News Flash

Covid-19 Update: Week of November 2

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 2,199 new positive cases and an additional 13 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 249,380 confirmed cases, and 14,616 confirmed deaths. The ...

COVID-19 Update: Week of October 26, 2020

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 2,089 new positive cases and an additional 7 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 236,523 confirmed cases, and 14,546 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.26, and ...

US Conference of Mayors Partnering with National Restaurant Association for Webinar

The National Restaurant Association is partnering with the US Conference of Mayors to host a webinar, “What Will Your City Be Like Without Restaurants?” They will discuss the challenges that the restaurant industry is facing and what mayors can d...

Comments Sought on Emergency Remote Meeting Regulations

As we have previously reported, the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) issued emergency regulations regarding emergency remote meeting protocols for local public bodies. The DCA is also taking action to make these emergency regulations permanent and wi...

Local Government Emergency Fund Grant Application Now Available

Counties and municipalities excluded from the federal government’s direct Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) allocation plan, as well as those counties and municipalities that are currently the most impacted in comparison to their available resources, are elig...

COVID-19 Update: Week of October 12, 2020

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 976 new positive cases and an additional 5 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 217,804 confirmed cases, and 14,413 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.18.&nb...

NJ Delegation Challenges FEMA Sanitation/PPE Policy Change

Bipartisan Members of New Jersey’s Congressional Delegation are urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to reverse a new policy stipulating the agency will no longer provide emergency reimbursement to school systems and local gover...

Bipartisant Problem Solvers Look to Break Coronavirus Logjam

On Tuesday, the U.S. House of Representatives’ bi-partisan Problem Solvers Caucus (PSC) released the March to Common Ground, a framework for COVID relief designed to reignite negotiations on a critically important Coronavirus Relief bill.The 50-...

Governor Takes Action on Bills

Earlier this week, Governor Phil Murphy signed two bills of interest into law – S-349 (P.L. 2020, c.80), which requires developers to offer electric vehicle charging stations as an option in certain new home construction, and S-2380 (P.L. 2020, ...

NLC Seeks Clarity on Permitted CRF Funding Uses

The March CARES Act provided direct Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) assistance to the State of New Jersey and the State’s nine most populous counties. The law allowed those direct recipients to ‘sub-allocate’ some or all of tho...

No Congressional Coronavirus Relief Forthcoming

Yesterday, the U.S. Senate failed to advance a scaled-down Coronavirus Relief measure when a procedural motion to invoke closure was defeated on party lines.The $500 billion proposal would have provided zero support for local and state governments. It wou...

Week of September 6: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 518 new positive cases and an additional nine confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 195,888 confirmed cases and 14,234 confirmed deaths. The rate of transmission is at 1.08. The ...

Governor Signs Coronavirus Relief Bonds Legislation

On Monday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-3971/S-2475, reflecting both the initial intent of the legislation and his recommended changes made through a previous conditional veto. This new law will allow municipalities and counties to issue a special em...

Local Aid Crucial for Economic Recovery

In a recent article, originally appearing in the August 13 ‘Bond Buyer,’ Mark Zandi, Chief Economist for Moody’s Analytics, predicts a ‘double-dip’ recession for the U.S. economy if Congress and t...

FEMA Announces Funding for Hazard Mitigation Grants

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has posted funding notices for two hazard mitigation grant programs for more than $660 million. The two grant programs, the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant and the Building Resilient Infrastructure an...

Week of August 10: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 585 new positive cases and an additional 10 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 187,164 confirmed cases, and 14,064 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,839 probable deaths assoc...

NJ Supreme Court Rules COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act Constitutional

The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that the State’s plan to bond for up to $9.9 billion to deal with revenue shortfalls brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic is constitutional, provided certain restrictions are followed.The case was brou...

President Trump Takes Steps to Address COVID-19 Relief

On Saturday, President Trump signed an Executive Order and three presidential memorandums after talks between the Administration and Democratic leaders on a new COVID-19 relief package broke down. The Democratic leaders are pushing for the HEROES Act ($3 ...

