agency proposal, could use rarely employed tool to rescind rules judged inconsistent with legislative intent
Opinion: Where Did New Jersey's GOP Go Wrong? Let Me Count the Ways
The poisonous memory of Bridgegate, the unshakeable image of Christie basking on the beach, the NJEA’s doomed attempt to punish Sweeney — and that’s for starters
State Expands Efforts to Address Childhood Asthma at Home
Pilot project seeks to address environmental factors like dust, smoke, roaches, where kids with chronic asthma live
NJ Moves to Ban Pesticide OK’d by Trump Administration
Widely used on a variety of crops, chlorpyrifos has been linked to potentially harmful effects in people
Expecting Murphy to Move Fast on Range of Economic Policies
Christie vetoed Democratic bills on $15 minimum wage, millionaires tax but Gov.-elect shares legislators’ top priorities
Christie and Trump: The Best Friends New Jersey Democrats Ever Had?
Pollsters and pundits alike argue that dissatisfaction with the governor and the president helped put Democrats over the top in race after race
Fed-Up LoBiondo to Quit Congress, Fired-Up Dems Resolve to Flip Seat
As centrist South Jersey Republican laments disappearance of ‘middle ground’ in national politics, Democrats see chance to replace him
GOP Tax-Reform Bill Could Sideline NJ’s Clean-Energy Efforts
Republicans in D.C. are looking to slash or eliminate tax credits that encourage solar and wind power, help offset the price of electric vehicles
Opinion: Chris Christie’s Surprisingly Solid Record in Public Education
It’s easy to mock the soon-to-be-ex governor; it’s harder to admit he’s leaving NJ’s public schools in better shape than he found them
Horizon Joins Coalition for National Standards for Substance Abuse
Goal of ‘payers’ group is to make certain that addiction is ultimately treated like other chronic diseases
Murphy Stays on Message for Victory Speech, Promising to Be Activist Governor
Some pundits say Guadagno was running against her long service with Gov. Christie as much as against Murphy
Dems Pick Up Key Seats in Legislature, GOP Takes Several Tight Races
At end of the day, Democrats still have the Legislature locked up — after withstanding some tough challenges and pulling out a few surprise victories
New Jersey Voters Handily Ratify Two Ballot Questions
Bond issue for libraries will help them modernize and expand, while a second question prevents environmental settlements from being diverted to general budget
Growing Focus on ‘Social Determinants of Health’
Issues like poverty, food insecurity, housing status, and violence play a huge role in public and individual health
Op-Ed: Battling Addiction Should Be a Fair and Colorblind Fight
Let’s stop dividing and making classes of addicts and instead start fighting the scourge of addiction collectively
Last-Minute Questions About the Election? This Is the Story for You
It’s not too late to be an informed voter, whether you're wondering about low turnout or battleground districts or ...
Local Politics in New Jersey Takes Ugly Turn with Racist Fliers
Anonymous mailers call for candidates in Edison school board race to be deported, warn that Hoboken mayoral candidate is a terrorist
Pols Push for Voting Machines that Offer Paper Trail for Every Ballot Cast
There’s no evidence any of the state’s electronic voting machines have been hacked, but upgrade program would add new layer of security
NJ Providers Continue Work to Assist Puerto Rico’s Healthcare System
Dedicated group of NJ healthcare providers has made two trips to hard-hit island, with another one planned
New Lighthouse District Initiative Shines Light on Top Schools
Rollout of initial recipients spotlights small districts that are very smart about how they use data to tune curriculum, teacher advancement
NJ Puts New Rule in Place to Limit Air Pollution from Soot
Plants and businesses that spew soot will be required to comply with new regulation when they apply for new permits
Op-Ed: I Don’t Want to Vote
I am tired of the same-old, same-old of both major parties, firmly entrenched, spouting the trite slogans that lost meaning for me eight-plus election cycles ago
Pushing Ahead with Reforms to New Jersey’s Criminal Justice System
Final report in ‘Crossroads NJ’ series argues state must address disparities in number of whites and blacks serving time in prison, among other issues
Master the Complexities of the 2017 Elections
NJ Spotlight's Election Guide delivers what you need: news, analysis, insights, and interactive tools
Fed Report Affirms Effects of Climate Change Already Visible
As people continue to contribute to global warming, extreme weather, sea-level rise will become more pressing problems
Understanding, Addressing Disproportionality in NJ Schools
Disproportionality can be defined as an over-representation of students from certain racial/ethnic groups in special-education programs
Plan to Fund Healthcare for Children, Community Clinics Comes at a Cost
Partisan battle erupts over funding CHIP, FQHCs with money from Obamacare
Let the Candidate Decoder Help Take the Mystery Out of Governor’s Race
An easy, interactive way to find out where the candidates stand on the most important issues for New Jersey
Op-Ed: We Can Fight Climate Chaos from the Garden State
If NJ is going to address future superstorms, we need to stop building pipelines and develop an aggressive plan to move to 100 percent clean, renewable energy
For Phil Murphy, Getting out the Vote Could Be Key to Governor’s Race
If voter turnout is especially low, results could skew red in a blue state
Taking the Measure of Phil Murphy: A Progressive Vision for New Jersey
It’s not just the Republicans who question Murphy’s liberal platform, some Democratic insiders say he just doesn’t get New Jersey
Interactive Map: Tracking the Gubernatorial Campaign Contributions
Record amounts are being spent on this year’s race for the governor’s mansion. Here’s a way to see who’s being the most generous to which candidate
In the 3rd, Costly Grudge Match Pits Sweeney Against Grenier and NJEA
The teachers union has spent $4.5 million backing a self-described ‘Trump Republican’ looking to wrest the seat from Democrat who has angered the NJEA
‘Landmark’ Decision Exposes Disconnect in NJ Pot Policy
Superior court orders state to consider reclassifying marijuana as a less tightly controlled substance
Good News for Offshore Wind: Both Gubernatorial Candidates Back It
Some experts say it’s not too late for New Jersey to develop a thriving sector based on offshore wind and related technologies
NJ’s Hefty Unfunded Liabilities Matter of Concern to Outside Analysis
State barely escapes earning a failing grade for its overburdened pension system, long-term obligations from Volcker Alliance
Governor’s Race 2017: Candidates Sharply Divided on Crime, Social Justice
Perhaps no other issues throw the candidates in such bold relief as policing, guns and gun violence, undocumented immigrants, and legalizing marijuana
Op-Ed: Environmental Justice Is Key Aspect of Climate-Change Policy
Climate-change mitigation must not only reduce carbon dioxide emissions but also reduce the disproportionate amount of pollution in many environmental-justice communities
Kim Guadagno: Running Hard Enough to Become NJ’s Second Woman Governor?
Guadagno has always made herself available to businesspeople and now to her backers, but she remains aloof when it comes to reporters
Governor’s Race 2017: Candidates Deeply Divided on Education
From school funding to student testing, Murphy and Guadagno could be speaking different languages
Important Ballot Questions on Library Funding, Pollution Settlements
New borrowing for libraries and a constitutional amendment to ensure pollution settlements are not diverted into general budget
Rule Change Expands Addiction Treatment Options for Medicaid Patients
New Jersey one of two states to see immediate benefit
DEP Sets Nation’s Strictest Limit on Chemical in Drinking Water
PFOA has been linked to cancer, high cholesterol, and developmental problems in young children
Op-Ed: Fixing the Pension System for Teachers and Taxpayers
We have made great progress, especially in the past year, to put our pension system on the road to full funding
Beyond the Truck Attacker, the Long Reach of ISIS in the New York Area
Twenty-five people living in New York and New Jersey have been charged with ISIS-related crimes during the past four years
Murphy Grilled on Ability to Deal with Terror Attacks
Frontrunner in governor’s race says public safety must take precedence over politics
Do You Have a Message for NJ’s Next Governor?
What are your priorities for the next NJ governor? Help us build the ‘people’s agenda’
Medicare Proposal Urges ‘Drastic’ Cut in Home Health Funding
Patients and providers concerned about regulation scheduled for 2019
The Importance of Coattails in ‘Truly Competitive’ LD 16 Races
Impact of gubernatorial contest, changes in district, and Ciattarelli’s departure make the 16th among the more combative arenas in this election cycle
One Legal Challenge Filed Against $300M State House Renovation Remains
Assemblyman Wisniewski asks state’s Superior Court to overturn lower-court ruling that gave the go-ahead to the controversial undertaking
PSEG Backs Trump Administration Plan to Spur Nuclear Industry
Company looks to state or other possibilities for ways to keep its nuclear plants from closing due to economic pressure from natural-gas industry
Op-Ed: Open Space as Important as Ever
Preservation must remain a priority for incoming administration
Menendez Trial: Lawyers Spar over How Judge Will Instruct Jury
Defense and prosecution attorneys spend day haggling over what directive judge should give jury
Diverse Stakeholders Team up to Support Health Insurance Enrollment
Shortened sign-up period and fewer supports trigger advocates’ concerns
Governor’s Race 2017: Candidates Pledge to Fix NJ's Transportation Woes
Leading candidates agree Garden State’s transportation issues are critical, but they diverge significantly on how to repair them
Shad Surge in Delaware River Thanks to Pollution Controls, Dam Removal
Number of juvenile shad monitored in summer count highest in 38 years, according to state DEP
NJ Sierra Club v. Pinelands Commission Back in Appellate Court
At heart of dispute, 30-mile pipeline project that New Jersey Natural Gas argues is key to increasing reliability for its customers
Op-Ed: Vote 'Yes' on Question 1, Help NJ’s Public Libraries Election Day
In this increasingly contentious atmosphere, libraries remain one of the last vestiges of the public sphere
Defense Rests in Menendez Case, Motion for Mistrial Fails
Closing arguments likely to begin on Wednesday, jury could start deliberations later this week
Guadagno Talks Taxes, Taxes, Taxes on WNYC’s Brian Lehrer Show
Host rattles Republican candidate when he questions if she favors abortion but not for poor women
Governor’s Race 2017 Could Lead to a Greener New Jersey
Murphy has taken an aggressive stance on energy and the environment, while Guadagno has muddled her position on regional initiative to fight greenhouse gases
Trenton Program Selected for National Diabetes Grant from Merck
Plans include using people who are successfully managing their own diabetes to mentor those struggling to get the disease under control
NJ’s Booker Backs Small-Business Accelerators and Incubators
For U.S. representative and colleagues, the best return on investment is likely to come from smaller startups with rapid growth potential rather than established companies
Op-Ed: Will Christie’s Successor Block Trump’s Efforts to Dismantle EJ?
The New Jersey Environmental Justice Alliance recognizes that communities of color and low-income communities are typically overburdened by environmental pollution
Five Years After Sandy, Superstorm Continues to Punish Survivors
Some victims still have no place to call home; others are being dunned by state and feds to return part of their aid
New Jersey Inks 10-Year Pact on Taking Water from Delaware River
Agreement — also signed by three other states and New York City — ends dispute over release of water from city reservoirs
Governor’s Race 2017: Murphy, Guadagno Short on Specifics for Higher Ed
Both have ambitious plans to boost STEM studies, slow tuition increases, ease student debt — but neither has a roadmap showing how to get there from here
Pallone Gathering Sends Out Alarm on Gun Violence as Threat to Public Health
Health and safety experts share grim statistics about firearms violence in the United States at NJ congressman’s forum
Lesniak’s Last Campaign — to Give NJ Transit Commuters Seats on the Board
Outgoing senator wants to give a real say to NJT’s harried passengers, who’ve dealt with crashes, fare hikes, service reductions, and reduced reliability
Op-Ed: Now That’s a Patient-Centered Value Framework
Insurance companies often use value frameworks to steer all patients to the least-expensive products, erecting barriers to obtaining recommended treatments
Menendez Trial: Defense Calls for Mistrial, Senators Show Up in Support
Tempers rise, judge slaps down claim that he has impeded attorneys’ efforts on behalf of senator and co-defendant
Feds to Fund Massive Flood-Control Project for Hoboken, Nearby Towns
Project includes green infrastructure to protect three communities from storm surges that left them inundated after Hurricane Sandy
Governor’s Race 2017: Back Seat for Healthcare in Final Phase of Campaigning
Guadagno, Murphy agree on opioid crisis, disagree on future of the ACA, but have not given detailed plans on certain aspects of healthcare policy
Deutsche Bank Settles Interest-Fixing Claims for $220 Million
New Jersey and dozens of other states to share in settlement, which ultimately affected the state's public-employee pension system, other entities
South Asians in NJ Exercise Growing Political Muscle
A growing population of South Asians, now a sought-after voting bloc in the Garden State, puts forward a number of candidates
Op-Ed: Returning to Local Control — What Does Newark Need to Know?
As a significantly diminished and dismantled district is returned to local control, we need credible and independent accounting in all areas
Former Head of NJ Black Ministers Council Testifies for Menendez
Rev. Reginald Jackson describes Senator as ‘forthright and honest, a man of integrity’
Governor’s Race 2017: Plans and Planks for Affordable Housing
Murphy, the Democratic candidate, has program for putting low-income residents into homes of their own. For Lt. Gov. Guadagno, property-tax relief will get the job done
Ad Watch: Gubernatorial Election Spots — More Than Meets the Eye?
What the latest round of ads for the governor’s race overestimates, underreports, and simply gets wrong
New Jersey Gets Scorched by Increasing Number of Extreme-Heat Days
Climate change is fueling hotter summers, boosting the intensity and frequency of heat waves, and sending more people to the ER
Take-No-Prisoners Senate Race in LD 11 Pits Incumbent Beck against Gopal
Deep-pocketed Democrats have targeted Beck’s seat and are willing to spend — and spend — to get what they want
Indoor Shooting Ranges Targeted as Sources of Lead Poisoning in Adults
Children are not the only ones at risk of exposure to the metal; New Jersey poison expert warns of risk to grown-ups
Opinion: Another Day 1 Job for Gov. Murphy — Bring Back the Public Advocate
A cabinet-level public advocate can be a spokesman for those who have no voice, a champion of those who have no power
Defense Calls Menendez’s Longtime Confidant to Witness Stand
Donald Scarinci says that he, not Menendez, solicited campaign contributions from co-defendant Melgen
The Future of Medicaid in New Jersey
While the cost of Medicaid is growing slowly, the potential of federal reforms and other changes could make it a challenge to maintain or expand the program
Trump Makes Few Friends with Scheme to Subsidize Coal, Nuclear
Opponents argue proposal is unworkable and unlawful, could drive up consumer energy bills
Christie-Led Opioid Task Force Wraps Up as Pressure Mounts on Trump to Act
Governor disputes panel member’s pessimistic comments, says he’s confident president ‘supports fighting this epidemic aggressively’
Unlikely Partners Say $7B Amazon Sweetener Not Worth it to NJ
Improbable alliance working to turn legislators against massive tax-incentive deal that governor, other politicians hope will draw online giant’s second corporate headquarters to Newark
Governor’s Race 2017: Angry Accusations, Real Differences on Immigration
Democratic candidate Murphy wants to protect undocumented New Jerseyans. Republican Guadagno says his policies would put other residents at risk
Environmental Justice: The New Civil Rights?
U.S. Sen. Booker backs bill that would make it easier for low-income neighborhoods, communities of color to block projects that would add to pollution
Opinion: Real Implications of Affordability — It’s Not Just Political Rhetoric
When money is tight or health fails, stress is a major factor in people’s lives
Menendez Trial: Defense Rolls Out Character Witnesses
Witness testifies that senator is ‘one of the most honest and trustworthy people…’
NJSPCA: More a Home for ‘Wannabe’ Cops Than a Haven for Animals?
