Garden State Times

Westampton has the most players of any city representing New Jersey in the tournament.

Senator Singer Recognized for Senior Advocacy Efforts by Lakewood Square

Senator Robert Singer (R-30) was honored by Lakewood Square for his dedication to advocating for senior citizens in New Jersey's 30th legislative district. At the event "Connections" for women of the 55 and up community, Singer was presented with a plaque in recognition of his unwavering commitment to seniors.In his acceptance speech, Senator Singer expressed his gratitude, stating, "The work that we do on behalf of our incredible seniors is a testament to our steadfast commitment to making New Jersey a place that is great to live, work, and most importantly retire." He...

Guardian’s bill creating state certification process for LGBTQ-owned businesses goes to governor

TRENTON, N.J. – The Assembly in New Jersey has approved a bill that would establish a state certification process for businesses owned by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals. The legislation, championed by Assemblyman Don Guardian, aims to provide recognition and support for LGBTQ-owned businesses in the state.Guardian, expressing the importance of the bill, highlighted the growth of LGBTQIA+ representation in the Assembly, stating, "Last session, I was the only member of the LGBTQIA+ caucus of this Assembly. This year, we’ve doubled our membership....

O'Scanlon Introduces Bill to Protect NJ Drivers from Out-of-State Automated Traffic Fines

Senator Declan O'Scanlon has introduced a new bill, the Automated Enforcement Inoculation Act, aimed at protecting New Jersey drivers from out-of-state automated traffic fines. Senate President Scutari has joined as a co-prime sponsor for this bipartisan initiative.Speaking about the bill, Senator O'Scanlon emphasized the need to prevent predatory fines for out-of-state traffic violations. He stated, "We need to pass this bill to firmly shut the door on this government sanctioned theft and protect our residents from predatory fines."The bill, known as S-3067, would...

New Jersey has 24 basketball players on the court in this year’s men’s NCAA March Madness tournament

By Garden State Times | Mar 19, 2024

Plainfield, Camden and Willingboro players represent New Jersey in the tournament.

Pennacchio calls on DOH to clarify Wide Discrepancy in COVID Deaths in Nursing Homes

By Garden State Times | Mar 19, 2024

Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) has urged the New Jersey Department of Health to address a significant disparity in reported COVID deaths in the state's long-term care facilities. Pennacchio's call for clarity comes following revelations from the Montgomery McCracken Independent Review of New Jersey’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.In a statement, Pennacchio expressed his concerns, stating, “The Montgomery McCracken review is creating more questions than it is answers to Governor Murphy’s COVID response and we do not know who to believe.” He emphasized the existence of...

Bucco: No Room For Activism in the Attorney General's Office

By Garden State Times | Mar 19, 2024

New Jersey's Senate Republican Leader, Anthony M. Bucco, has raised concerns regarding the actions of Attorney General Matt Platkin. Bucco questioned Platkin's recent letter to U.S. District Court Judge Zahid Quarashi, suggesting that the Attorney General may be pursuing his own political agenda rather than upholding the duties of his office.In the letter addressed to Judge Quarashi, Attorney General Platkin unilaterally deemed the use of "the county line" on New Jersey ballots as unconstitutional and expressed his decision to abstain from defending the state statutes...

‘Patients Come First’ launches in New Jersey, announces executive director

By Garden State Times News Service | Mar 18, 2024

A new “patient advocacy” organization, Patients Come First, today launched in New Jersey, announcing longtime New Jersey communications professional Jeannette Hoffman as the group’s executive director.

Matsikoudis bill will cut red tape, free teachers to teach

TRENTON, N.J. – Educators in New Jersey may soon find themselves with more time to focus on teaching rather than paperwork, thanks to a bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Michele Matsikoudis. The bill aims to create the New Jersey Educator Evaluation Review Task Force to study and suggest changes to the current public educator evaluation system.Matsikoudis expressed her belief that the current bureaucracy in the education system is not conducive to improving student learning. She stated, “The bureaucracy of the current system doesn’t help improve student learning.” She also...

Assembly passes Sauickie bill promoting local farm product subscription programs

TRENTON, N.J. – Community Supported Agriculture programs, described as a way for locals to get to know their farmer and their food, will be promoted through a bill sponsored by Assemblyman Alex Sauickie and passed by the Assembly on Monday.Assemblyman Sauickie emphasized the importance of local farm product subscription programs, highlighting the benefits they offer to both customers and farmers. He expressed, "Whether it’s called a club or a program, local farms are offering subscriptions to customers as a way to sell their products and connect with their communities....

Senate Approves Steinhardt Bill That Would Exempt Metal Bullion from Sales Tax

The New Jersey Senate has taken a significant step towards exempting the sale of metal bullion and investment coins from sales tax. Sponsored by Senator Doug Steinhardt, the legislation aims to align the state with others and boost competitiveness in the precious metals marketplace.Senator Doug Steinhardt (R-23) expressed his support for the bill, stating, "This legislation will not only align New Jersey with the laws of other states, but it will treat investment bullion and investment coins like other investments, such as stocks, which are not subject to sales tax.”The...

Space Bill That Would Help Address EMT Shortage Clears Senate

Senator Parker Space's efforts to address the ongoing shortage of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) in New Jersey have taken a significant step forward as his legislation, S-2435, has been approved by the New Jersey Senate.Senator Space highlighted the challenges faced by EMS and rescue squads in the state, emphasizing the difficulties in recruiting volunteers and retaining staff. He expressed concern over the toll the shortage has taken on EMTs, with crew members being forced to work double shifts, impacting their mental and physical well-being. Senator Space stated,...

2021 Average Income Rankings: New Jersey stands at third highest in the U.S.

By Garden State Times | Mar 16, 2024

New Jersey ranked third highest for average annual earnings per resident among U.S. states, according to data obtained from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Inganamort introduces bills to combat human trafficking

TRENTON, N.J. – Assemblyman Michael Inganamort of Morris County has introduced two bills aimed at combating human trafficking in New Jersey. The lawmaker emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, "They are hiding in plain sight, too scared or literally unable to speak up for fear of retribution against themselves or family members back home."Inganamort highlighted the need for reform, stressing, "It is time to take a fresh look at our efforts to combat human trafficking. Among other reforms, we must expand the arena in which we are fighting this scourge."...

Prominent NJ Voices Comment on a Safe, Reliable, and Solvent Transportation Plan for NJ

Prominent figures in New Jersey have shared their thoughts on the Transportation Trust Fund and the ongoing discussions regarding its reauthorization. Christopher Emigholz, Chief Government Affairs Officer at NJBIA, expressed gratitude for considering reforms within the transportation system while addressing New Jersey's affordability and high taxes. Emigholz stated, "We look forward to the continued dialogue about how we increase investments in our transportation infrastructure in a responsible manner."Christina M. Renna, President & CEO of the Chamber of Commerce...

Sauickie introduces resolution declaring March 15 as Jewish War Veterans Day

TRENTON, N.J. – In honor of the 128th anniversary of the founding of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America organization, Assemblyman Alex Sauickie introduced a resolution designating March 15 as Jewish War Veterans Day in New Jersey."Jewish American soldiers have battled much more than just foreign enemies and national adversaries. They have combated antisemitism and injustices and fought for recognition and fundamental rights. As the nation and this state once again experience rising anti-Semitic rhetoric and crimes, it is a moral imperative that we...

9th District Legislators Call for School Funding Formula to Be Reformed