Week of August 2: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 384 new positive cases and an additional 12 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 184,061 confirmed cases, and 14,007 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,853 probable deaths assoc...

Tropical Storm Isaias Update from Board of Public Utilities (BPU)

As of 1:00 p.m. on Friday approximately 300,000 utility customers remain without power statewide, down from a peak of 1.4 million.The BPU understands that being without power is extremely frustrating and is in constant contact with all utilities to ensure...

Governor Conditionally Vetoes CRB Bill

On July 31 Governor Murphy issued a conditional veto for A-3971, which authorizes the issuance of "coronavirus relief bonds" (CRBs) by municipalities and counties. In the conditional veto language the Governor acknowledge the need for local gove...

DLGS Issues LFN on Enery Tax Receipt & CMPTRA Payment Program

The Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2020-17 summarizing the Energy Tax Receipt and CMPTRA payment program for CY 2020 and SFY 2020 extension budgets. The Energy Tax Receipt and CMPTRA August 1 installment payment was 45% ...

Local Aid Among Many Issues Delaying Federal Help

Negotiations over Washington’s next response to the COVID-19 continue, with no end in sight, as Congressional Leaders meet with the White House bargaining team. Meanwhile, and also with no end in sight, municipalities across the Nation, and all ...

COVID-19 Research Volunteers Needed

Please let your citizens know about these heroic service opportunities.First, anyone who has recovered from the virus, who has been symptom-free for at least 14 days, and who is otherwise able to donate blood, could be eligible to save lives by donating t...

Governor Issues Four New COVID-19 Related EOs

Since our last update, Governor Murphy issued four new COVID-19 related executive orders: Executive Order 170, which extends certain statutory deadlines across state government; Executive Order 171 which extends the Public Health Emergency that was declar...

Storm Update from NJBPU

As of 2 pm on Wednesday, approximately 908,000 utility customers remain without power statewide, down from a peak of 1.4 million yesterday. More than 2,000 out of state crews are helping our utilities restore electricity. This includes crews from Canada, ...

Week of July 24: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 699 new positive cases and an additional 10 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 181,660 confirmed cases, and 13,923 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,875 probable deaths assoc...

New Federal COVID Relief Bill Offers No Relief for New Jersey Municipalities

Yesterday in Washington, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell unveiled a new COVID Relief bill. The product of negotiations within the Senate Republican caucus, and between it and the White House, the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protecti...

Coronavirus Relief Bond Legislation Advances, Before Senate

Today the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee released S-2475/A-3971, which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” (CRB) by municipalities and counties. The legislation permits municipalities to issue bonds for th...

Portal Bridge Replacement Project Progress

On Monday, NJ Transit’s Board of Directors approved a project development agreement with Amtrak, moving the Portal Bridge replacement project one step closer to a start. The project, which is expected to cost $1.8 billion, is now scheduled to be...

COVID-19 Rundown: Week of July 20

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 488 new positive results and an additional 36 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 178,345 confirmed cases, and 13,845 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,920 probable deaths ass...

Governor Murphy Announces Main Street Commercial Corridors Relief

Yesterday, Governor Murphy announced a new relief program for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Small Business Lease – Emergency Assistance Program (SBL-EAGP) will allow businesses in 64 eligible municipalities&...

Negotiations Continue on the Second Federal Coronavirus Relief Package

Efforts in Washington continued this week as Federal legislators attempt to negotiate a second round of pandemic relief aid. While many were hopeful to have a Senate bill proposal released before the end of this week, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnel...

Week of July 13: COVID-19 Update

Today Governor Murphy announced that there were 202 new positive results and an additional 20 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19. To date, there have been 176,551 confirmed cases, and 13,710 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,974 probable deaths ass...

