Rep. Kevin Egan

Maddy summaryThis bill, titled the "John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act of New Jersey," is a commemorative resolution naming a state initiative after civil rights leader John Lewis. It appropriates $2.5 million but does not establish new voting procedures or protections. The bill primarily includes recognition language affirming New Jersey’s commitment to voting rights for protected classes and defines terms like "covered entity" for future reference, though no specific implementation mechanisms are detailed. As it is pending technical review and lacks concrete policy changes, it functions as a symbolic gesture rather than a substantive legislative action.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities (BPU) and electric utilities to establish a program developing 500 megawatts of distributed battery storage capacity statewide by 2030. It mandates the BPU to set minimum program requirements, including specific storage targets per utility, size standards, and enhanced incentives for projects in overburdened communities and redevelopment areas. Electric utilities must submit implementation plans to the BPU for approval, with annual reporting to ensure compliance and cost savings for ratepayers. The program aims to improve grid stability, reduce interconnection times, and lower system costs by leveraging federal funding and avoiding distribution upgrades.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires contractors working on New Jersey public works projects to verify that all craftworkers meet minimum qualifications. Specifically, it mandates that contractors register electronically and provide proof that each journeyperson has either completed a registered apprenticeship program meeting federal standards or has four years of documented work experience (with union members under certain collective bargaining agreements exempt). The law also requires contractors to confirm they participate in approved apprenticeship programs for any craftworkers they employ. These requirements apply directly to contractors bidding on or performing state-funded construction projects.

Maddy summaryThis bill restructures the governance of New Jersey's State Health Benefits Program by creating a new State Health Benefits Commission with 13 members. The commission will include existing state officials, representatives from local and higher education employers, and members appointed by various public employee unions, including specific seats for police and firefighters. A key provision is the addition of a non-voting expert member selected by the other commissioners to provide independent advice on health care plan design. The bill also establishes a new committee to assist with plan design and outlines how members will be appointed, serve terms, and manage conflicts of interest. Ultimately, the legislation aims to broaden representation and oversight in how the state manages health benefits for its employees.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires private contractors performing construction work in New Jersey (excluding public projects or home improvements) to register with the Department of Labor. To register, contractors must submit business details, proof of required licenses, worker's compensation insurance, and disclose compliance with state and federal labor laws (like wage laws and safety regulations). Contractors must also disclose past labor law violations or criminal offenses related to their work. Exemptions apply to contractors already registered under New Jersey’s public works registration system.

Maddy summaryThe Climate Superfund Act (A 3735) holds fossil fuel companies liable for climate change damages by requiring them to pay compensatory payments into a state fund. Companies that extracted or refined fossil fuels during 1995-2026 and emitted over one billion metric tons of greenhouse gases must pay based on their proportional liability, with joint liability for companies in a "controlled group." Funds collected will be distributed to implement climate adaptation projects, such as flood protection, infrastructure upgrades, and health programs in overburdened communities. The Department of Environmental Protection will administer the Climate Superfund Cost Recovery Program to manage payments and fund these projects.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the enabling legislation for New Jersey's Infrastructure Bank by clarifying and expanding the definitions of specific project types it can fund. The changes directly affect local governments, airports, ports, and environmental agencies by providing clearer guidelines on what qualifies as an aviation, marine, or environmental infrastructure project. Key provisions include new definitions for terms like "combined sewer overflow" and "cross-investment," as well as a broader list of eligible entities such as regional transportation authorities and water districts. By refining these legal descriptions, the bill aims to streamline how the bank allocates funds for construction, repair, and improvement projects across the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey's electric public utilities (like PSE&G and Jersey Central Power) to create and submit detailed grid modernization plans within one year of the law's effective date. The plans must include specific projects to modernize the electricity distribution system, such as integrating energy storage, improving storm resilience, supporting renewable energy connections, and aligning with state greenhouse gas goals. The Board of Public Utilities reviews and approves these plans within 240 days, and utilities must implement approved plans within 90 days. To offset potential rate increases for customers, the bill establishes a new "Grid Modernization Ratepayer Relief Fund" to provide grants, prioritizing projects funded by federal infrastructure acts.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes rules for on-demand micro transit programs in New Jersey, which are app- or phone-based shared rides using vehicles. It directly affects New Jersey Transit, county transit agencies, and other operators by requiring drivers to be public employees or contractors who hire existing drivers at equivalent wages/benefits (no independent contractors), and mandating that services expand into transit deserts without replacing existing routes. Key provisions include ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities, providing non-smartphone access options, and requiring monthly data reporting on costs, ridership, and wait times. The New Jersey Transit Corporation must publish this data quarterly, and violations will trigger wage law penalties.

Maddy summaryThis bill, titled the New Jersey Natural Gas Modernization Act, aims to update and improve existing natural gas power plants in the state to enhance energy reliability and lower costs for residents. It directly affects utility companies and the natural gas-fired generating facilities that currently operate within New Jersey. The legislation establishes a streamlined permitting process to allow for upgrades and efficiency improvements at these plants without weakening environmental protections. By modernizing older infrastructure, the bill seeks to reduce emissions, stabilize electricity prices, and ensure a steady power supply during times of high demand or renewable shortages.