State agency finds NJ Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals spends more on police equipment and lawsuits than it does enforcing animal cruelty laws
Governor’s Race 2017: Property Taxes, Pension System, Economic Growth
Sound bites and TV spots aren’t enough to get an accurate understanding of the leading candidates’ policies and platforms
State Wants to Help Get a Few CNG-Powered Vehicles on Road
BPU program looks to get 10 or more trucks or buses running on compressed natural gas out in traffic, replacing diesel-fueled vehicles
Lawmakers Vow to Crack Down on Background Check Problems
State auditor reveals gaps in certain oversight at homes for disabled residents
Op-Ed: Pensions, Politics, and the New Jersey Education Association
New Jerseyans must wake up to the reality that we have allowed a special interest to rig our political system for its own benefit
The Blue Boost: Barack Obama Gets Out the Vote for Phil Murphy
Obama, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and other Democratic leaders urge crowd to put Murphy and Oliver in the State House
Victims Share Lessons Learned Five Years After Sandy, but Is State Listening?
Many whose lives were upended by superstorm don't think New Jersey is any better prepared now than before storm hit
Sexual Assaults Up at NJ Colleges, Victims May Feel Safer About Reporting
Increase in reports of sexual violence probably reflects fact that ‘survivors know they’ll be believed and the system will take them seriously’
High Arsenic Levels in Some Private Wells in New Jersey
New study maps where people get drinking water, correlates private sources with presence of arsenic
In South Jersey’s 2nd, a Surprisingly Tight Race for State Senate Seat
A sudden death, a last-minute switch in the ticket — and the obligatory attack ads — bring Democrat and Republican within striking distance for contested Senate seat
Controversial DMHAS Move Now Well Underway
Provider groups ‘cautiously optimistic’ about massive integration of behavioral and physical healthcare
Op-Ed: What is a College Degree Worth?
Knowing what we collectively expect from a college education determines how to calculate its value
Rancorous Second Debate Marked by Jabs, Insults, Accusations
Murphy and Guadagno pull no punches in attempts to dismiss, discredit each other’s platforms and positions
Double-Digit Health Insurance Rate Hikes in Cards for Many New Jerseyans
Despite any last-minute deal in Washington to underpin ACA insurance rates, it’s probably too late for 2018
Budget Basics: New Jersey’s Fiscal Future, a Path to Improvement
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
High-Tax Connecticut a Cautionary Tale for New Jersey?
Despite increasing taxes, the Nutmeg State has suffered budget shortfalls and credit-rating downgrades. What lessons can NJ learn from its neighbor?
SJI Picks Up Elizabethtown Gas, Maryland’s Elkton Gas, in $1.7B Deal
If deal goes through, South Jersey Gas subsidiary of SJI will be the second-largest gas provider in Garden State
PSE&G Gets Green Light from PJM for 3 New Transmission Projects
Trio represents $200 million in new investments, part of $1 billion in transmission-related infrastructure approved by operator of power grid
Menendez Staffer Says Support of Melgen Was Above Board
Karissa Willhite said it was common for senator’s staff to make inquiries within the government on behalf of constituents and supporters
Join with Us Tonight for the Second Gubernatorial Debate
Livestream begins at 7:00 p.m.
Join with Us for Tonight's Second Gubernatorial Debate
Livestream begins at 7:00 p.m.
Will Climate Change Revive an Old Idea: a Regional Coastal Commission?
Hurricanes and extreme storms, sea-level rise, major flooding are more than a single municipality can deal with on its own
Tackling the Toughest Questions Facing NJ’s Public Education System
A new report in the “Crossroads NJ” series recommends a variety of solutions to problems like school funding and segregation
What Does It Cost to Win — or Lose — an Election in New Jersey?
With less than a month to go to Election Day, who’s spent big, who has the most money on hand?
New Bond Issue Edges Closer as Vo-Techs Make Case for Urgent State Funding
Garden State’s vocational high schools appeal for more money to help them keep pace with the rising demand for technical training
Opinion: Winning with the Party Regulars Rather than the Center
Low voter turnout and poor name recognition may mean this gubernatorial election will be decided by dependable party loyalists who turn out year after year
Melgen’s Wife Says Menendez and Co-defendant Exchanged Gifts Out of Real Friendship
Bribery and corruption trial, now in its seventh week, hears from wife of senator’s co-defendant
AFT Endorses Sweeney as NJEA Continues to Work Hard for His Ouster
Endorsement puts AFT at odds with New Jersey’s largest teachers’ union, which is trying hard to end Senate President’s political career
At Debate, Lieutenant Governor Candidates Mostly Stay on Message
A few bobbled questions, a few ineffective jabs add some tension — and laughs — to only public meeting between Dem’s Sheila Oliver and GOP’s Carlos Rendo
Memo to Next Governor: Appoint Blue Ribbon Panel on Higher Education
State support for higher education has diminished markedly in past two decades, while tuition has gone up without making more funding available to low-income and middle-class students
State, City Offer $7B Tax Incentives in Bid to Lure Amazon HQ2 to Newark
Christie, Booker, Baraka back campaign for Internet retail giant to put its new corporate headquarters in New Jersey, but skeptics worry about ‘out-of-control’ corporate tax breaks
As Electric Vehicle Market Emerges, Infrastructure Issues Come to Fore
Long-running questions about charging stations, as well as newer ones about role of utilities, are being hashed out
Judge in Menendez Trial Denies Defense Motion to Dismiss
Defense argues that prosecution has failed to produce a ‘smoking gun’ proving NJ senator had traded favors for a specific gift
Package of Three Bills Ratchets Up State’s Renewable-Energy Goals
Bills reflect the alternative energy policies that gubernatorial candidate Phil Murphy has said he would enact
Celebrating Even the ‘Early Action’ Phase of Portal Bridge Project
With money tight and no word from feds if they’re going to free up funds anytime soon for Gateway, start of small project gets full groundbreaking treatment
The List: How Well-Heeled is New Jersey’s Congressional Delegation?
According to a new report from a nonpartisan organization, none of the Garden State’s Senators and Representatives are hurting, although there’s a wide range from top to bottom
Despite Concerns, Panelists See Ways to Improve NJ Medicaid
NJ Spotlight roundtable delves into program’s future, maternal health issues
Op-Ed: Students Must Move Beyond Social Media to Become Truly Engaged
It may sound old fashioned, but today’s students need to learn to read reputable news sources, in hard copy or online — for motive as well as content
Nothing to Celebrate: No Hike in State-Employee Healthcare Premiums
Cost-cutting measures expected to deliver $1.6B in savings to state over next three years
The Candidate's Coffers: Murphy’s in the Money, Guadagno’s Struggling
With $5.4 million in hand, Murphy can easily outspend Guadagno, who has slightly less than $1 million available
Budget Basics: How the State Budget Is Developed and Revenue Estimated
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
Pallone Takes Trump Administration to Task for Nuclear, Coal Subsidies
U.S. Representative criticizes plan to have ratepayers subsidize coal and nuclear power to offset losses due to competition with cheaper natural gas
Guadagno’s Out-of-Context Campaign Ad Draws Firestorm of Criticism
Lieutenant governor’s TV spot falsely accuses opponent Phil Murphy as ‘having the back’ of convicted killer and undocumented immigrant
Defining the American Dream: Success, Pride, and Dignity
Tommy Xie has built a successful business and is raising a happy family. Now he wants to help other Chinese immigrants do the same
South Jersey School District Shuts Down Because of Mold Contamination
Parents express frustration with way officials in Monroe Township have handled the problem
NJ Loses Federal Funding to Expand ACA Enrollment
Some $26 million in cuts will put a serious dent in ACA navigator programs in virtually all states
Rethinking NJ’s Housing Market to Meets Needs of Suburbanites, City Dwellers
Housing is more than shelter: It’s a vital component in the health, growth, and economic wellbeing of the Garden State
State Appellate Court Blocks Mining Operation in Pinelands
Court finds Pinelands Commission’s rejection of project was justified because it did not conform to region’s Comprehensive Management Plan
Trump Tax Policy Could Be Tough on Mom-and-Pop Shops, Main Street
Although it’s intended to help small-business owners, many of them don’t make enough money to qualify for the administration’s pass-through business-tax break
Op-Ed: NJ’s Next Governor Should Champion Environmental Justice
It's time that New Jersey recommit itself to being a leader on environmental protection through an affirmative environmental justice policy
Prosecution Rests in Sixth Week of Menendez Corruption Trial
Defense calls for dismissal of all charges against senator and his co-defendant
Some Sharp Exchanges, Some Name Calling, but No Clear Winner in First Debate
Republican Guadagno is aggressor in initial debate between candidates for governor, but Democrat Murphy has no problem pushing back or going on the attack
Long Valley Voting Block on the Debate: Unimpressed and Unconvinced
The first gubernatorial debate left Long Valley voters with more questions than answers, and wishing for more specifics
One Last Question: The Candidates on District Consolidation
Home rule is still the order of the day, but both candidates understand the economic boost that would come with regionalization
Sale of Troubled Meadowlands Hospital Advances
Public hearing on transfer of for-profit facility scheduled for October 19
Trump Administration Rolls Back Obama Clean Power Plan
Immediate effects on New Jersey limited, but environmentalists call for state to become a leader in fighting carbon pollution and greenhouse-gas emissions
Small Steps in Dyslexia Education Add up to Measurable Progress
The release of a long-awaited educator’s guidebook, as well as pending legislation on teaching reading, truly help make October Dyslexia Awareness Month
Op-Ed: Let’s Talk About Quality Instead of Charter vs. Public Schools
Regardless of the school type, the focus should always be on the quality of the teachers, education, and student experience
Exploring the History of Property Taxes in New Jersey
From the mid-1970s to yesterday’s gubernatorial debate, property taxes have bedeviled New Jersey pols and their constituents
Ready for the Fireworks? Will Tonight’s Debate Be as Heated as the Run-Up?
Misrepresentations, distortions, and accusations of ‘outright lying’ have already been leveled by one side or the other — and that’s not the half of it
If You Missed the Debate, You're Not Out of Luck
Watch the archived stream here
Another Regional Initiative, This One for Zero-Emission Vehicles
An eight-state effort wants to help reduce pollution from the transportation sector, NJ’s biggest source of greenhouse-gas emissions
Next Steps for Improving New Jersey Nursing Board Operations
Munoz suggests following lead of Motor Vehicles and tying expirations to the license holder’s birth month — others argue larger systemic fixes are needed
State Pension Poised to Make First Investment in Infrastructure
Proposal would take an up to $125 million stake in fund managed by Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners
Opinion: Blue State Bottleneck — New Jersey and the GOP Tax Reform Plan
The Republicans have released a nine-page document for 'fixing our broken tax code.' Here’s what it really says
New Jersey Continues to Use Easily Hacked Voting Machines
The Garden State's voting machines aren’t simply hackable — they also leave no independently verifiable paper trail
Critics Say Chronic Problems in NJ Nursing Board Put Patients at Risk
Senator suggests need for ‘total overhaul’ in body that licenses and regulates 220,000 healthcare providers
State Senators on Both Sides of Aisle Vow to Fight Trump Plan to Kill SALT Deduction
Most of NJ’s congressional delegation vote against bill that would pave way to eliminating deducting for state and local taxes
Interactive Map: Tracking SALT Deductions Across the State
In some towns, write-offs for state and local taxes are about $1,500; in others, they can be more that $100,000. Regardless, the money can be very important
What’s in Store When New Brunswick PAC Opens Its Doors?
In the works for the $172M arts center: two theaters, rehearsal spaces, two floors of office space, 207 residential units …
Ballot Question Closer to Stop Raiding of Natural-Resources Damages
Lawmakers and environmentalists see constitutional amendment as only way to keep natural-resources settlements from being siphoned off
NJ Sues Opioid Manufacturer for Consumer Fraud that Put ‘Lives at Risk’
Attorney general accuses INSYS Therapeutics of ‘titanic greed’ for way it marketed highly addictive drug
PARCC Past, PARCC Present, and PARCC Future
Knowing where PARCC has been may help get a sense of where the online test is going
The Independents: New Jersey’s ‘Other’ Gubernatorial Candidates
Looking for an alternative to big-money politics and big-party candidates? Here are five of them
After Years of Urging, Christie Puts Barnegat Bay on Pollution Diet
Environmentalists approve the move, but some feel bay and aquatic life would be in better shape had he acted earlier, when he had the chance
Budget Basics: Surplus and Deficits — How Are They Computed?
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
NJ Public Pension Fund Returns Over 13 Percent, Outpacing Expectations
State expects to put $2.5 billion into pension system in 2018 fiscal year, still far short of what’s needed to restore it to good health
Op-Ed: New Jersey Is as Good for Amazon as Amazon Is for New Jersey
When Amazon considers New Jersey, it will already find talent, location, and play
Menendez Trial: Campaign Contributions Under Scrutiny
Prosecutors zero in on big checks that co-defendant wrote to senator’s re-election effort
DEP Wants Public Input on Spending NJ’s Share of VW Settlement
New Jersey is in line to get $72.2 million to help clean up air pollution in the transportation sector
NJ Minimum Wage Makes Minor Gain of 16 Cents an Hour
Advocates argue that $8.60 an hour, or $18,000 a year, isn't enough to live in Garden State
‘Greens’ Say Highlands Council Trying to Stifle Public Comment
Council says rules ensure that discussions on updated regional plan take place in public
Op-Ed: A Rising Tide in Camden — Continued School Progress
Key to the turnaround: strong leadership and continued hard work and commitment of students, teachers, parents, and administrators
Sibelius: Menendez Lobbied for Medicare Policy Change
NJ senator was trying to reverse a policy that was costing his friend millions of dollars in Medicare reimbursements
Reasons to Vote for New Jersey’s Next Governor
The governorship of the Garden State is one of the most powerful political jobs in the nation. Could that prod you to the polls on election day?
Key Trump Tax-Reform Proposal Is a Non-Starter, Says Republican Rep. Lance
New Jersey would be hit hard by the elimination of a federal deduction for state and local taxes, but bipartisan opposition is growing to any such change
In Wake of Mass Killing, Gubernatorial Candidates Talk Gun Control
Guadagno struggles to clarify her beliefs, Murphy offers eight-point platform on website. Independents’ opinions run gamut of possibilities
Murphy or Guadagno: There’s Likely RGGI in New Jersey’s Future
After six years on the outside, after being yanked by Gov. Christie, the Garden State is almost certain to rejoin regional initiative in near future
Rep. Pallone Re-Introduces Bill to Curb Sudden Cardiac Death in Students
Officials joined by family members of teen athletes lost to SCA
Op-Ed: Sink or Swim? Time for Serious Action on Climate in NJ
A comprehensive climate-action plan to cut greenhouse-gas emissions and reduce deadly air pollution may save New Jersey from being underwater — literally
Menendez Trial: He was ‘Aggressive’ and ‘Angry’
Former government official tells of senator’s temper during testy phone call
Many Immigrants with No Criminal Records Being Arrested in NJ
ICE is supposed to be focused on removing immigrants convicted of crimes, but that does not seem to be the case in New Jersey
The Delaware River Watershed: Protecting Today and Tomorrow
NJ Spotlight/State Impact PA event takes a closer look at resource that provides drinking water to millions
Will Trump Administration Give PSEG — Other Utilities — Nuclear Subsidies?
Letter to FERC says value of baseload plants that produce power all the time is not accurate reflection of their role
Budget Basics: Employee Retirement Benefits — the Problem Is Large
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
The List: Where Do Foreign Students Studying in New Jersey Call Home?
From Brazil to Vietnam, China to Turkey, some 26,000 men and women were in the Garden State on active student visas last year
Top Democratic Leaders Want Cops, Firefighters to Manage Their Own Pensions
Sweeney, Prieto gear up for another push to create new board for PFRS — the Police and Firemen’s Retirement System
Christie Appoints New Nursing Board Members
New members, reappointments come just one week before legislative hearing
Op-Ed: Cameras in the U.S. High Court — Not a Case of Sound-Bite Justice
Rather than cheapen the institution, cameras at the U.S. Supreme Court would allow the public to better appreciate the high-minded nature of a judicial argument
NJ Practice Leads Holistic Effort to Address Rising Renal Disease
Saint Barnabas works to reduce causes of kidney failure, create treatment options, and improve transplant success
Getting to 2030 Renewable Levels Without Going Broke
Aggressively ramping up renewable energy could help state halve carbon dioxide emissions from the power sector, new report asserts
Unauthorized Release of Report Turns Up Heat on Arbitration Cap Debate
Task force data seems to show that cap on salary growth for cops and firefighters may have saved property owners $530 million in taxes
Latest PARCC Results Released, But Fate of Tests After Elections Is Murky
Most recent scores show gains statewide, but proficiency levels in math and language arts don’t break 60 percent of test takers
Op-Ed: No Government Shutdown for Now, but Medicaid Remains at Risk
The fight to preserve Medicaid is far from over. In fact, it is just beginning
Menendez trial: Did He Threaten a Senate Hearing?