Murphy Ok's COVID-19 Borrowing Bill

Yesterday, both the Assembly, by a 46-26 vote, and the Senate, by a 22-15 vote, passed the amended State COVID-19 Borrowing bill. Late yesterday Governor Murphy signed it into law. P.L. 2020, c. 60 authorizes the borrowing of up to $9.9 billion in State g...

Local Aid to be Debated as Congress Reconvenes

On Monday, Congress will return to Washington. Press reports indicate that leaders in both Houses and in both political parties will seek bipartisan agreement on a new legislative response to the economic impact of the Coronavirus.

As the next COVID respon...

CARES Act CRF Guidance Permits use of Funds for TANs Costs

The U.S. Treasury has been using FAQs to expand permissible uses of Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) monies, distributed pursuant to the CARES Act. You can view the latest (July 8) at Treasury CRF FAQs.

On page 7, that guidance states (emphasis added):

&ls...

Week of June 29, 2020 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday the Governor announced that there were 423 new positive results and 45 confirmed deaths resulting from COVID-19 since the day before. To date, there have been 171,928 confirmed cases, and 13,224 confirmed deaths. There are also 1,854 probable de...

Virtual Press Conference Recording Available

Week of June 22, 2020 COVID-19 Update

On Thursday, the Governor announced that there were 406 new positive results and 26 deaths for COVID-19 since the day before. The Governor also announced that they identified an additional 1,854 probable deaths. These are fatalities in which no test was c...

Bridge Budget Bill Introduced

Because of the extension of the State’s current Fiscal Year for an additional three months, the Legislature must pass and the Governor sign a Supplemental Appropriations bill by midnight, June 30. On Thursday, June 24, Assemblywoman Eliana Pinto...

New Law Provides Local Units with Flexibility to Waive Penalties on Overdue Sewer or Water Charges

Last Friday, Governor Murphy signed into law A-4126 (now, P.L.2020, c.39), which gives municipalities, counties, and utility authorities the ability to waive interest and lien enforcement for certain delinquent water and sewer utility payments during emer...

DCA Announces COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Enrollment Period

Department of Community Affair’s COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program (CVERAP) will provide temporary rental assistance to low and moderate-income households that have had a substantial reduction in income or became unemployed due to the...

Time's Running Out for Small Business help

The Payroll Protection Program (PPP), a key component of the Federal CARES Act, will end on June 30. Please let all of your struggling small businesses know that they can apply for forgivable PPP loans, through the Small Business Administration (SBA). But...

Feds Allow State & Counties Flexibility in CARES Act Aid

Yesterday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury again updated its Coronavirus Relief Fund Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) web page. With this update, Treasury is again giving states and qualifying local governments greater flexibility in the use of Coron...

NLC to Host Northeast & Mid-Atlantic Issues Update

Join our federal partner the National League of Cities for timely information via a webinar focused on issues affecting the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region.

The last few weeks have been turbulent and challenging for local leaders. From fighting a global ...

Week of June 15, 2020 COVID-19 Update

On Thursday, the Governor announced that there were 442 additional positive results since yesterday and 38 deaths. That brings the statewide totals to 168,107 positive results and 12,800 COVID-19 related deaths. Yesterday, 73 people were admitted to the h...

150 Economists Call For State & Local Funding in Next Package

A letter urging more Congressional action in response to the economic impact of the pandemic calls for "new assistance to states and localities" as part of new legislation. "An adequate response must be large, commensurate with the...

Share the Message: MunisAreEssential

The League has launched the MunisAreEssential campaign in response to budget shortfalls local governments are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is encouraging local officials to contact their state and federal legislators to support ...

Week of June 8, 2020 Covid-19 Update

Yesterday marked the 100th day since the first identified case of COVID-19 in New Jersey. Since that day, there have been 165,816 lab-confirmed cases of the virus in New Jersey, and 12,443 confirmed deaths. On that 100th day, Governor Murphy reported 539 ...

Please Take Action: Update State Bonding Proposal and Local COVID Bond Legislation

Last week, the State Assembly approved A-4175, the “New Jersey COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act,’’ by a vote of 51-28. This bill authorizes the issuance of $5 billion in State general obligation bonds to be used in response to the...

