The Senate Judiciary Committee has approved a bipartisan bill that aims to amend current legislation, allowing public bodies to continue using newspapers for public notices. The bill, sponsored by Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25), Deputy Majority Leader Paul Sarlo (D-36), and Senate President Nick Scutari (D-22), proposes the use of online versions of designated newspapers for publishing public notices and legal advertisements until March 31, 2025.
Senator Bucco commented on the measure, stating, “This stop-gap measure will give us time to establish a plan that both recognizes and utilizes technological advancements while maintaining the familiarity and transparency that constituents are accustomed to.” He emphasized the importance of slowing down the process to involve all stakeholders in finding a suitable solution.
The initiative comes in response to the anticipated closure of several major print newspapers in New Jersey, which has caused confusion among local governments regarding compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.
The full text of the bill (S-3957) is available for public access.