Prosecutors affirm that Sen. Menendez threatened to hold a Senate hearing to help his friend and co-defendant get what he wanted from Dominican Republic
Federal Funding for National Children’s Health Program Now at Risk
The clock is set to run out on the popular — and widely beneficial — CHIP program in just three days
Amazon Fever: NJ Could Offer $5B in Tax Breaks to Lure HQ2 to NJ
Lawmakers join in bipartisan push to ease restrictions that could have Seattle-based online retail giant looking elsewhere for a second home
Climate Change in New Jersey? It’s Here
Hotter summers, more extreme storms, increased flooding — a statewide dialogue hopes to hammer out a climate-change policy for the Garden State
Budget Basics: Property Tax — Can It Realistically Be Reduced?
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
Op-Ed: VW Settlement — an Opportunity for Environmental Justice
Dense urban centers in New Jersey suffer from multiple sources of air pollution and are home to significant minority and low-income populations
Menendez Trial Focuses on Intervention into Melgen Medicare Case
Government prosecutors call a high-powered witness to the stand
Climate-Change and Clean-Energy To-Do List for Next Governor
More than two dozen state leaders have prepared a plan to help next administration get right to work cleaning up New Jersey’s environment
Ad Watch: Do Gubernatorial Candidates Play Fast and Loose with the Truth?
Phil Murphy and Kim Guadagno stuff a lot of info into their 30-second TV spots. How much is on target?
Syphilis Uptick In Babies Prompts Statewide Awareness Campaign
Infants infected with syphilis can be stillborn or suffer from a range of neurological and physical problems
Menendez Prosecutors Press Port Security, Medicare Fraud
Defense argues that Menendez wasn’t just helping a friend, he had larger concerns about security
Gateway Official Says There’s ‘No Plan B’ if Federal Funding Falls Through
Rail tunnel isn’t just about commuters; 10 percent of country’s gross domestic product relies on aging infrastructure
Budget Basics: State Debt — Is It Too Much? Do We Need More?
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
Physicians Focus on the Links Between Poverty and Poor Health
Attention is also being paid to debates that are unrealistically focused on healthcare savings
Some Residents Will See Small Uptick in Heating Bills Next Month
New rates reflect generally rising costs of natural gas because of increased demand
NJ School Districts Asking Voters for $320M for Renovations and Repair
Projects in 15 districts range from windows and ceiling tiles to building expansion, high-tech installations, and enhancements to make schools world class
Op-Ed: Satellite Emergency Departments — Saving Time, Money, and Lives
SEDs are an idea whose time has come, but success means carefully considering several deployment issues, such as distance from and availability of medical resources
Federal Prosecutors Open New Front in Menendez Trial
U.S. Senator allegedly tried to help friend and co-defendant with contract
NJEA Flexes Its Muscles, Takes on Sweeney
The teachers union faults the Senate president for his stand on public-employee pensions and school funding — and they want to make him pay
Op-Ed: NJ’s Next Gov. Can Make a Real Difference on Climate Change
As we often hear, addressing climate change is a marathon, not a sprint. Achieving a 75 percent reduction in our emissions by 2050 means we need to get started now
Murphy Questions Why State Takeovers Target ‘Communities of Color’
Democratic hopeful for governor also talks about Paterson, another city where state is in control of local schools
New Jersey’s Solar Sector Is Thriving: Now Let’s Fix It
BPU to launch industry study, review if current structure has outlived its usefulness, should be replaced
Christie Pardons Former Heroin Addict with Criminal Past
Result of seven-year old process, pardon is latest move in his effort to reduce impact of drug use
New Jersey Nonprofit Helps Small Businesses Get a Jump Start
For more than a decade, Jersey City’s Rising Tide Capital has helped residents move from idea to going concern
Montclair’s Cloverhill Place Takes Pride in Its Diversity, Activism
The quiet, shaded street in Montclair doesn’t just have residents from different parts of the country, they’re from different parts of the world
$24.00
Mean hourly wage for construction workers in NJ
New Jersey Not on Target to Reach Greenhouse Gas Goal by 2050
New report says state lacks coherent, comprehensive strategy to significantly reduce carbon footprint by midcentury
Fatal Hoboken Train Crash 1 Year On: Questions Remain Despite New NTSB Data
Train engineer can’t remember last few seconds before crash, was severe sleep apnea the culprit?
Interactive Map: Charting the Rocky Terrain of Income Inequality in NJ
Census data for 2016 shows the median household income of blacks was, on average, little more than half that of non-Hispanic whites
Budget Basics: How Large Is the New Jersey Budget, Really?
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
Primary-Care Advocates Seek to Steer Clear of ‘Fiscal Cliff’
Garden State callers dominated Congressional hotline to support FQHCs
For These New Jersey Voters, Washington Trumps the Governor’s Race
Although they seem unable to agree on anything else, these West Orange neighbors all say they’ll cast a ballot this November
State Drafts Settlements in Three Longstanding Pollution Lawsuits
Critics contend state is pushing to settle decade-old cases now, before possible constitutional amendment blocks funds from being diverted
New Obamacare Overhaul Could Cost NJ Billions, Leave More Patients Uninsured
Cassidy-Graham proposal called ‘harshest’ GOP plan yet to reform national healthcare
Long Valley Neighbors Find Accord and Affinity Across Party Lines
It’s more than just agreeing to disagree, this group of residents has thought through the candidate’s promises and proposals to find some surprising common ground
Poll: Tuition-Free Community College — Smart Move or Dumb Mistake?
Under the ‘Murphy plan,’ students get a free ride at NJ’s two-year schools. Guadagno says the middle class will wind up footing the bill
Are Democrats Dragging Their Feet on Arbitration Cap for Cops, Firefighters?
Republicans argue if interest arbitration cap is allowed to expire, salary increases won by public-safety employees could mushroom
Op-Ed: Newark’s Long Road to Local Control of Schools — Where Will It Lead?
Even as Newark may be poised to resume local control, it's not clear how many schools will be returned and whether state operation actually has built greater local capacity to govern them
At Menendez Trial, Attention Turns to What Senator Didn’t Do
According to prosecution, Sen. Menendez failed to file financial disclosure forms for almost $60,000
Retooling and Reviving New Jersey’s Manufacturing Heritage
Manufacturing is a $40 billion industry sector, but a bipartisan ‘manufacturing caucus’ wants to take it higher
Just Say ‘No Subsidies for Nukes,’ New Jersey Voters Affirm
Regardless of party, voters strongly oppose paying to keep nuclear plants up and running, despite tough competition from natural gas
Budget Basics: Where the State Gets Its Money (part 2)
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
Opinion: Doing the Murphy Math — Taxing Millionaires Won’t Cut It
Dragging the Christie anchor behind her, Guadagno can’t get any traction when it comes to warning voters what her rival’s programs could cost
Governor Commits Extra $200M to Anti-Addiction Programs
‘Lapsed dollars’ in state coffers will fund new programs and expand existing ones in an effort to reduce drug addiction in New Jersey
More than Skin Deep: Structural Racism and Poverty in New Jersey
Ingrained policies and structures keep blacks and Hispanics from succeeding economically, politically, and personally, new report argues
The NYPD Will Neither Confirm, Nor Deny, the Stories Behind This Story
A group of activists is lobbying for details of possible NYPD surveillance of them, including at the Newark campus of Rutgers University
Colleges, Universities in NJ Urged to Make Strategic Plan
Higher education in Garden State is bedeviled by duplication, over-capacity, and ‘there’s really too much competition,’ professor says
Murphy Calls for Free Tuition at Community College, but at What Price?
Guadagno dings rival for panoply of expensive proposals, saying they’ll hit the middle class, not just millionaires and hedge-fund managers
Christie Outlines Federal Partnership with Pharma to Combat U.S. Opioid Epidemic
White House panel led by governor wants to curb addiction crisis with sweeping effort that will include expedited development of nonaddictive pain treatments
Appellate Court’s Reversal of Public Utility Tax Policy Could Mean Lower Bills
Court rules on BPU’s failure to follow rulemaking process, remains silent on merits of consolidated income tax returns
The List: The 10 Longest Commutes for NJ’s Largest Municipalities
Getting to work takes more time than ever before. Is the Garden State in danger of becoming the gridlock state?
Op-Ed: Atlantic City and the American Dream 2.0
As a second-home market, the city delivers everything from sizzling nightlife to world-class beaches — at a hard-to-beat price
Frelinghuysen Says He’s Got Clout and It’s Good for New Jersey
Congressman’s critics dispute his record, say his promotion of Republican agenda is damaging to Garden State
Menendez Bribery Trial Taking Toll with Voters
Half the participants in recent poll think New Jersey senator does not deserve a second term
Federal Health Centers Face Fiscal Cliff, Plus New Challenges
Clinics that traditionally care for poorest residents are weeks away from possible 70-percent cut in key federal funding stream
Local Control of Camden Schools Not on a Fast Track
Mayor, superintendent say schools have improved since state took over the district but obstacles to autonomy remain
Opinion: Amazon and Newark Perfect Together?
Why New Jersey’s largest city should make a serious bid to become site of e-commerce giant’s second North American headquarters
Delaware River Watershed: It's Healthy, but Significant Threats Are Looming
Vital resource for millions of people needs more aggressive protections, advocates contend
Tax Relief for Hurricane Victims with Financial Ties to New Jersey
NJ Treasury officials follow IRS lead, extend filing deadlines for those hit by Harvey, Irma who have financial links with Garden State
Second Pinelands Pipeline OK’d at Tempestuous Agency Meeting
Also on the Pinelands Commission agenda: restricting use of off-road vehicles in nature preserve
Budget Basics: Where the State Gets Its Money (part 1)
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
Why Doesn’t Guadagno’s Message of Tax Relief Resonate with Voters?
She suggests voters still need time to get to know her, but some pundits argue her long association with Chris Christie is hurting her chances
NJ Hospitals Collaborate to Reduce Unnecessary CT Scans of Kids’ Brains
Concern over cancer risk prompts Hospital Association campaign and public outreach
Corruption Probe Catches Up to Jersey Democrat Who Backed Christie
State Election Law Enforcement Commission allowed to pursue complaint that Essex County Executive, Joe DiVincenzo, used campaign funds for personal expenses
As Newark Prepares to Take Control of Schools, Former Superintendent Looks Back
Marion Bolden, who served as state-appointed super from 1999 to 2008, puts the move in perspective
Census Data Shows Median Income Climbs in NJ, But Wage Disparity Remains High
Median household income rose by almost 4 percent, poverty dipped slightly, but activists say New Jersey is still too costly for many
Job No. 1 for Next Governor? NJ’s Transportation Infrastructure
High-level policy recommendations, priorities, and projects all part of report prepared for Christie’s successor
Coalition Hopes to Usher in Era of Electric Vehicles in New Jersey
Ambitious ‘roadmap’ wants to see 300,000 plug-in vehicles on the road by 2025; 2 million by 2035
Brave New World for Newark Schools as State Cedes Control
With one struggle ended, politicians, educators, advocates, and parents look to new challenges
Booker Among U.S. Senators to Announce ‘Medicare for All’ Plan
Single-payer plan crafted by VT Sen. Sanders pitched as ‘next step’ after ACA
Delaware River Basin Commission Moves Ahead on Rules to Ban Fracking
Environmentalist greet ban with approval, but are less pleased with regulations that will address how fracking wastewater will be disposed of in the region
Algorithm, Key to NJ Bail Reform, Has Both Supporters and Detractors
Advocates of new system say the numbers show it’s working but it’s already the subject of lawsuits
Tax Facts: Getting Beyond All the Talk About New Jersey’s Taxes
More taxes, no new taxes, higher taxes, marijuana taxes, corporate taxes, tax relief, and even a new tax structure — it’s definitely an election year in the Garden State
Budget Basics: How New Jersey Spends Your Money
A series that details the fundamentals of New Jersey's budget, as well as its current budget woes
Online Tools to Compare Hospice Care in New Jersey
More than half the hospice programs in New Jersey are ranked above average, according to a website just launched by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
More People Pick Up Health Insurance in Wake of ACA
NJ and other ‘expansion states’ show strongest gains, but current uncertainty about the future of Obamacare has slowed sign-ups in some states
Sunny Outlook for NJ’s Solar Sector, Which Continues to Add Capacity
One possible shadow on horizon: changes to the way state promotes this form of reusable energy
Op-Ed: How Trump Can Help Families with High Cost of Childcare
The details of President Donald Trump’s childcare plan suggest it will mostly benefit high-earning, dual-income households
Menendez Bribery Trial: Day Four Is All About the Visas
Not all plain sailing for prosecutors when they put two reputed girlfriends of senator’s co-accused on the stand
DRBC Acts to Ban Fracking in Delaware River Basin
But environmentalists unhappy with move to regulate fracking wastewater
New Jersey Funds Project to Improve End-of-Life Care
Seeks to reduce unnecessary Medicare costs, improve quality of patients’ final days, or weeks, or months, or even years
Beach Replenishment Moves Ahead After Homeowners’ Challenge Rebuffed
Bay Head decision is one more boost for the Christie administration’s push to engineer wider beaches and dunes all along the state’s 127-mile ocean coast
Explainer: Why NJ’s Cap on Raises for Cops and Firefighters Is Set to Expire
So-called interest-arbitration awards hold salary increases that go to binding arbitration at 2 percent. What happens to local communities if they’re allowed to sunset?
Lesniak, 'Greens' Tell Court $225M Exxon Settlement with State Way Too Small
Senator argues that deal gives New Jersey three cents on the dollar instead of billions of dollars in damages
Latest Teacher Evaluations Show Progress in ‘Effective’ Educators
AchieveNJ also notes that too many high ratings might mean missed opportunities for ‘coaching’ and ‘training’
Does New Jersey Have a Shot at Being Home to Amazon’s HQ2?
The e-commerce giant is looking for a home for its second corporate headquarters. Newark, Jersey City, and New Brunswick say they have what it takes
State Hosts Suicide Prevention Conference to Reduce Stigma, Save Lives
Nonprofit organizations also at work on the ground in schools, camps, clubs
State Looks to Spark Debate on Electric Vehicles, Infrastructure
Among questions being asked by BPU, how can state build requisite infrastructure and how long will it take
Op-Ed: On Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Me
Sometimes lost in the big picture are the personal tragedies that are very much a part of extreme weather
Interactive Map: How Cuts to Federal Funds Will Hurt NJ's School Districts
A reduction in federal funds would be felt by all districts; some would bear up, but others would be devastated
Bipartisan Delegation from NJ, NY Pitch President Trump on Gateway Tunnel Project
But administration offers no indication to governors, senators, and representatives if it will help pick up tab for ‘nation’s most important infrastructure project’
PSE&G Gets Sign-Off to Extend Energy Efficiency Programs
State’s largest utility looks to help hospitals, multifamily units, and government buildings cut power and gas bills, while offering new options to residential accounts
CarePoint Health and Horizon Settle $76 Million Billing Dispute
Agreement adds three more Hudson County hospitals to insurer’s massive network
Op-Ed: Individual Donors — the Engine that Drives American Charity
Experience shows that when all sources are factored in, the total from individual donors actually accounts for close to 90 percent of all charitable giving
NJ Transit to Spend $185M on Train Storage Site that Critics Find Wanting
NJT boss says new facility is necessary, but detractors say it’s located in a flood plain and should not be funded ahead of other priorities
Prison Re-entry Group Outlines Blueprint to Benefit Former Inmates
Former Gov. McGreevey and other ex-execs offer blueprint for economic, health gains
Is New Jersey Finally Getting Smarter About Smart Meters?