Week of June 1, 2020 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor reported an additional 603 positive lab test results for COVID-19, for a statewide total of 162,530. He also reported an additional 92 deaths attributed to the virus, for a statewide total of 11,970. Of particular significance was ...

COVID Bond Bill Clears NJ Assembly; NJLM Committee Set to Review Legislation

Yesterday, the State Assembly approved A-4175, the “New Jersey COVID-19 Emergency Bond Act,’’ by a vote of 51-28. This bill authorizes the issuance of $5 billion in State general obligation bonds to be used in respon...

Congress Looks to INVEST in America's Infrastructure

We have received a summary of a soon-to-be-introduced bill – the Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation (INVEST) in America Act. Among other provisions, the bill would dedicate $19 billion, over five years, in L...

Gov. Executive Order Greenlights Outdoor Dining & In-Person Non-Essential Retail

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 150 permitting outdoor dining and in-person non-essential retail effective Monday, June 15 at 6:00 a.m.

Outdoor Dining

In-person service at outdoor areas for restaurants, cafeterias, dining establishments, an...

ABC Issues Guidance on New Outdoor Dining Permits

The Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has created a new permit for licensed premises to expand their premises to allow for reasonable seating capacity while observing social distancing guidelines. The COVID-19 Expansion Permit is available to a...

Surgeon General Urges Continued Precautions

The White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs has been conducting weekly briefings on the Federal government’s COVID response and recovery efforts. League staff has been monitoring the weekly calls for state, local, and tribal leaders. Thi...

Week of May 25: COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor reported an additional 1,261 positive lab test results for COVID-19, for a statewide total of 157,815.  He also reported an additional 66 deaths attributed to the virus, for a statewide total of 11,401.

Also, the Governor s...

Legislature Focuses on State Three-Month Budget Plan

Yesterday in Trenton, the Assembly Budget Committee heard testimony from the nonpartisan Office of Legislative Services’ Budget and Finance Officer, Frank Haines, and State Treasurer, Elizabeth Maher Muoio, regarding Governor Murphy’s ...

Gov. Signs Legislation Setting 2020 Tax Appeal Date

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed into law A-4157, which extends the statutory deadline to file a property tax appeal from May 1, 2020 to July 1, 2020 and provides the County Board of Taxation until September 30, 2020 to render a decision on a tax...

ACT NOW Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program Applications Due May 29

This Friday, May 29 is the deadline to apply for the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding (CESF) Program for state and local municipalities identified as eligible for funding under the 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (J...

MEL Safety Institute CV-19 Resources

The MEL Safety Director’s office has created a central repository on the NJ MEL website for updated COVID-19 information specific to municipal operations, including several bulletins addressing specific subject areas during the COVID-19 pandemic...

Week of May 18: COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor announced that an additional 1,304 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 151,472. He also announced another 98 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 10,843.New hospitalizations continue a d...

State Budget Update

Today State Treasurer Liz Muoio issued a report on the fiscal condition of the state budget. The report indicates that the State can expect an up-to $10 billion shortfall between now and June 2021. The data reflects a shortfall of $2.75 billion through th...

DEP Launches "Mask Up!" Campaign

Today, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced the launch of their “Mask Up!” campaign, encouraging residents and visitors to wear face coverings in state parks, beaches and public spaces. 

The campaign inclu...

Bipartisan Local & State COVID Assistance Bills Introduced in Both Houses of Congress

On Monday, Senator Bob Menendez introduced in the Upper House S.3752, the State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (SMART) bill. Yesterday, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill introduced its companion, H.R. 6954, in the House.

We thank Senator Menendez...

Representative Sherrill to Sponsor House SMART Companion

New Jersey Representative Mikie Sherrill, along with New York’s Peter King, announced that they will introduce a bipartisan House companion to S.3752, Senator Menendez’s bipartisan State and Municipal Aid for Recovery and Transition (S...

Your Action Needed on COVID-19 Bonding

On Thursday the Assembly passed by a vote of 57-20 A-3971 which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” by municipalities and counties. Specifically, A-3971 permits municipalities to issue bonds for the loss of revenue an...

Gov. Signs States of Emergency Law Addressing Timeframes & Deadlines

On May 15 Governor Murphy signed A-3969/S-2392 into law. P.L. 2020, c. 34 provides for local government flexibility with regard to various timeframes, deadlines, and other statutory requirements in order to help them continue to function and meet their ob...

Senator Menedez to Introduce Municipal Aid Bill

Sometime this week, New Jersey’s senior Senator Bob Menendez and Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., will formally introduce legislation that could help all New Jersey local governments. It would create a $500 billion fund to help states and a...

House Passes HEROES Bill with Local Aid Provision

On Friday night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6800–the HEROES Act. The vote, largely along party lines, was 203-199. Though declared ‘dead on arrival’ in the Senate by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, this ac...

Week of May 11 COVID-19 Update

Today the Governor announced that an additional 1,297 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 143,905. He also announced another 201 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 10,138.  

New hospitalizations conti...

Call to Action: Assembly Passes A-3971

Yesterday the Assembly passed by a vote of 57-20 A-3971 which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” by municipalities and counties. Specifically, A-3971 permits municipalities to issue bonds for the loss of rev...

2020 Tax Appeal Date Bill Awaits Gov's Signature

Yesterday both the Assembly and Senate unanimously approved A-4157/S-2387, which extends the statutory deadline to file a property tax appeal from May 1, 2020 to July 1, 2020 and provides the County Board of Taxation until September 30, 2020 to render a d...

Senate OKs Civil Service Transfers During States of Emergency Bill

Yesterday the Senate unanimously approved S-2477, which would permit State and local government employees in civil service to be transferred under certain circumstances. The legislation, which the League supports, awaits consideration by the Assembly.

S-24...

Timeline, Deadline Bills on Governor's Desk

Yesterday both the Assembly, by a vote of 70-6, and the Senate, by a vote of 37-1, passed A-3969/S-2392, which provides for local government flexibility with regard to various timeframes, deadlines, and other statutory requirements in order to he...

HEROES Act Includes Hometown Help

On Wednesday, Jerome Powell, Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, raised the specter of a devastating multiyear recession if Congress and the White House do not authorize more aid to address the COVID pandemic’s economic fallout. “Ad...

HEROES Act Would Aid All NJ Municipalities

Yesterday in Washington, The Chairs of 12 key House Committees, including New Jersey Congressman Frank Pallone, introduced legislation that would, in addition to several other items, provide substantial, flexible, and assured funding to every municipality...

Register Now: NLC Events May 12 and 13

Our Federal Partners at the National League of Cities (NLC) have scheduled three learning opportunities this week, meant to help local officials navigate the recovery. Here they are.

a. WEBINAR | Doubling Down on an Equitable and Resilient Recovery | Tuesd...

Federal OSHA COVID Resources & Information Available

Federal OSHA has asked us to share their resource page with you. It includes links to posters, flyers, and information about business reopening, general workplace Covid-19 safety, and industry-specific safety, such as transportation, healthcare, ...

Senate Budget Committee Releases S-2387

Yesterday the Senate Budget Committee released S-2387, which extends the statutory deadline to file a property tax appeal from May 1 to July 1 and provides the County Board of Taxation until September 30 to render a decision on a tax appeal. The deadline ...

Urging Support for A-3971/S-2475 Permissive COVID-19 Reflief Bills

Yesterday the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee released A-3971 which authorizes the issuance of “coronavirus relief bonds” by municipalities and counties. Specifically, A-3971 permits municipalities to issu...

Week of May 4 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday, the Governor announced an additional 1,827 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 133,635. He also announced another 254 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 8,801.There were 325 new hospitalizations an...