BPU authorizes Rockland Electric to deploy smart meters in homes of 74,000 customers, a first for a Garden State utility
Business Leaders Say Find Fixes for NJ’s Financial Woes Before It’s Too Late
Pointing to recent lack of substantive legislation, members of business community argue that high taxes and underfunded pension system aren’t taking a summer break
Opinion: The Time is Now for Drinking Water Utilities to Improve Their Systems
The Water Quality Accountability Act is a major first step toward a statewide system of effective asset management for our drinking water utilities
Lesniak to Bow Out of Senate when Term Ends — but Not Out of Politics
One of the senior members of NJ Senate, Lesniak forms 501(c)4 to continue to advocate for progressive causes
Menendez Corruption Trial Begins, Could Take Several Weeks
Prosecutor says senator ‘sold his office,’ defense attorney says there was no crime, just friendship
New Jersey’s ‘Dreamers’ Speak Out on Trump’s Plan to Dump DACA
Undocumented immigrants who have called Garden State home their entire lives now threatened with being sent back to their ‘native’ countries
Unsafe Lead Levels Found in Drinking Water at 400 NJ Schools
Results confirm lead leaching from old fixtures and pipes is extensive problem facing state’s district and charter schools
At First Day of School, Newark Also Celebrates Soon-to-End State Control
Mayor Baraka and state-appointed superintendent Cerf both acknowledge significant gains district has made in past few years
NJ Seeks Public Input on Plan to Reorganize Addiction, Mental Health Services
State to host 21 ‘town-hall’ meetings, plus hearings at state hospitals to review DMHAS shift
Op-Ed: Immigrant Detention — NJ's Shameful Growth Industry
Private prisons and some of New Jersey’s county jails profit quite handsomely from an inhumane immigration detention system
Spotlight on New Jersey’s Gubernatorial and Legislative Races
Summer may be coming to an end, but the fall campaign season is just starting to heat up. Here’s look at key candidates and ballot questions
Back-to-School Special: Policy, Politics, and the Upcoming Elections
Education always plays a big part in New Jersey politics, but this year it’s going to be an even more critical factor thanks to the gubernatorial race
Trump’s EPA Cuts Could Wreak Havoc with Delaware River Watershed
Water-related programs at federal agency could be trimmed by almost 35 percent, affecting host of efforts in place to protect water quality
Lowering Financial Bar for Medical Providers Who Want to Practice in NJ
Tuition reimbursement, access to unemployment benefits aim to recruit and retain caregivers
Opinion: How Left of Center Would Murphy’s New Jersey Be?
A millionaire’s tax and closing corporate loopholes are pretty much a given, but what about legalizing pot and putting tighter gun control in place?
Taxing and Regulating Fantasy Sports Means Real Revenues for NJ
Besides translating into millions of much-needed dollars, new rules also put in place much-needed consumer protections
Summer Reading 2017: An Unexpected Friendship in a Changing World
Two young women who — at least on the surface — couldn’t be more different strike up a friendship that in many ways reflects the changes sweeping South Korea
Summer Reading 2017: Poetry with a Take-No-Prisoners Attitude
Masterful poems that fragment and remake autobiography, rock and roll, English and American literary history, and a lesson in snake handling
Summer Reading 2017: ‘Ethnoburbs’ — Where Suburbs Meet Melting Pot
As immigrants establish themselves economically in some communities, one result can be the hardening of lines between ethnic groups
Summer Reading 2017: Grappling with the Suicide of a Gifted Young Woman
Unwavering in its gaze and unsentimental in its telling, ‘What Made Maddy Run’ explores some of the darkest aspects of mental illness and young people
Summer Reading 2017: Betting on Gambling to Transform Atlantic City
When the resort city become home to the first legal casinos outside of Nevada, it signaled a change that would ultimately sweep through the gaming industry
Summer Reading 2017: Pursuing a Penchant for Helping People
Ousted from the corporate world, Jessie DeSalvo knows what she wants to do, but figuring out how to get it is a bit trickier
Summer Reading 2017: Inside Story of Ultimate Frisbee — Spin-Free
How a ragtag band of high-school students started a sport that has a pro league and nearly 5 million participants worldwide
Summer Reading 2017: A Family Under Fire at the Turning Point of World War II
A gripping story of the search to find the youngest brother of a family whose other sons are also under fire in the Pacific Theatre of the Second World War
Summer Reading 2017: The Hard Truth About Soft Corruption and NJ
The Garden State is known for many things. Unfortunately, soft corruption — legal influence peddling — is one of them
Summer Reading 2017: Poor Richard’s Gifted, Gallant, Illegitimate Son
William Franklin started out life with many of the gifts that others might regard with envy — including a brilliant, powerful, protective father
Immigration Crackdown Reaches Deep into New Jersey Communities
New data reveals that more than 90 percent of the state’s municipalities have cases pending in immigration court, the fifth-largest caseload in the country
NJ Strives to Stay Ahead in Transportation, Logistics, and Distribution
Automation, online tracking, drone delivery, and robotics are among topics and skill sets the state wants education system to help tomorrow’s workers to master
The Long Goodbye: State Board Plans Newark Exit Strategy
With demonstrable progress made — and most of the rancor laid to rest — Newark prepares to resume local control
Feds Award NJ $70M to Upgrade Wastewater, Drinking-Water Systems
Allocation will help finance $500 million in upgrades to sewage-treatment plants through the New Jersey Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
Nursing Home Volunteers Play Large Role in State’s Eldercare Advocacy
Some 250 individuals statewide advocate for seniors in nursing homes, help educate them about their rights, and sometimes just lend a sympathetic ear
Immigrant, Muslim and Voting Republican in New Jersey
A Democratic supporter for the past two presidential elections, Levent Koch believes gubernatorial candidate Kim Guadagno can clean up corruption
Join the Voting Block: Host your Own Political Potluck
Find out what matters to you and your neighbors this November
Offshore-Wind True Believers Remain Optimistic About New Jersey
The state’s industry sector needs to be brought back to life, and that will take a new administration — for starters
ACA Uncertainties Could Mean Fewer Eligible People Enrolling
Patient advocates sound alarm, saying policy stability and continued federal support are essential
Profile: National Advocate for Public Schools Says Stakes Are High
Kevin Ciak, only the second New Jerseyan to lead the National School Boards Association, believes that public education is central ‘to our country’s future and stability’
Moody's Says NJ Still a Gamble, Despite Pension Fund Tapping Lottery Revenues
Credit-rating agency also warns of difficulties servicing growing pension payments, but does not reduce state’s A3 ranking
Christie Administration Opposes Trump Plan to Drill in Atlantic
In letter to federal agency, DEP Commissioner Martin says NJ wants no part of program to expand oil and gas exploration in North and Mid-Atlantic
‘I Can’t Vote, But My Daughter Can’ — Immigrant Family Has Political Goals
An undocumented immigrant, Rossana Madiera can still make her voice heard on Election Day
Op-Ed: New Business Model for NJ Department of Transportation
Helping build communities through transportation instead of transportation through communities
Trump Weakens Protections for Buildings in Flood-Prone Areas
Executive order rescinds rules intended to safeguard government-financed projects against sea-level rise, climate change
With Vo-Techs Turning away Students, Lawmakers Consider Bond Issue
Referendum is likely a year off, but manufacturers are already saying they have more job openings than skilled workers, adding urgency to the initiative
The List: Tallying Up the Top 10 Counties with Jobs in the Tourism Industry
New Jersey is home to more than 500,000 tourist-related jobs, and they don’t all involve sun and fun in the Shore counties
Healthcare Savings Tied to Healthy Food, New Data Demonstrates
Food stamps do more than help seniors stave off hunger, they also help them avoid hospitals and nursing homes
Voting Block: NJ Couple Continues Lifetime of Activism in Chinese Community
Margaret Lam and David Yen are partners in community, politics, and life
Op-Ed: Why NJ Should Integrate Mental, Physical, Behavioral Healthcare
State’s plan to put mental health and addiction services under DOH control will ‘improve the well-being of the people of New Jersey’
Obamacare Uncertainty Could Drive Up Marketplace Healthcare Costs in 2018
Reinstated premium tax could also add hundreds to individual premium prices
Renewed Calls for Monitor After 2 Deaths at Hudson County Jail
Advocates claim inadequate medical care led to death of Rolando Espinoza, an immigrant detainee
It’s No Jackpot, But Online Gambling Tax Contributes Millions to NJ's Coffers
Although tax revenue from Internet gaming has not met some supporters’ projections, it’s becoming a reliable source of cash for the state’s annual budget
Renewed Threat of Oil and Gas Drilling off New Jersey Shoreline
Administration seeks to develop program to open all the nation’s coasts to exploration along outer continental shelf
Opinion: Real Property-Tax Reform Is Guadagno's Only Real Chance
If Guadagno wants to break the chains that bind her, she must give voters what they want, not more namby-pamby policies that won’t upset the status quo
PennEast Wants Fast-Track Approval from FERC for $1B Pipeline
Company argues project is ‘critically important’ to bring new and necessary natural-gas supplies to Northeast, increase reliability of today’s pipeline grid
State Board Issues Guidelines for Social and Emotional Education …
… and NJ Spotlight speaks with Rutgers’ Maurice Elias, international leader in emotional intelligence, school success, and character development
Sales of Electric Plug-In Vehicles Surge, Though Infrastructure Still Lags
With more than 10,000 plug-ins on the road in New Jersey, sales grew by 79 percent over prior year
Comptroller to Apprise Governor, Lawmakers on Follow-Up Audits
New law calls for comptroller to report on how public agencies have responded to major audits and loop legislators and state’s chief exec in on the results
State Poison Center Reports Spike in Mushroom Poisonings
Experts increase warnings, caution against eating any wild mushrooms, even if they have been ‘identified’ as safe
Op-Ed: Modernize Contracts Laws for NJ’s State Colleges, Universities
The rules public four-year colleges and universities follow to buy goods and services, or erect a building, depend on how the institution is categorized under the law
Charting Student Loan Debt Across the Garden State
Which New Jersey students leave school with the most debt? Which are carrying the least?
Call to Reopen Hagedorn Psych Hospital to Relieve Crowding at Other Facilities
Staffing and training questions prompt concerns about unsafe conditions at Greystone Park
State Needs to Step Up Attempts to Curb Greenhouse-Gas Emissions
In rare meeting of both legislative environmental committees, lawmakers get a tough assessment of what New Jersey needs to do to fight climate change
Opinion: The Essence of ESSA: the Good, the Bad, the Meh
A wonk-free assessment of the Every Student Succeeds Act and how it can refocus discussions about New Jersey schools onto more accurate rankings of quality and achievement
Planning for Trans-Hudson Tunnel Chugs Ahead with Release of Draft EIS
Troubling questions about financing remain to be answered, but the tunnel is anything but stalled
White House Opioid Commission Report Echoes NJ Anti-Addiction Efforts
Gov. Christie said president welcomed recommendations, but Trump still mum on details
Will Affordable-Housing Decision Be Derailed by Judge’s Ties to Developer?
Judge ruled South Brunswick must build 3,000 units of affordable housing, but township wants decision set aside due to ‘appearance of impropriety’
Afghan Who Helped U.S. Troops is Now Detained in New Jersey
Detainee says, 'I want the world to know I am here for education, and I’m here to work.'
Union Goes to Court to Block Christie’s Changes to State Cybersecurity
The CWA, the largest union of state workers, is challenging governor’s reorganization of information technology department
New Jersey One of Few States to Win Approval of Fed Education Plan
Garden State’s accountability and monitoring plans center on supporting specific student groups, moving beyond testing to gauge school performance
NJ’s Farmland Preservation Initiatives Get Much-Needed Funding
A package of four bills dedicates $65 million to help towns, counties, the state, and nonprofits put money into protecting farmland
Does Tepid Growth in Personal Income Mean NJ's Recovery Not that Hot?
Personal income in Garden State has only grown 1 percent a year since late in 2007, when Great Recession started, trailing national rate of 1.7 percent for same period
Law Caps Size of Student Loans to Keep Them from Overburdening Borrowers
Goal is to put a check on HESAA, which has come in for criticisms of its ‘predatory’ lending practices
NJ Takes Steps to Expand Medical Marijuana Program
New dispensary, more eligible conditions expected later this year
DEP Denies Permits for 1,800-Unit Housing Development in Lakewood
Chosen site, a former golf course, would wind up with 70 percent impervious cover once project was complete — markedly increasing stormwater runoff
NJ Leads Nation with Plan to Curb Two Toxic Chemicals in Drinking Water
Department of Environmental Protection announces new proposed maximum contaminant limits for two likely carcinogens, PFNA and TCP
Peggy’s Law Enacted to Better Protect Elderly Nursing Home Residents
Law requires police to be notified within hours of suspected abuse — or staff must make 911 call if situation is an emergency
With FERC at Quorum, PennEast Pipeline Likely to Move Ahead
Two commissioners have been approved at agency, opening way for project to use eminent domain to gather environmental data along its route
Law on Drinking Water Infrastructure Requires Upgrades of Leaking Systems
Measure mostly targets smaller, publicly owned utilities that may have to scramble to find the money to implement asset-management plans, cybersecurity
Top Court Ruling, New Legislation Raise Profile of Fire Districts Across NJ
Supreme Court supplies a little heat by deciding fire districts are subject to OPRA, while law lets districts move elections into November, in hopes of boosting voter turnout
Op-Ed: The Garden State is Fighting the State of Diabetes
Diabetes is not just an individual disease; it has municipal-level ramifications, especially where there are fewer opportunities for active living and healthy food access
Greater Oversight for Residential Facilities Serving Disabled Residents
Assembly adopts governor’s tweaks to ‘Komninos’ Law’; Senate likely to follow suit
Appeals Court Approves Housing Development in Highlands
Court defers to DEP’s expertise regarding wetlands, endangered species, and impact of proposed sewer connection on water quality
NJEA PAC Announces Its Picks for 2017 Legislative Races
While typically true blue, Democratic-leaning union makes some GOP exceptions, and withholds endorsement for Sweeney and Ruiz
Opinion: Appellate Court Decision a SLAPP in the Face of Smart Growth
The Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation suit filed in Walmart case overwhelms — and silences — its opponents with arcane, hard-to-prove damage claims
New Jersey and Data-Driven Innovation: Imperfect Together
Garden State just squeaks into top half of states doing good job encouraging and enabling use of new data technologies, digital infrastructure
Amtrak Says Penn Station Repairs Likely to End Soon After Labor Day
Upgrades right on schedule, agency says, but there might be more work needed after summer is over that could affect NJ Transit commuters
2 Maplewood Cops Put on Leave After Possible Bias Incident
Videotape allegedly shows black teens ‘herded like cattle’ to town border after July 4 celebration
With a New Jersey E-ZPass It’s E-Z to Pay Higher Tolls in New York City
They may think they’re getting a discount, but drivers with New Jersey-based EZ-Pass accounts are paying the same rate as cash customers at many NYC bridges and tunnels
Never Too Early to Plan a House Race in 3 Targeted Republican Districts
Democrats are already gearing up to take on Frelinghuysen, Lance, and MacArthur, but are their efforts strategic planning or wishful thinking?
EPA Reverses Decision Not to Implement Smog Rule
Federal agency announces it will move ahead with Obama administration rule on ground-level ozone, aka smog
Federal Delegation Secures Extra Funding for Rural Hospitals in NJ
Seventeen hospitals in ‘urban’ state will share $36.5 million to support critical providers
Op-Ed: State Legislature Opts for ‘Beachgate’ Rather Than Coming Beach Crisis
Enacting a law to keep governor off the beach in case of another government shutdown makes for good PR, but ignores the real problem with the Jersey Shore
Administration Alerts Districts About Qualifying for $25M in New Pre-K Funds
Department of Education says money is meant for 100+ districts with high concentrations of poor families
State Wants Hospitals to Follow Stricter Financial Transparency Standards
New regulations would go beyond voluntary measures outlined in 2014 DOH report
Coalition Dismisses PSEG’s Threat to Close Nuclear Units as a ‘Scare Tactic’
New group of businesses, consumer advocates, and environmentalists says company must open its books and prove they're losing money on nuclear
Extending Real-World Fiduciary Protection to ‘Digital Assets’
Online financial tools, virtual currencies, even email and social-media accounts can ‘outlive’ their owners — and that can be a serious problem
Reasons Justifying Pinelands Pipeline Called into Question
‘A high-priced solution for a problem that does not really exist’ is how consultant to Pinelands Preservation Alliance describes Southern Reliability Link
NJ’s Top Court Rules Pay Increases May Stay in Effect After Contracts Expire
NJ high court says contracts can specify annual increases to be paid beyond the term of the contract itself
Getting to Know You: Meet the New State Board of Education
With different leadership in place and six new members, the board is as close to a full house as it has been for some time
Margate to U.S. Army Corps: Get off Our Beach!
Residents are angry, board of commissioners votes to sue corps for unpopular dune-building project that has resulted in pools of standing water
Amazon’s ‘Virtual’ Success Drives Job and Real Estate Markets in NJ
The giant online retailer said it would fill 1,500 full- and part-time jobs in New Jersey — in a single day
As Newark Grows, Tenants Want Better Rent Control
Housing advocates seek to put more stringent rent ordinance on the November ballot
New Planning Chief’s Vision of Jersey City’s Future
Newly appointed planning director envisages development of all kinds, not one-size-fits-all
Port Authority Shakeup: What Will Future of Agency Look Like with Degnan Gone?
Former NJ Sen. O’Toole named as new chairman, but with two major projects underway, this is a critical time at Port
The Battle of Bayonne: Turf Wars Over Satellite Emergency Departments
Two hospital systems seek to expand coverage, tap underserved communities in Hudson County
Can Congress Help NJ’s Offshore Wind Industry Get Cranking?
Bipartisan legislation that would extend tax credits for investments in the renewable energy could give state’s efforts at offshore wind a lift
State’s Top Court Rules Witnesses Not Required at Pretrial Hearings
In a move to further refine New Jersey’s criminal justice reform, Supreme Court says prosecution doesn’t have to call witnesses to determine if accused can be held in jail
Voting Block: When a Candidate for Governor Drops by a Block Party
Phil Murphy finds himself among friends at this cookout, but he still has to explain his policies and beliefs
Christie-Led Opioid Commission Wants Trump to Declare National Emergency
Interim report recommends more treatment options, stopping flow of fentanyl, better interstate data-sharing
Newark’s Plan for Ironbound District Worries Some Residents
Locals wonder who’s going to benefit from the surge of new development — developers or the community?
Democratic Leaders Push Christie To Fill 6 Vacant Seats on NJ Nursing Board
State says vacancies aren’t affecting board function, industry strength, or patient care
Appellate Court Upholds Decision to Build Solar Farm in Pinelands
Court rules in favor of facility on capped landfill, even though site had been permanently set aside as undeveloped open space
NJ Legislators Address Leftover Business from Budget Shutdown
Getting back pay to state workers sidelined by impasse is top priority, but avoiding another Beachgate by keeping future governors off shuttered state property is also in the works
Mother of Murder Victim Sues to End NJ’s Criminal Justice Reform
June Rodgers’ lawsuit — which names Christie, AG Porrino and others — claims bail reform put son’s killer on the street, even though he was a repeat offender
Solar Eclipse Won’t Leave New Jersey Without Lights, Power
Up to 2,500 megawatts of solar generation will be temporarily affected by the eclipse, but grid operator has plenty of power in reserve
Synagogues Show Solidarity with Detained Immigrants on Holy Day
Holy day reminds Jews what it is like to be exiles, to be strangers in a strange land
Shrinking School Districts in NJ a Sign of Millennial Shift?
Out-migration and a move toward urban areas account for changing enrollment numbers in many New Jersey school districts
PSE&G Poised to Invest $69M in Energy-Efficiency Program
But state’s largest utility could spend much more, if allowed to decouple sales from distribution
Pallone, Other Congressional Dems Offer GOP Aid with ACA Reform
‘Skinny repeal’ fails to squeak by, opening opportunities for Democrats and Republicans to work together on national healthcare
Thaw for Senior Freeze Property-Tax Relief Frozen Out of 2018 Budget
Many NJ seniors won’t qualify for property-tax reimbursement because program was capped at $70K following Great Recession — and that’s where the cap remains
Christie Airs ‘Meme’ Pain, Assesses Trump’s Latest Twitter Storm
On monthly radio show, governor says viral spread of ‘Beachgate’ photos hurt his family
Two NJ Groups Awarded Grants to Study Opioid Addiction in Women
Recent report from CDC shows opioid deaths for women spiked 471 percent between 1999 and 2015
RWJ Barnabas Health, Rutgers Partner to Improve Clinical Care, Healthcare Ed
Long-term agreement designed to attract new research funding and top medical talent
Interactive Map: Teacher, Administrative Salaries Edge Higher Across the State
The lowest average salaries for teachers and other education professionals tend to be found in charters and small, elementary school districts
State’s New Ways to Pay into Public-Pension System ‘Huge Step in Right Direction’
Starting this month, New Jersey’s chronically underfunded public pensions are going to benefit from Lottery funds as well as from more regular payments by the state
Opinion: There’s No Getting Away from Nuclear on Way to a Carbon-Free Future
Nuclear power is dangerous and dirty in its own way, but without it utilities are going to resort to fossil fuels to back up renewables
PSE&G Wants to Spend $2.7B to Replace Aging Gas Infrastructure
Five-year program would cost $540M annually, install 1,250 miles of new gas mains all told
If You Build a Warehouse in New Jersey, They Will Come…
Location, infrastructure help Garden State become a growing hub for storage and distribution of products. The industry accounts for 11 percent of job growth in the Garden State since 2016
Fed Rollback of Clean Water Rule Could Threaten Half of NJ’s Streams
Repeal could ‘devastate’ Delaware River Basin, according to critics, source of drinking water for 6 million people
Candidates for Governor Name Their Running Mates … But Does It Matter?
Pollsters say people tend to vote the top of the ticket. Besides, a lieutenant governor can be low profile to the point of invisibility
Putting the Latest PARCC Results in Perspective
More New Jersey students are passing the online exams, but are enough of them attaining the top scores?
New Funds for Tobacco Prevention Programs Likely in 2018
Christie’s conditional veto opens door to new anti-smoking revenue stream
Grid Operator OKs PSE&G’s $275M Substation Upgrade
Plan calls for utility to build new facility adjacent to 60-year-old Newark Switch substation
‘We Can’t Drink Gas’ — Critic of Controversial Pinelands Pipeline
Protesters let Pinelands Commission know how strongly they feel about contentious natural gas project in South Jersey
Rooting out Jersey Shore Invader: Asiatic Sand Sedge
Volunteers work to keep an invasive species from overrunning the delicate dunes along New Jersey’s seashore
Assembly May Move to Block Christie’s ‘Summer Surprise’
Joint legislative hearing reveals widespread concerns about governor’s plan to shift addiction, mental health services
Fed Flood Program Has Spent $660M Repeatedly Rebuilding Same NJ Properties
A much-needed reform to nation’s flood insurance would give homeowners the option to be bought out rather than rebuild
NJ Assemblyman Calls Christie's Secret Bridgegate Lawyer a 'Serious Breach'
Wisniewski questions why Christie, who was preparing to run for president at the time, hid Wray's public job as the governor's criminal attorney
Opinion: Senate President Sweeney — Poised on the Cusp of Power
The Democratic leader has gone toe to toe with the NJEA on school funding — and bested it. A likely Murphy victory would put him in a position of undeniable strength
Legislators Go Only Part Way to Help Those Struggling with Student Loans
Progress has definitely been made, but a loan rehabilitation program for those in default seems to have been abandoned
On the Record with Arcelio Aponte, New President of State Board of Ed
In his second stint in the top slot, look for Aponte to advocate for PARCC, push to lift state controls on Newark and Jersey City
Running Mates: Oliver is Murphy’s Pick, Rendo Likely as Guadagno’s
Former Assembly Speaker brings political experience to Democratic gubernatorial ticket, Cuban-born Republican mayor seen as appealing to Hispanic voters
‘Greens’ Intensify Efforts to Permanently Ban Fracking in Delaware River Basin
Coalition delivers 64K signatures to five-member commission tasked with protecting source of drinking water for 16 million people
NJ’s Top Court Rules Horizon Must Divulge Details of ‘Secret’ OMNIA Plan
Decision suggests Appellate Division overstepped in protecting Horizon’s privacy regarding its Omnia tiered insurance network
Christie's Hiring of FBI Nominee as Bridgegate Attorney Raises Questions
Wray represented Christie for 11 months before signing mandatory retainer agreement
One for the Books: $125M Library Bond Issue on November Ballot
If the bond sale is approved, it will be the first sizable chunk of money NJ libraries have gotten since $45M grant program almost 20 years ago
Christie’s CV of Family Leave Bill ‘Guts’ Expanded Program, Critics Claim
Advocates look to next governor for approval; one pol dismisses governor’s veto message as ‘more snark than fact’
Op-Ed: Investing in NJ’s Prison Labor Programs Is Investing in the Future
These programs are not just a way to get cheap goods, they are unique opportunities to economically empower underserved populations
Prescription Database Helps Police Bust Physician-Led Opiate Ring
Trade on ‘Oxy Highway’ slowed as state limit on addictive pain prescriptions kicked in
By 2030, State Looks to Reduce Food Waste by 50 Percent
Keeping food waste out of dumps and landfills can help reduce methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming
Time to Take Another Crack at Closing the State’s Budget Gap?
Consensus forecasting, according to advocates, could eliminate the ‘April surprise’ that sends the state scrambling to make up funds when tax collection projections don’t match reality
Westwood Voters to Gubernatorial Candidates: ‘You’re Not Listening to Me’
Disenfranchised and disconnected from their representatives, these NJ residents want to be heard
Menendez, Pallone Hit the Beach to Help Protect NJ’s Water
In face of potential cuts from Trump administration, senator and congressman drum up support for a stronger BEACH Act, which pays for water testing nationwide
Job Initiatives Help Steer Grads to Construction Union Jobs
For many New Jersey residents, these programs are a lifeline to a better future
Op-Ed: Expanded HSA May Be Bright Spot in Healthcare Reform
The significant benefit of an HSA is that the funds you contribute remain yours even if you do not spend them, unlike the use-it-or-lose-it drawback of a Flexible Savings Account
‘Master Person Index’ Hopes to Ensure All NJ Patients Correctly Identified
The ambitious goal: make it possible to distinguish every patient in the Garden State to better target treatment and eliminate potentially dangerous mix-ups
Revised Federal Flood Insurance Program Looks to Sandy for Lessons Learned
Current NFIP is underwater with debt, overhaul would address that problem, be more responsive to homeowners, and cap the cost of annual increases
PSEG Nuclear Wants to Boost Power Output of Hope Creek Plant
Company waiting on approval of application submitted to Nuclear Regulatory Commission to increase output capacity by 1.6 percent
Fine Print: NJ Revises Accountability Plan for Federal Approval
Seven years after Race to the Top fiasco, Christie administration goes through federal review of its latest accountability plan
Christie Extols ‘Story of New Jersey’s Economic Success’
Crediting Republican policies, governor praises Garden State’s economic performance and blames media for not reporting it
A Big-Picture View of How Climate Change Is Affecting the Garden State
The Fund for New Jersey outlines the steps that need to be taken to prevent climate change from being disastrous for the state
Absentee Train Engineers Keep NJ Transit’s ‘Summer of Hell’ at Low Boil
Staffing problems have forced the agency to cancel 40 trains this week, as many as 64 all told this month
Helping Local Providers Better Integrate Physical, Behavioral Care
Nicholson Foundation seeks to benefit low-income patients at six community clinics
Poll: Just How Hellish Has Your Summer Commute Been?
According to some sources, the ‘Summer of Hell’ hasn’t lived up to its bad press. Do you agree, or have you been burned by your commute?
Treatment for Heroin Use Leads Substance-Abuse Programs in Garden State
Latest data from NJ Department of Human Services indicates heroin accounts for more than 40 percent of treatments statewide
Over Dinner, Paulsboro Residents Dish on NJ Politics and Politicians
Will these folks from Paulsboro vote in the upcoming gubernatorial election? Probably, but not because either of the two main candidates has set them on fire
DEP Rules Upheld in Dispute Over NJ Summer Flounder Fishing
U.S. Secretary of Commerce sides with New Jersey on regulations and against Atlantic states marine commission
NJ Could Get More Bang for Tax Incentive Bucks Backing Startups, Not Older Firms
New companies generally generate more jobs and continue to grow for years, while mature companies rarely deliver that sort of performance
Federal Court Upholds Illinois Decision to Subsidize Nuclear Plants
Ruling will have ramification in NJ, where PSEG Power has already broached subject of state incentives to keep its nuclear units up and running
NJ’s Water Infrastructure Needs Hearts, Minds, and Massive Investment
New Jersey’s network of water pipes is aging and in need of a major overhaul but advocates believe the public knows little and cares less about the problem
Campaigning for Governor Isn’t Enough, Start Planning a Transition — Now
Now’s the time to start studying floor plans, picking a chief of staff, planning a post-election schedule — and learning from advice of past governors
If Obamacare Is Repealed, Trio of Dems Want to Replace It on State Level
Proposal would use local taxes, instead of federal fees, to fund Medicaid and market plans
Tell Us What You Want to Know About New Jersey’s Finances
Your questions can help shape our coverage of this admittedly complex subject. Use this interactive tool to tell us what you want to know more about
Op-Ed: Consumers Better Off With Competitive Electricity Markets
Prices in states with competition and choice have trended downward while monopoly prices rise
Lead in Water Remains Pervasive Problem in New Jersey Schools
More than half the school districts in Bergen County have lead — a dangerous neurotoxin — in faucets and other fixtures
Legislating Against Blacklisting to Help Tenants Find Better Housing
Landlords deny that it’s done, but tenants who withhold rent to protest unhealthy living conditions often can’t find another place to live
Opposition Grows to Latest National GOP Healthcare Plan
More than just a struggle for healthcare, U.S. Sen. Cory Booker calls it a fight for 'values central to our democracy'
Race to the Bottom: NJ Ranked Dead Last of All 50 States for Fiscal Health
Persistent underfunding of public-employee pension system looks to have been a key factor in dismal showings in state-by-state comparisons
Christie’s Charter Legacy: A Clear Record of Growth
In the eight years the governor has headed up state government, charter school enrollment has more than doubled
Peace in Long Valley? Maybe Not When the Talk Turns to Politics
When it comes to national affairs, political discussions in this small hamlet can get pretty heated — yet the locals seem to find it hard to steer clear of just those topics
NJ Spotlight Fields Your Questions About the Garden State’s Water
We asked our readers to tell us what they wanted to know about the state’s water. Here’s where we deliver the answers
Push to Find Funding for Local Journalism — While Trenton Is ‘out of Town’
Grass-roots effort to tap into cash from sale of public airwaves will continue through summer and into 2018 if need be, organizers say
White House Addiction Panel Chaired by Christie Needs More Time to Draft Report
Deadline to deliver draft pushed back a second time, to July 31; national teleconference scheduled
Christie Backs Travel Ban, Says Airports Must Enforce Trump Order
Governor lambastes Democratic-controlled Legislature for bill that would allow Port Authority employees to sidestep ban
Christie Rejects Bill to Rejoin RGGI, for Third (and Last) Time
Governor claims NJ has no need to rejoin initiative since it is already a leader in curbing carbon emissions and has met its own mandated standards
Interactive Map: Economic Fortunes of Different Hispanic Groups Vary Widely
NJ’s Hispanic population grows but new census data reveal wide disparities in income, poverty, health insurance
Trying to Bring NJ’s Antipoverty Program into the 21st Century
Benefits for Work First New Jersey — the state’s welfare program — have been stagnant for 30 years. Legislation has been sent to the governor to address the issue
Public Workers to Be ‘Made Whole’ for Time Lost During State Shutdown
Democratic legislative leaders have come up with a bipartisan bill that Christie's spokesman says he will sign to get back pay to state employees sidelined during budget impasse
Lawmakers Wary of Christie’s Plan to Shift Addiction, Mental Health Services
Expert cited in Christie’s controversial reorganization plan calls it a ‘real opportunity for New Jersey’
Op-Ed: Frelinghuysen Moves to Destabilize ACA Marketplace
Frelinghuysen is actively working to undermine the individual market for health insurance while the GOP’s repeal-and-replace legislation hangs fire.