Call to Action: NLC Cities Are Essential Campaign

Please act on this important communication and call to action from the NJLM national affiliate, the National League of Cities.  Help amplify the message that cities are essential and require direct federal economic relief.

Cities Are Essential. Jo...

U.S. Treasury Guidance Allows CARES Flexibility

Yesterday, the U.S. Treasury updated its Frequently Asked Questions CARES Act guidance. This revision will provide CARES Act recipient States (including New Jersey), and recipient units of local government (including New Jersey’s nine most popul...

NLC "Cities are Essential" Campaign Calls for Direct Municipal Aid

Today, the National League of Cities, our federal level partner and the voice of the over 19,000 cities, towns and villages in the United States, launched a campaign to secure economic relief for all communities on the frontline of America’s res...

Upcoming Legislative Briefings on A-3971 for Coronavirus Relief Bonds

Mayors Keith Kazmark of Woodland Park, Colleen Mahr of Fanwood, and Matt Moench of Bridgewater invite you, your business administrators, and your chief financial officers to a panel discussion on prospective legislation (A-3971) that would permit counties...

Mayors to Discuss COVID Response in Mayors Wellness Campaign Webinar

Mayors Wellness Campaign Webinar

The Community Response to COVID-19 from 2 NJ Mayors

Thursday, May 7th, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. EST

Featured Speakers: Mayor Sara Todisco of Garwood and Mayor Andre Sayegh of Paterson

You Will Learn: 

• &nbs...

Week of April 27 COVID-19 Roundup

Yesterday, the Governor announced that an additional 2,633 confirmed positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 118, 652. He also announced another 460 deaths, bringing the statewide total to 7,228 and 6,137 patients that were hos...

Electronic Submission & Signature of Initiatives & Referenda Focus of EO 132

Yesterday, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 132, allowing electronic petition submission and signature collection for initiatives and referenda. The Order requires county and municipal clerks to accept, in addition to hand delivery, electronic submi...

Gov. Murphy OK's May 2 Park Reopening

Yesterday Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 133 that will reopen golf courses and State parks for passive recreational activities effective Saturday, May 2 beginning at 6:00 a.m. The Executive Order details the activities that are permissive and proh...

Possible Help for Seasonal Businesses

If your municipality hosts seasonal businesses, you might want to share this information with them.

 The U. S. Department of the Treasury has issued final interim rules, effective immediately, designed to allow seasonal businesses to apply for for...

Additional Federal Resources for Local Citizens & Businesses

Please share this as you see fit.Any individuals or families waiting for their Economic Impact Payments–the stimulus checks that most are entitled to–should visit the IRS “getmypayment” site. They may need to file a...

New Federal Help for Local Businesses

On April 24, 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act of 2020 was signed into law. The new law expands and modifies the significant new resources for businesses from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) that were estab...

EO 129 Extends Retired Officer Carry Permits, Allows Range Access

Yesterday the Governor issued Executive Order 129 extending Retired Officer Carry Permits that expired during the Public Health Emergency until 90 days after the end of the Public Health Emergency. However, the retired officer must submit their r...

Property Tax Payment Grace Period Gets Executive Order

Governor Murphy has issued Executive Order 130, which permits a governing body to adopt a resolution extending the grace period for the May 1 property tax payment. The grace period cannot go later than June 1, 2020. A copy of the resolution must be filed ...

Update on Federal Efforts to Aid Municipalities

We want to thank Congressman Andy Kim, who is the latest – but hopefully not the last – member of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation to sign-on as a cosponsor of H.R. 6467, the Coronavirus Community Relief Act (CCRA). This bill wo...

Clarification on Essential Businesses Issued

Yesterday State Director of Emergency Management Patrick Callahan issued Administrative Order 2020-10 providing clarification on essential businesses. The order expands essential businesses to include pet grooming, pet daycare, pet boarding, and ...

Governor’s Office Briefing Calls for Mayors

The Governor’s office is hosting Mayor calls throughout the week. They ask that Mayors especially make every effort to call in as it’s the most effective way to direct important information to Mayors and receive Mayors’ input...

Upcoming 2nd Quarter Property Tax Payment

For the past several weeks we have been receiving numerous inquiries regarding the upcoming 2nd Quarter Property Tax payment. To date, there has been no administrative or legislative action to extend the May 1 property tax payment date. We have issued an ...

Urgent Alert: NLC Update Call for New Jersey

Your New Jersey League of Municipalities is a key member, with all other state Leagues, in the National League of Cities (NLC).

Through that membership, NLC will be launching state calls to share the latest federal updates/insights, and hear questions and ...

Week of April 20 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday the Governor announced that there were 4,247 additional positive results since the day before, and 307 deaths attributed to COVID-19. That brings the statewide totals to 99,989 positive results and 5,368 COVID-19 related deaths.  

The Go...

Municipal Courts Get OK to Resume from NJ Supreme Court Order

Today, the New Jersey Supreme Court issued an Order that allows municipal court sessions to resume, to the extent possible based on facilities, technology, and other resources. Municipal court sessions had been suspended through April 26, 2020, c...

Local Governments Seek Support, Flexibility in Next Federal COVID-19 Bill

When Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act - $2.2 Trillion CARES Act - it included a $150 Billion State and Local Stabilization Fund. Minus funding for U.S. Territories, and autonomous Tribal Governments, about $139 Billio...

IRS issues notice on Scams & Homeland Security Warns on Disinformation

The individual and family ‘economic impact payments’ that come as a part of the CARES Act are going out to Federal Income Taxpayers and others, all around the country. Inevitably, scammers see this as a once in a lifetime opportunity.

T...

Municipal Tonnage Grant Applications Deadline Extended to July 1

In accordance with Administrative Order No. 2020-05, the DEP is extending the April 30, 2020, due date under 7:26-15.5(b) for submitting the 2019 MTG applications to July 1, 2020.Complete applications, consistent with the MTG Guide, are now due to the Dep...

Washington Needs to Recognize Municipal Efforts

At this time–and it could change in a heartbeat–it seems that aid to New Jersey municipalities will not be included in the compromise legislation being negotiated in Washington. There appears to be strong opposition coming from Senate ...

Week of April 12 COVID-19 Update

Yesterday the Governor announced that there were 4,391 additional positive results since the day before, and 362 deaths attributed to COVID-19. That brings the statewide totals to 75,317 positive results and 3,518 COVID-19 related deaths.  &n...

Week of April 12 Bills Signed Into Law

Earlier this week both Houses of the State Legislature met virtually and sent a number of bills to the Governor. The Governor took action a number of these bills.

Please see the League’s April 17 Town Crier blog post for a breakdown of these new ...

ABC Extends Retail License Terms

Earlier this week, Acting Director James Graziano of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (Division) issued an Order extending the term of the 2019-2020 retail consumption and distribution license.  The Order extends both municipality- and ...

League Officers Urge State Leaders to Remember Local Budgets

Yesterday, your League Officers – President Jim Perry, Committeeman, Hardwick; First Vice President Janice Kovach, Mayor, Clinton; Second Vice President Bill Chegwidden, Mayor, Wharton; and Third Vice President Sue Howard, Mayor, Monmouth Beach ...

Congress Considers Local Aid Bills

Legislation has been introduced in both Houses of Congress to provide COVID-19 impact assistance to all New Jersey municipalities. League Officers have sent letters and e-mails to all the Members of our New Jersey Congressional Delegation, urging them to ...

EPA Resources for COVID-19

The US Environmental Protection Agency is updating its coronavirus website to include new resources for state, local, and tribal agencies and intergovernmental associations. These resources will help EPA and its partners continue to provide the environmen...

Resolution & Options for Changing Delinquent Property Taxes Interest

As we approach the May 1 property tax deadline, we would like to advise you of options currently available to you to assist property owners facing fiscal challenges. 

N.J.S.A. 54:4-67 permits municipal governing bodies to establish the rate of int...