Is This New Jersey’s Future? Chronic Flooding from Sea-Level Rise
Under a worst-case scenario, some 130 communities in the Garden State could be inundated every other week
Would Reforms to Small-Business Tax, Minimum Wage, Family-Leave Fix NJ Economy?
Nonpartisan group proposes a range of policy changes — including driver’s licenses and college tuition assistance for undocumented immigrants — to boost the state’s economy
Now It’s Official: Harrington (Finally) Sworn in as Education Commissioner
She’s spent nine months doing the job, and now that she has the title it may be short lived: Christie’s term runs out in six months
Opinion: Greening the Garden State Gas Tax
A revenue-neutral way for New Jersey to lead the way on carbon pricing
New Healthcare Option for State Workers Expands Patient-Centered Care
National leader in employee care promises better outcomes, state savings
Sons See Roots of Newark Today in Its Troubled Past
Che and Junius Onome Williams believe some of the same issues that led to the 1967 rebellion in their home city of Newark are still relevant today
Bridgegate Architect Sentenced to Probation, Fined
David Wildstein’s extensive cooperation with government attorneys keeps him out of jail
Draft Water Plan Leaves Critics Dissatisfied on Several Key Fronts
The plan, they contend, doesn’t do enough to anticipate crises, head off likely deficits, and address water-quality issues, like lead in drinking supplies
Frelinghuysen Credited with $900M Aid to Gateway Tunnel, Other Transport Upgrades
New House spending bill ignores Trump’s budget proposals, keeps funds in place for rail project and other infrastructure upgrades
Youth Teams Will Put Poor Communities in Touch with Better Health
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation donates $2.6 million to fuel three-year programs statewide
Op-Ed: In Budget Aftermath, Time to Restore NJ’s Reputation
How many business executives who were thinking of moving or expanding here changed their minds after seeing what transpired in New Jersey up to and during the state shutdown?
Lawmakers Want to Close the Door on Negligent Landlords
Senators go after landlords who fail safety and sanitary standards while renting to tenants who get public assistance
NJ’s South Korean Community Disturbed by North’s Missile Launch
At roundtable with Rep. Pascrell, some attendees wish President Trump would do more to condemn North Korea’s actions
Christie’s Summer Surprise: Move Mental Health Services to Different Division
Shift from Human Services to Health department would involve 200 staff, nearly $1 billion
American Dream Wakes Up: Financing in Place, Megamall Gets Busy Building
With almost $3 billion in place, backers and critics alike hope the long-stalled entertainment complex will start to deliver on some of the 23,000 expected construction jobs
NJ Solar Sector Could Be in for Overhaul, with Solar Credits on Way out
Another attempt to smooth out industry’s boom-and-bust cycles, this one by ultimately phasing out solar subsidies paid to array owners
Opinion: Cleaning up Urban Waters — Focus Where the People Are
We need to focus discretionary expenditures where they will do the most good for residents and competitiveness
Gov. Chris Christie Auditions for New Gig: Sports Radio Host
Christie's infamous thin skin and impatience with those who disagree may not suit him to the airwaves
After Penn Station Repairs, Gateway Tunnel Is Next Worry
Transit expert says sword of Damocles hangs over region because construction of Gateway tunnels is so far off
First Day of Commuter Hell Wasn’t So Bad After All
NJ Transit riders say start of the summer-long disruption to their commute could have been worse
Sweeney, Prieto Want State Workers Paid for Forced Holiday
Both are going to the Legislature this week to make sure bipartisan bill is in place if Christie demurs
Getting a Read on $125 million Library Bond Ballot Question
Advocates argue that Garden State libraries need to catch up on technologies like the Internet, but opponents claim the state is ‘already drowning in debt’
NJ Seeks to Ban Pesticide Given Clean Bill of Health by EPA
Chlorpyrifos can potentially cause developmental damage to children, vomiting and dizziness in adults
Money Still Makes Biggest Difference to Kids’ Wellbeing in NJ
But even wealthiest counties can improve in some ways while the poorest do surprisingly well in some aspects of education, health, and safety
Is Hospital ER Weak Link in State’s Prescription Monitoring Program?
Doctors in emergency room don’t have to check statewide prescription database before they write scrip for opiates
Op-Ed: Don’t Play Politics with the Garden State’s Parks
Our public lands should not be held hostage to state budget negotiations
State Regulations Decrease Opiate Prescriptions Nationwide, CDC Finds
But too many patients still taking dangerously high levels of addictive drugs
State Looks to Private Partners for Help Rebuilding Energy Infrastructure
With government coffers depleted, state considers public-private partnerships as a way to help finance local and state projects
On the Menu for this New Jersey Barbecue: Politics
In this era of heated rhetoric and divisions, can residents even find common ground?
Most Voter Data Requested by Trump Administration Already Public in New Jersey
Despite availability of information, federal and state officials, civil rights organizations argue NJ should not comply with request
New Jersey’s Economic Outlook for 2018 Is So-So, Accountants Say
CPAs are worried about election-year uncertainties, property taxes, the state’s credit rating, budget problems, and federal healthcare changes
Op-Ed: Let’s Stop Treating Symptoms … Rome Is Burning!
An increasing number of conditions threaten the existence of our system of public education — and this might not be a bad thing
State Board Prepares to Cede Local Control to Jersey City Schools
Former Gov. Kean, who presided over takeover, quantifies modest success as ‘biggest disappointment’ of his administration
State Starts to Think Seriously About Deploying Microgrids
Trenton’s downtown thermal-energy district funded to determine if microgrids can deliver power and other vital services when power grid goes down
Budget Debate Delays Potential Out-of-Network Insurance Reform
Stakeholders, lawmakers, and even critics agree that taming surprise medical charges is a critical issue for healthcare sector to address successfully
Gov Touts Lottery as Answer to NJ’s Pension Problems, but Critics Deride Plan
A wise policy change? That depends on how the Lottery performs over the next 30 years
Opinion: Christie Gets Badly Burned by Clueless Moment of Sun and Fun
Once the photo of the governor lounging in his beach chair went viral, he couldn’t bully or bluff his way out of what the world saw — hubris on a grand scale
Despite Budget Drama and Deadlock, School Funding Changes Survive
Budget as signed represents first move in almost a decade to follow the state’s school-funding formula
Explainer: The Horizon Law that Helped Trigger a State Shutdown, up Close
The law as enacted helps protect Horizon policyholders, a key element missing in earlier versions
BPU Rules Encourage Utility Infrastructure Investments, Speed Rate Increases
Consumer advocates argue regulations may undercut ratepayer protections, are unnecessary under current system
The List: Think Murphy’s a Big Spender? He’s Been Outspent Handily in the Past
$60 million here, $50 million there: Which candidates opened their wallets widest in their not-always-successful pursuit of office?
With Budget Signing, State is Back in Business — Just in Time for the 4th
Legislative triple play — budget, Horizon bill, and Lottery transfer — break the logjam that brought all but essential services to a standstill across state
Budget Deadlock Stretches into Day 3, Thousands of State Workers Idled
Governor has summoned lawmakers back to Trenton for morning meeting; Prieto and Horizon CEO agree to try to talk through differences
State Government Goes Dark
Lights out in Trenton as frustrated horse-trading can’t break the deadlock over state budget, leading to first government shutdown in more than a decade
Showdown or Shutdown: Will Dems Deliver on Deal Sweeney Cut with Christie?
In return for passing the Horizon and Lottery-transfer bills, the governor says he’ll sign the budget — and keep his veto pen to himself. Meanwhile, the budget-countdown clock keeps ticking
Prieto Digs in, Controversial Horizon Reform Remains Budget Stumbling Block
Assembly Speaker describes Senate-approved measure as a pig with ‘no lipstick, maybe just a little bit of blush’
New School Aid Left in Limbo as Pols Take Budget to 11th Hour
The $131 million now set to go to districts is about 10% less than originally planned; cuts will be held to 2% of total aid
Interactive Map: The Geography of NJ’s Juvenile Justice System
Youth prisons, according to critics, are expensive, underutilized, and ineffective and should be shut down in favor of community-based programs
Op-Ed: Medicaid Cuts Would Devastate People with Lifelong Disabilities in NJ
Medicaid provides the resources for people with disabilities to live independently, with strong, ongoing supports, to ensure the best possible life for every person
Could Horizon Reform Bill Derail State Budget? It’s Down to the Wire
Vitale accuses Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey of ‘trying to whip up a wave of hysteria’ over proposal to reform the insurance company
Extensive and Expensive: Coming to Terms with NJ’s Fiscal Challenges
First report in a new series takes a nonpartisan approach to fixing the state’s financial faults, from cutting back on retiree benefits to boosting the sales tax
DEP Tables PennEast Application, Another Delay for Troubled Pipeline
State agency seeks detailed information about stream and wetlands crossings, but
pipeline company can’t comply
Q&A: Mark Biedron, Former President, State Board of Education
Biedron reflects on his six years of service, recalls some contentious issues, and remains in the dark about why the administration didn’t reappoint him
Opinion: What the Sweeney-Prieto Plan Needs Is a District-by-District Analysis
Sweeney-Prieto may have good intentions, but its consequences could be dire for some districts
Death of Undocumented Man Detained in New Jersey Raises Questions, Alarms
ICE says Rolando Meza Espinoza died because of existing medical condition, his family says he was denied proper medication
Annual Survey of Homeless Indicates 5% Decrease in Past Year
But chronic homelessness is on the rise, along with number of kids without families living on the streets
Newark Police to Get Revised Policies on Use of Force
Among other new rules, officers will be required to report the unholstering, exhibiting, or pointing of a firearm in the presence of the public
Trump Administration Rolling Back Protections for Small Streams, Wetlands
Federal repeal likely to affect New Jersey by eroding protections for headwaters that feed the drinking-water supply
Senate Healthcare Proposal Would Cost NJ Billions, Boost Uninsured, Experts Say
U.S. Senate leadership delays vote on GOP healthcare plan; Garden State advocates vow to use time to keep battling proposed legislation
Expanded Family Leave Bill Reaches Christie, But Its Future Is Uncertain
Measure doubles amount of paid leave available, bumps up weekly payments, adds job protection
Business Leaders Meh About NJ’s Prospects But Optimistic for National Economy
Executives are perturbed about New Jersey’s high taxes and the state government’s approach to business
Op-Ed: Planned Cuts to NJ Disability Support are Cruel and Do Not Save Tax Dollars
Proposed changes will slash funding for critical services that people need to live independently
Budget Committees in Upper and Lower Chambers Approve $34.7B Spending Plan
But even if plan passes full Legislature and goes to Christie in time, could New Jersey still be facing a government shutdown?
New Plan for Horizon Could Require Insurer to Turn Funds over to NJ
Contentious meeting hammers out regulations, one of which could establish a maximum surplus size that insurer could maintain before disbursing funds
Clean Energy Fund Raided (Again) to Plug Last Hole in State Budget
Administration, lawmakers tap $75 million from fund, up $25 million from amount announced previously — in addition to $161 million already diverted this year
Opinion: Putting Guadagno’s Very Long Shot in Perspective
A come-from-behind victory for the lieutenant governor isn’t mathematically impossible, but it’s historically improbable
NJ’s Patchwork of Immigration Policies Works Against Undocumented
When an undocumented resident is arrested, whether they’re issued a summons or taken to county jail while ICE is contacted is a matter of jurisdiction
Getting Ballot Question on the Books for $125M Bond Sale for Local Libraries
If the lawmakers, governor, and residents go for it, bonds would fund matching grants to help libraries with capital projects
Ralph LaRossa Takes on New Tasks: President and COO of PSEG Power
Move, press release seem to confirm speculation that he is being groomed to replace Izzo — chairman, president, and CEO of PSEG
U.S. Rep. Menendez Blasts GOP Senate Healthcare Bill as ‘Downright Nasty’
Legislation could ultimately cost New Jersey $30 billion in Medicaid funding
Suicide Third Leading Cause of Death for New Jerseyans Ages 10 to 24
Report indicates that rate of suicide continues to climb, highest incidence in northwest portion of state
'Greens' See Red Over Budget Plan, Raids on Pollution Settlements
Environmentalists warn current spending plan lets administration divert money meant to restore damages to natural resources to general fund
Pre-K Expansion, the Silent Partner in the Dems’ School-Funding Scheme
Some $25 million dollars in new aid could mean full-day pre-K for another 2,500 children
Budget Stalemate Threatens 2018 Transportation Projects Worth $4B
As governor and Democratic leaders remain at odds over state budget, $4 billion in Transportation Trust Fund spending also hangs in the balance
Op-Ed: Switching Lottery Profits to Pensions, Another Reckless Budget Gimmick
The Lottery switch is one more scheme that will dig NJ’s already deep hole of shrinking support for essential services and investments even deeper
Republican Leaders Unveil A School-Funding Plan of Their Own
GOP picks up a notable ally in Wendell Steinhauer, president of the NJEA
Christie Keeps Pushing to Siphon Cash from Horizon to Fund Drug Treatments
State’s largest health insurer claims $15 million DHS sanction is ‘retaliation’ for refusing to go along with governor’s demand for $300 million from its reserves
U.S. Appellate Court Upholds PJM Rules to Meet Peak Demand for Power
Environmentalists, others fear new regulations from operator of the power grid will cause prices to spike when demand is highest
Increasing Fiscal Transparency by Tracking, Reporting on Unspent Funds
Bipartisan effort would keep tabs on money allocated to programs and endeavors that is sometimes left to languish in various state accounts
Profile: Former Corporate Employee Whose New Job Is Turning Around Kids’ Lives
Retha Onitiri doesn’t believe in setting her goals too low; she just wants to remake the state’s system of juvenile incarceration
Poll: School Aid, School Aid — Is there a Way out of the Funding Maze?
The Democrats have unveiled their new plan. Should Christie go for it or walk away?
Sweeney, NJEA Square off in Ugly Brawl About School Funding
Never good friends, the Senate president and the state teachers union punch and counterpunch over $125 million school-aid plan
NJ Representatives Lead Bipartisan Push to Preserve Income-Tax Deduction
In letter to Trump administration, Lance, Pascrell, and other members of Congress lobby in favor of policy that lets taxpayers deduct state and local taxes from federal returns
Garden State Seeks to Regulate Hospital Protocols for Sepsis
Despite sharing of diagnostic data and best practices, sepsis mortality rates are on the rise in New Jersey
Supreme Court Rules OPRA Applies to Email, Other Electronic Data
In strongly worded reversal of lower court decision, top court says information stored electronically by state agencies qualifies as ‘government records’
Op-Ed: Fixing NJ’s Behavioral Health Issues Isn’t as Easy as Extra Beds
Just adding more beds — while a step in the right direction — won’t solve the problem: patients need improved access to behavioral health and providers need payment reform
Christie Says ‘We’ll Have to See’ About Sweeney-Prieto School-Funding Deal
Governor says aspects of Democrats’ deal are ‘encouraging’ while others are ‘discouraging and unfair’
Westwood Voters Want Real Help, Not Quick Fixes
The party affiliation of New Jersey’s next governor does not much matter to many voters in Westwood. What matters is whether the officerholder has real solutions for the state’s problems
Sweeney, Prieto to Christie: School Funding First, then We’ll Do the Budget
Legislative leaders want governor to agree to school-aid formula independent of budget, so Christie can’t line-item veto changes he doesn’t like in the spending plan
From Tragic Death, a Law to Safeguard People with Developmental Disabilities
‘Komninos Law’ protects individuals at residential facilities and day programs, requires families and guardians to be notified within an hour of any problems
State Takes Steps to Tap into $72.2M Volkswagen Settlement
Money would be used to deploy charging infrastructure for electric cars, relieve air pollution from transportation sector
Opinion: Sweeney-Prieto School Aid Plan Could Defuse Campaign Issue
Compromise could be seen as settling the matter for at least a year, but right now it’s still up to Christie to say ‘yea’ or ‘nay’
Trump's FBI Pick Billed Taxpayers $2.1M, as Christie's Bridgegate Lawyer
Tab included airfare and legal expenses after the Bridgegate trial ended
A Small Town that Wants More Attention from Trenton
Mayor says his town, like other small towns in New Jersey, is ‘out of sight, out of mind’ while the focus of State House politicians is on big cities
NJ’s Top Two Utilities Could Do More to Help Customers Cut Energy Use, Costs
National scorecard of 51 largest utilities ranks PSE&G, JCP&L near bottom when it comes to saving consumers money with energy efficiency
NJ Lawmakers, Advocates Push to Spend More to Curb Smoking
State officials indicate they’re already investing in anti-smoking efforts, as smoking rates decline
Mission Impossible? Bramnick, Prieto Want to Make NJ Politics More Polite
Assembly leaders shake hands on a proposal to take some of the anger and insults out of the Garden State’s brand of hardball politics
Voting Block: New Jersey Neighbors Dare to Talk Politics
Conversations across the political divide are increasingly difficult, which makes them all-the-more essential
Female Boxing Champion Empowers Young Women to Talk About Fears
Mia St. John opens up about her struggles with drugs, alcoholism, and mental illness to demonstrate that problems are not weaknesses
Interactive Map: Charting the Ups and Downs of Dems’ School-Aid Plan
For critics it’s not just a matter of winners and losers; NJEA dismisses strategy as ‘sick scheme’ for proposing school budget cuts so late in the day
NJ Treasurer Pitches Plan to Use Lottery to Help Prop Up Public-Worker Pensions
Some lawmakers appear receptive to idea; others want Wall Street to vet the scheme, while union skepticism makes itself heard
DHS Official Defends Medicaid Payment Reform; Mental Health Providers Worried
Meeting at Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital is told transition to new system going well, but providers remain concerned
$500 Million Slotted for Sewage-Treatment, Drinking-Water Systems
Funds to be distributed by Environmental Infrastructure Trust, well-regarded financier for clean-water projects for several decades
Poll: Have You Got a Favorite Candidate for Governor?
Common wisdom holds that it’s a long way to November, but that doesn’t stop people from starting to sort out the candidates
Majority in NJ Support State Funds for Family Planning Clinics
Protesters rallied in Trenton yesterday to show their support for Planned Parenthood and against governor’s latest expected denial of funds to clinics
Sweeney, Prieto Agreement Adds $125M to School-Funding Formula
Embattled Democratic leaders shake hands on a deal, but will Christie and the rest of the Legislature buy into their vision?
Murphy Calls for Permanent Ban on Fracking in Delaware River Basin
If Democratic candidate for governor wins election, it could help swing Delaware River Basin Commission to follow his call on fracking
Judge Rules Against Lawmakers Trying to Stop $300M State House Repairs
Decision paves the way for renovation project to begin but legislators not ready to concede defeat, might appeal
Murphy, Guadagno Make Their First Post-Primary Play for a Business Audience
Murphy doesn’t back down from $15 minimum wage at New Jersey Business & Industry gathering; Guadagno — who gets ‘standing O’ — wants to give folks a chance to get to know her
What Do You Want to Know About How NJ Funds Its Public Schools?
Use our interactive tool to let us know your questions about school funding in the Garden State
Menendez, Other Senators Call for Major Reforms in Flood Insurance Program
Sandy victims pleased as proposed changes include capping homeowners’ premiums and limiting insurance company profits
Outlook for Clean Energy Budget: Dollars Fall, Diversions to Continue
Diversions may dip slightly, but funneling money away from its intended purpose has cost fund some $1.5 billion over past seven years
Continued Trouble Dogs Troubled Agency Charged with Protecting Animals
Some half-dozen people linked to NJSPCA have been interviewed or will soon be by State Commission of Investigation
NJ Health Department Gains National Recognition for Public Health Work
National accreditation for successful public health programs puts NJDOH in very exclusive group of 25 other states, 162 communities
Christie, Degnan Kick Off Terminal A Modernization at Newark Airport
In remarks, governor says he ‘absolutely’ believes Trump administration will fund federal share of Gateway Tunnel project
Does Politics Have a Role to Play in Pastoral Long Valley?
Our first foray into a new series called Voting Block, whose goal is to get neighbors talking about their political beliefs — and hopefully listening to one another
2% Salary Cap for Police, Firefighters to Expire, Dems Block Debate on Renewal
Municipalities alarmed at financial consequences for local governments if cap goes while 2 percent property tax levy remains in place
EPA Delays Federal Ozone Standard, Slows NJ’s Efforts to Reduce Smog
Without standard, NJ can’t crack down on cars, trucks, businesses that pump ozone into the atmosphere
The Doctor Will Interface with You Now: Telemedicine Moves Closer in NJ
Among the issues to iron out, do connections between patients and providers have to be real time?
Op-Ed: 10 Questions to Ask Senators About the AHCA, If Only They Let Us
The future of health insurance for Americans is being decided by 13 Republican senators behind closed doors
Activists Want 30% Affordable Housing, Local Jobs in Jersey City
The 100-acre Bayfront site, once contaminated with chromium, is now valuable real estate in whose future locals want a say
Garden State Solar Sector Continues to Heat Up, Though Clouds on Horizon
New Jersey deployed nearly 400 megawatts of solar capacity in 2016, fifth-highest ranking in United States
Governor Approves Law Expanding Pharmacy Access to Opioid Antidote
Life-saving medicine already available at some chain drug stores without a prescription
Should NJ Deliver In-Depth Analysis of the Affordability of Its Debt?
A comprehensive debt-affordability analysis can be used as a tool to weigh future bond issues and the costs of servicing that debt
Op-Ed: New Jersey Needs Updated Voter Processes
Living in our fast-paced world requires adapting to a changing electorate
Trump Tees Off Fundraiser for U.S. Rep. MacArthur at His Bedminster links
New Jersey congressman brokered compromise that revived GOP healthcare bill
DEP, Lawmakers Clash Over Development in the Highlands
Assembly votes to stop state agency from boosting number of septic tanks in pristine preserve, source of drinking water for millions in NJ
More States Join NJ Drug-Monitoring System to Curb Abuses Like Doctor-Shopping
Governor says interstate use of the New Jersey Prescription Monitoring Program has skyrocketed in last couple of years
Explainer: Decoding NJ’s Budget Babble — a Dictionary of Useful Terms
Just in time for budget season, a cornucopia of helpful explanations and abstruse interpretations, from Appropriations Act to zero-based budgeting
Taxing Hedge Fund Managers Just Like Regular Folks — a Matter of Fair Play?
Performance fees earned by hedge fund managers are taxed at a far lower rate than personal income. The difference to NJ: as much as $100M annually
Gov. Christie Rises to the Defense of President Trump in Comey Matter
The governor thinks that part of the problem is that folks in D.C. don’t recognize a ‘normal New York City conversation’
State Board Poised to End Control of Jersey City Schools, Newark May Follow
But which state board will make the call? The makeup of the panel is still in flux, and its president and vice president could be ushered out the door
Tearing Down Silos, Collaboration Work to Benefit Public Health
Making the community a partner in healthcare and delivering a range of coordinated services are starting to show results across Garden State
Murphy, Guadagno Take Gloves Off, Hit the Campaign Trail — and Each Other
Neither candidate for governor took a post primary-election breather. Instead, they laid down markers for the coming combat
When Christie Stashed His Bridgegate Cell Phone With the FBI Nominee
There’s no evidence that Christopher Wray, President Donald Trump's choice to lead the FBI, did anything more than zealously represent his client in this matter
Op-Ed: Waffling in D.C. Means Higher Health Insurance Premiums for NJ
When rates jump as much as 50 percent, it’s unclear whether consumers on individual exchange in those states will be able to afford health insurance at all
On the Air: Gubernatorial Candidates Lay Out Their Wares
Phil Murphy said New Jersey is “in crisis” and Kim Guadagno said the state has to become more affordable
Wins for Murphy, Guadagno Demonstrate Power of County Organizations
Clear victors in the Democratic and Republican gubernatorial primaries were also clear favorites of their party’s political machines
A Night of the Incumbents in Most of NJ’s Hotly Contested Districts
With nearly 280 candidates in the running for their party’s Senate and Assemby seats, almost half of this year’s primary contests could be considered battlegrounds
State’s Proposed Wetlands Rule Would Speed, Simplify Developer Permitting
Critics particularly concerned about new rule that would allow developers to certify they’ve met all regulations without any DEP oversight
Delayed Implementation Doesn’t Soften Costly Blow of GOP Healthcare Plan
Regardless of when it’s rolled out, Trumpcare is likely to price coverage out of reach of NJ’s poor, elderly population
Restoration Underway at Ortley Beach to Repair Sandy Damage
Tons of sand are being dredged from the ocean to remake the beach after which crews will go to work on the shore at Lavalette
Trump Administration Opens Way to Drilling for Oil, Gas Off Atlantic Coast
National Fisheries Service proposing permits for seismic surveys off coast; ‘greens’ say surveys first step to full-throttle drilling
Whatever You Need to Know About the Primaries, We've Got You Covered
Candidate bios, positions, contested legislative races, and the location of your polling place. And starting this evening, we'll be reporting the results of all races in real time
Racial Disparity in Infant Mortality Remains Persistent Public-Health Challenge
Reducing black infant mortality means addressing a range of issues, such as poverty, smoking, stress, food insecurity — even gum disease
Shining Light on Hefty Fees to Outside Managers of Public Pension Funds
Lawmakers want online publication of management fees and ‘stress tests’ of all funds in $73 billion pension system
Opinion: Communities Matter for Better Health
As the national health reform debate grinds on, we should not forget that communities also matter for better health.
Claims that ICE Arrests of the Undocumented On the Rise at NJ Courthouses
Advocates say precise numbers hard to come by, but attorneys give lawmakers details of clients swept up by immigration agents
American Dream Megamall: Investors Must Measure the Risk
Preliminary bond offerings catalog an array of risks, including transportation and America’s dwindling romance with malls
Angling to Get New Jersey into the United States Climate Alliance
Lawmakers look to have Garden State join California, New York, other states in a domestic accord to curb carbon-based pollution
Local Journalism in New Jersey Could Be in for $100 Million Windfall
Under a Democratic plan, a chunk of the $332 million proceeds from FCC spectrum auction could go to media, but Christie may want it all for the budget’s general fund
Pushing Meningitis B Vaccine to Protect Residential College Students
Sharing food, drinks, living in close quarters, and kissing — all good reasons to safeguard students against this potentially deadly disease
With Democratic Governor, Garden State Would Be Much Greener
Candidates are mostly in accord on ramping up renewables, rejoining RGGI, and reversing some of Gov. Christie’s environmental and energy programs
Op-Ed: Putting NJ on the Road to Financial Stability and Fairness
Solving our state’s budget woes is possible but requires state legislators to demonstrate guts and a strong sense of fairness
Interactive Map: Where New Jersey’s Most Generous Political Donors Live
Campaign spending in the run-up to the primaries continues to track record-breaking amounts, reaching almost $37 million as of May 23
Public Education and the Candidates: Putting the Issues in Perspective
The hot topics are no secret — funding, PARCC testing, and charter schools — but teasing out where the candidates stand is the real test
Home Heating Costs Likely to Tick up with Price of Natural Gas
NJ homeowners could see their monthly bills increase by as little as 80 cents or as much as $8.00 depending on which utility they use
Renewed Push to Expand Elective Angioplasty to More Hospitals in New Jersey
Advocates argue that developments in medical technology make the procedure safe enough to be offered by more facilities
Bid to Hike 2% Voter Turnout for Fire-District Elections by Moving Them to November
183 fire districts with 8,000 firefighters spend hundreds of millions of dollars, but hardly any New Jerseyans vote in their elections
Democratic, Republican Candidates Detail Plans for Affordable Housing
Courting millennials, building tiny houses, adding a cabinet-level position — gubernatorial candidates have plenty to say on this controversial topic
Op-Ed: New Jersey’s Coming College Enrollment Crisis
A significant decline in the number of NJ high school graduates who will be seeking college degrees should be a major concern for the next governor and other leaders
Retired Police Officer Rogers Bets on ‘Blue Wall’ of Support
The Nutley township commissioner, a long shot in the race to succeed Chris Christie as governor, spoke with optimism on The Brian Lehrer Show
NJ Commuters’ Summer of Hell Just Got Even Hotter
NJ Transit plan includes up to 45-minute delays each way for almost 7,000 daily riders
Push to Protect Payments for Personal Care Assistants
Bipartisan group of legislators works to set minimum hourly rate as insurance company announces plan to cut what it pays for home care services
In Unexpected Move, BPU Holds off Advancing Two Controversial Rules
Agency decides not to move on regulations that would ease oversight of utility infrastructure investments, speed rate collection from customers
Gubernatorial Candidates Take Aim at New Jersey's Gun-Control Laws
Concealed carry and faster permitting, smart-gun technology and background checks, what do the hopefuls have to say on this controversial subject?
Opinion: NJ Needs a Better Approach to Water Supply Planning
The key is finding a balance between specific requirements to guide future administrations, without getting so prescriptive as to constrain evolution
NJ, NY at Odds Over Delaware River Water Allocations
New Jersey wants millions more gallons of water a day. The challenge is to convince New York, which controls the spigot
Faster Forensics Processing Means More Time to Prevent Crime
Thanks to a new one-stop forensics lab, state police can process evidence in 48 hours rather than 10 months
Ciattarelli Tells Brian Lehrer Show He’s an ‘Eisenhower Republican’
Guadagno’s main rival among Republicans for governor said NJ economy has to be main focus
GOP State Senator Offers New Gender-Pay Law but Weinberg Won’t Support It
Outgoing lawmaker Diane Allen attempts to bridge partisan divide on pay-equity legislation. Senate Majority Leader Weinberg not satisfied, suggests better to wait for arrival of new governor
Without Subsidies, Three Mile Island Could Go Dark, Operator Asserts
In an argument that mirrors the one made by PSEG, Exelon says it can’t afford to keep TMI in service without help from Pennsylvania ratepayers
Renewed Push to Tackle and Tame Out-of-Network Medical Bills
Patient, business advocates call for ‘two-pronged approach’ that melds transparency and mechanism to resolve disputes over surprise charges
Gubernatorial Candidates Talk Undocumented Immigrants, Legalized Pot
What is it that separates the candidates from both parties on these two pressing topics?
Trump's Justice Dept. Probes Possible Discrimination Against Muslims
The town of Bayonne rejected a proposal to convert a warehouse into a mosque, citing concerns about parking and buffer zones to adjacent properties
Op-Ed: The Trump Budget — It Will Never Happen
The federal budget process does not award the president the power of the line-item veto, which severely limits his ability to shape the final budget
Governor Announces 500 Abandoned Buildings in Trenton Will Be Demolished
Christie says ‘unacceptable’ to leave office without having started effort to ‘turn around’ the capital city
PSEG Power Retires Two Biggest Coal-Burning Plants in New Jersey
Shuttering the plants follows a national trend, as cleaner, cheaper natural gas supplants coal across the country
Gubernatorial Hopefuls from Both Parties Have Plans for Transportation Spending
Now that the TTF is flush, should the money be spent boosting NJT’s capital budget and enhancing safety, rebuilding roads and bridges, or on all of the above?
GOP Gubernatorial Candidates Divided on Energy, Environment
Guadagno favors regional approach to greenhouse-gas emissions; for Ciattarelli, a national program makes more sense
State Forces Physical Therapists to Wind Down ‘Dry Needling’ Treatment
Therapists’ decade-long practice to end; acupuncturists, other professionals accused them of performing ‘unlicensed acupuncture’
More Than Just a Facelift, User-Friendly ELEC Site Delivers Wealth of Data
Sophisticated search tools make it a snap to drill down into campaign contributions, near-real time filings from gubernatorial candidates, and much more
Republican Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen and the ‘Poisoned Chalice’
A scribbled footnote on a fundraising request reveals the bare-knuckled side of a low-key lawmaker
Op-Ed: In NJ, as in Nearby States, Competitiveness Drives Affordability
The only way to stem our tide of outmigration is to bring our economic policies in line with our direct regional competitors — Pennsylvania and New York
The Candidate Decoder: The Primary Race for New Jersey Governor
This interactive tool makes it simple to find a candidate with whom you’re simpatico
Lawmakers Push Back on Development in Highlands, Climate Change
In two votes along mostly party lines Democrats block more septic tanks in the Highlands, and position the Garden State to rejoin RGGI
Some Unexpected Drama for Staid, State Board of Education
Naming two new members to the panel kicks up some legislative dust as Senators want to interview replacements
Opinion: Disorder in the Courts, the Case Against Electing Judges
The corrosive effect of ‘justice for sale’ would be devastating to the idea that the courts represent a fair and just forum for grievances
Push for Emergency Responders to Report Data in New Statewide System
Proponents say program would not gather patient names or other identifying information, could improve health in New Jersey
The Hottest Seats in the House: Guide to NJ’s Most-Contested Primaries
From gas-tax ghosts in the 26th to the progressive uprising in the 17th, here’s a look at the legislative heat just in time for the election
Moody’s Keeps NJ’s A3 Credit Rating but Says State Needs to Raise Taxes, Cut Spending
Rating agency also suggests Christie administration’s latest budget projections err on the rosy side
Lesniak Fails to Muster Votes to Override Christie Veto of Puppy Mill Measure
Senator’s impassioned appeal not enough to push through bill that would strengthen restrictions on pet shops, breeding facilities
With NJ’s Legislature Up for Grabs, You Need a Big Picture to Assess the Action
Competitive or contested? Knowing the difference is key to understanding what’s happening on the ground in all 40 districts
Second Wave Hep-C Hits Young, Suburban Drug Users in New Jersey
Mistakenly considered a baby-boomer disease, hepatitis C is growing rapidly among young drug addicts — who often don’t know they’re infected
An Old-Fashioned Horse Race to See Who Will Be Next Assembly Speaker
Relative unknown Craig Coughlin says he already has the political backing to take the speakership from Vincent Prieto — two weeks before the primaries
PSEG Chief Wants Customers to Use Less Energy, Without Taking Financial Hit
Izzo’s message: there are ‘billions’ to be made from energy efficiency, while industry and regulators squabble ‘over tens of millions’
10.5% Returns for NJ Public Pension System, Big Turnaround from Last Year
Investment council maintains strategy, continues to cut back hedge funds, waits to see if Legislature will take up governor’s Lottery proposal
Newark Parents’ LIFO Challenge Back in Court on Appeal
Summarily dismissed last month, the appeal turns on the plaintiffs’ allegation that judge didn’t give ‘adequate consideration to harm … being done’
Op-Ed: NJ Must Add Financial Safeguards to New Mental Health Funding Model
Without a ‘safety net’ for mental health providers, as many as 20,000 residents could lose access to life-sustaining services
Singh, ‘Only True Conservative,’ Wants to Fix NJ’s Lack of Affordability
Atlantic City native believes American dream is in peril for next generation
On the Air: Joseph Rudy Rullo on WNYC’s The Brian Lehrer Show
Rullo gets the chance to take his platform to the radio audience, and explore some of the nuances of what he stands for as a Republican hopeful
Trump Budget Especially Harmful to New Jersey, Advocates Warn
Democrats outraged, Republicans lukewarm, Gov. Christie ‘concerned’ about proposal for massive cuts to Medicaid
How Democratic, Republican Candidates Say They'd Ease NJ’s Fiscal Crisis
School funding and tax phase-outs, pension benefits and closing loopholes — here’s a look at where this year’s gubernatorial hopefuls stake their claims
NJ Customers Can Expect to Pay More as Power Prices Spike in Capacity Auction
PSEG Power’s decision to retire two coal-burning plants contributes to steep increase, along with continuing problems of congestion on the grid
Prieto, Sweeney: Separate Takes on Expanding Family Leave
Both favor boosting paid time off and increasing how much workers can collect while they’re not on the job — the differences are in the details
Op-Ed: The Opioid-Addiction Industrial Complex — America’s Dirty Secret
The United States is in a crisis of its own making. We are by far the largest consumer of opioids on the planet
Garden State Children Continue to Show Social Welfare Gains
But advocates argue repeal of Obamacare will damage kids, especially poor black and Hispanic ones, who still lag behind white children
Developer Secures Key Financing for Long-Stalled American Dream Mall
Is this a major turning point or another false start? Megamall’s builder is confident, says going to ‘aggressively move forward with the construction’
Lawmakers Hope to Steer State Back into Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative
As is becoming increasingly common with environmental efforts, backers are looking beyond Christie administration for success
Op-Ed: Asbestos and Lead — Two Deadly Threats that Must Both Be Eliminated
The idea that we can ignore one hazardous chemical because we are focused on eliminating another is dangerously short-sighted
Christie Touts Job Gains, ID’s Democrats as Potential Problems
Governor uses press conference to warn about ‘failed old policies,’ talks Guadagno and State House renovation, more
Verizon Settles in South Jersey, Promising Clearer Lines, Speedier Internet
Telecom giant agrees to give customers in South Jersey what they’ve been asking for: better service over copper landlines and Fios upgrades where possible
Prieto’s Run for Third Term as Assembly Speaker Might Not Go Unchallenged
At least one other Assembly member is considered a possible rival for the incumbent
2018 Budget Plan Puts Cleaning Up Brownfields Above Easing Climate Change
Budget proposal shifts $6 million from Global Warming Solutions Fund to general budget to help restore contaminated sites
New Jersey Crafts Sexual Assault Victim’s Bill of Rights
Bill would codify existing laws, ensure assault victims are treated with respect, dignity, and empathy
The List: Top 10 States Contributing to NJ’s Gubernatorial Hopefuls
New Jersey led the list, as expected, but money rolled in from nearby New York and Pennsylvania, as well as Florida and California
NJ Gubernatorial Hopefuls Agree: $300M State House Renovation Must Be Stopped
Whether it’s by lawsuit or freezing funds, outright cancelation, or some other maneuver, Democrats and Republicans alike want to stop the clock on the costly project
Op-Ed: New Jersey Immigrants Lack Adequate Legal Representation
The promulgation of executive orders specifically targeting immigrants has left thousands of residents in New Jersey vulnerable to arrest, detention, and deportation
In Second GOP Debate, Guadagno and Ciattarelli Trade Shots About Taxes
Despite accusations of lying and hypocrisy, candidates do agree on some topics — such as such as relaxing the state's gun control laws and decriminalizing marijuana
Aetna Wants Out of NJ’s Individual, Small-Group Health Insurance Markets
Uncertainty about future, as federal officials repeal and replace Obamacare, contributes to the decision
Ten NJ Locals of Mass-Transit Union Deliver Endorsement to Murphy
Amalgamated Transit Union’s 8,000 rank and file comprise NJ Transit bus drivers, Newark light-rail operators
Interactive Map: Obamacare Part of People’s Lives Across All ZIP Codes
The federal government recently released detailed data on the 2017 open enrollment period, making it possible to map highest concentrations of ACA coverage across the state
Watch the Republican Gubernatorial Debate
Broadcast and commentary with NJTV and NJ Spotlight reporters offers context and insight about candidates' positions
Opinion: Are Gov. Chris Christie’s Pot Policies ‘Beyond Stupidity’?
That’s how Christie characterized the beliefs of those who support legalization and taxation of marijuana use for adults. Is this the pot calling the kettle black?
Trump Administration Deports Indonesian Christian Facing Persecution at Home
An agreement reached with the Obama administration allowed a number of men to stay, as long as they checked in with Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Republican Gubernatorial Candidates Cool to ACA Replacement Bill
Guadagno and Ciattarelli both back reforms to public-employee benefits, would extend coverage of medical marijuana
Lawmakers Fume Over Private Bond Sale for $300M NJ State House Renovation
Caught off-guard by Christie administration’s speedy move on financing of controversial project, four legislators vow to continue to try to block it
Assembly Panel Looks to Ban Pesticide OK’d by Trump Administration
Chlorpyrifos has been linked to developmental problems in kids, can cause nausea and other conditions in adults
360-Degree Cameras Give NJ Transit Buses a Better View from Driver’s Seat
Once $29M system is installed in all buses, drivers will be able to keep a close eye on passengers, pedestrians, cars, and cyclists on all sides
Opinion: Imperfect Accuracy, Imperfect Honesty — the Sean Spicer Dilemma
When President Trump said his press secretary couldn’t speak with ‘perfect accuracy,’ he suggested Spicer may be lying — leaving him in an impossible situation
Watchdog Group Files Ethics Complaint Against Frelinghuysen
Campaign for Accountability contends that GOP representative’s letter to bank represents intimidation
This Year’s Budget Blunder: Projected $527M Shortfall
Paying off Homestead tax-relief credits next fiscal year, tapping Clean Energy Fund cited as ways administration plans on finding revenue to close expected gap
Democratic Gubernatorial Hopefuls Support Single-Payer, Women’s Healthcare
All four candidates emphasize the need to protect New Jerseyans as GOP repeals and replaces current healthcare protections
Sarlo Airs Concerns About Nuclear Subsidies at Budget Committee Hearing
BPU president Mroz favors regional approach to problem, rather than a state-by-state solution
Op-Ed: Memo to Gov. Chris Christie — Hands off Horizon
The plan to raid Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield reserves to pay for drug treatment programs is truly a case of robbing Peter to pay Paul
Woman Targeted by Frelinghuysen Wants People to Know What U.S. Rep. Did
Political activist says that congressman’s note to member of bank board imperiled her job
Mother Begs NJ to Return Autistic Daughter to Out-of-State Facility
Jennifer Sullivan flourished at Plowshare Farm in New Hampshire but has deteriorated markedly since being ordered back to New Jersey under a state program
Senators File Suit in State Superior Court to Stop State House Renovations
Filing claims that multimillion-dollar plan to restore State House violates New Jersey constitution
Push to Make Diversions from Clean Energy Fund Unconstitutional
Advocates disagree over whether siphoning should be shut down immediately or allowed to continue on a limited basis for five-year phase-out
Senate, Assembly Primary Races on Track to Being Most Expensive in NJ History
Tweny-nine days before the primaries, Democrats and Republicans have raised $29.4 million, the highest total since at least 2011
Newark Teachers Union Inks New Contract — without Oprah, Zuckerberg
After more than a year at the bargaining table, NTU walks away with contract that protects performance bonuses, includes raises
Home Sober Home: Making Sure Recovering Addicts Have a Safe Haven
Modifying land-use laws will make it easier for state-run facilities to get zoning permission, another aspect of larger effort to combat addiction, improve recovery options
Are Police Officers in New Jersey Paid Appropriately?
The pay is better in well-off suburban towns than it is in cities where crime is a problem
Op-Ed: Restore Voting Rights to People on Parole and Probation
NJ bans almost 95,000 people from voting because of a criminal conviction. Over three-quarters — about 70,000 — are on parole or probation
Lesniak Lays Out His Policies, Proposals on WNYC’s Brian Lehrer Show
Democratic hopeful discusses environmental protection, property-tax reform, and criminal justice, among other topics
GOP Rep. Frelinghuysen Targets Activist in Letter to Her Employer
Employee questioned and criticized for involvement in NJ 11th for Change, a group pushing Frelinghuysen to hold town-hall meetings
Consumer Advocates Question BPU Scheme to Streamline Grid Upgrades
Critics argue against giving utilities the opportunity to push through infrastructure projects with minimal review and collect on investments more quickly
Democratic Hopefuls Dismiss Scheme to Funnel Lottery Profits into Pensions
Legislative leaders, unions also argue that Christie’s Lottery plan will go nowhere if it requires more givebacks from public-employee unions
New Jersey’s Medical Marijuana Panel Recommends Expanding Program
Potential changes, which could ultimately help reduce state’s opioid epidemic, will likely not be in place until later this year
Op-Ed: Underneath NJ — an Unhealthy, Costly, Disgusting Problem
What we need right now is a comprehensive strategy for improving our water and sewer infrastructure
The Last Person You’d Expect to Die in Childbirth
The death of Lauren Bloomstein, a neonatal nurse, in the hospital where she worked illustrates a profound disparity: The healthcare system focuses on babies but often ignores their mothers
3 on 1: Democratic Hopefuls Target Frontrunner in Second Debate
Phil Murphy’s lead going into the debate meant the other three candidates would be looking to land a glove on him
Constitutional Amendment to Stop Diverting Clean Energy Funds?
For some environmentalists, an amendment won’t be on the books fast enough. They want lawmakers and governor to cease and desist immediately
Governor Signs Law Calling for Oversight of Mental Health Payment Reform
Advocates call it a ‘positive step, yet only half of the solution’
Opinion: A New Jersey Voter’s Guide to State Tax Policy
The focus of New Jersey’s tax policy should be to avoid being notably uncompetitive, particularly within our region
Poll: Did Democratic Debates Help You Home in on a Candidate?
For some folks, the debates are just a bunch of hot air. For others, they’re the key to making a smart choice in candidates. Where do you fall along the scale?
Town Hall Attendees Let MacArthur Have It for His Crucial Role in AHCA Win
The significant involvement of New Jersey congressman in advancement of Obamacare rollback draws an angry crowd
Lawmakers Grill State Officials on Plans to Dip into Horizon Reserves
Governor’s recent quest to force New Jersey’s largest insurance company to pay for certain public healthcare needs not the first time politicians have targeted it
In the Money: What the Gubernatorial Hopefuls Have Spent Thus Far
ELEC’s latest pre-election finance reports put Murphy way out ahead (no surprise), but has anyone come close?
Watch the Democratic Gubernatorial Primary Debate
Broadcast and commentary with NJTV and NJ Spotlight reporters starts at 8 p.m.
As FERC Moves Closer to Quorum, ‘Greens’ Hope State DEP Will Block PennEast
Thus far, FERC lacks power of eminent domain needed to complete DEP’s permitting process
Adding It Up: Economic Impact of New Jersey’s Private Colleges
All told, private schools contribute about $3.5 billion to the state’s economy, a sizable chunk of change from 14 public facilities
Michael Aron on What Makes for a Great Political Debate on TV
A look behind the scenes at the intense preparations going into the NJ Spotlight and NJTV co-coverage of the second Democratic gubernatorial debate
Are Guns and Police Cars the Best Way to Prevent Cruelty to Animals in NJ?
For the NJSPCA, the answer seems to be in the affirmative. But there are other, equally troubling, aspects of this group, which essentially operates without oversight
Leading GOP Candidates for Governor Come Out Swinging, Pull No Punches
At first of two Republican debates, Guadagno and Ciattarelli stake out their territories, try to flesh out their visions
More Accord Than Debate Among Dems’ Top 4 Gubernatorial Hopefuls
One clear point of disagreement: the pluses and perils of a state-owned bank
Moody’s: Glut of Cheap Natural Gas Could Depress Prices, Challenge Suppliers
Investment house cautions cheap gas from Marcellus Shale could speed shutdown of coal plants, boost pressure for nuclear subsidies