Sustainablity Summit Moved to Virtual Content Offerings

In order to adhere to current public health standards and social distancing guidelines, Sustainable Jersey has canceled the June 12 Sustainability Summit. Instead, they are offering four weeks of FREE virtual “Summit-like" content from Apri...

Free Webcast: Cost Recovery for COVID-19 and Beyond

Ernst & Young is offering a free half-hour webcast Thursday, April 16 at 2:00 reviewing how to start tracking costs now at a level of detail that can be analyzed for recovery later — costs may be eligible starting from January 20, 2020.Webca...

COVID-19 Response Legislation for First Responders and Local Governments

Yesterday, the Legislature acted on a number of COVID-19 response bills, including these.

S-2351/A-3924 – Protects paid and volunteer members of first aid, rescue, and ambulance squads from termination, dismissal, or suspension by an employer for...

OPRA Recommendations Issued by GRC, DLGS

The Government Records Council (GRC) has issued a Special Statement regarding P.L. 2020, c.10 and COVID-19 impacts on the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and offering guidance for records custodians dealing with requests during these unprecedented times.

Am...

Primary Election Day Moved to July 7

Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 120 moving the June primary election from June 2, 2020 to Tuesday, July 7, 2020. In addition, any election scheduled between May 13, 2020 and July 7, 2020 is postponed and rescheduled to July 7, 2020. All statutory d...

Congress Introduces CCRA, & FCC, DOL Developments

Yesterday in the House of Representatives, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse, a member of the Speaker’s leadership team, introduced legislation that would allocate $250 Billion in emergency funding to communities with populations under 500,000. Th...

May Election School District Deadlines Extended

As a result of changing the April school board elections to May, yesterday Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 116, extending certain statutory deadlines for school districts with elections postponed until May. The executive order extends the statutory...

Government Technology COVID-19 Resource Page

The New Jersey Digital Government Summit scheduled for May 19 is being rescheduled. However, Government Technology magazine, which organizes the annual Summit with the NJ Office of Information Technology, has assembled a helpful COVID response resource pa...

LEAP Grant Application Period Extended

Division of Local Government Services has extended the application periods for two LEAP (Local efficiency Achievement Program) grants – LEAP Challenge and County Coordinator Fellowship Grants.The application period for both initially expired on ...

Gov. Issues EO 115 Permitting Retirees' Return to Public Employment

Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 115 permitting retirees to return to public employment as part-time, full-time, or special law enforcement for the duration of the public health emergency.The Executive Order, which took effect immediately, permits r...

Smaller Municipalities Seek Federal Support

As you know, the CARES Bill left in doubt federal financial support for municipalities below an arbitrary 500,000 population threshold. Last Thursday, 128 Members of the House sent a ‘Members Letter’ to Speaker Nancy Pelosi urging cons...

Local Governments Get Ok for Further Restrictions on Short-Term Stays

Over the weekend, the Governor issued Administrative Order 2020-08, which authorizes local governments to impose additional restrictions on hotels, motels, guest houses, and private residences for certain guests or seasonal tenants.Contact: Michael F. Cer...

Call for Volunteers in Healthcare for COVID-19 Response

We ask that you help get the word out on the need for qualified health, mental health, and related professionals to supplement our health care capacity on a temporary basis. The Governor’s Executive Order 112 permits doctors that are retired or ...

COVID-19 Rundown: Week of March 30

Yesterday Governor Murphy announced there were 3,489 additional positive results since the day before and 182 deaths. That brings the statewide totals to 25,590 positive results and 537 COVID-19 related deaths. The negative cases are 33,520. These results...

League Queries Property Tax Options

We have received many inquiries regarding the May 1 property tax deadline. We have communicated these issues to the Administration. We will advise you of any guidance provided.Meanwhile, we suggest you review N.J.S.A. 54:4-67 with your Tax Collector and C...

Joint Federal-State COVID-19 Task Force Formed to Stop Misconduct

U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Craig Carpenito, New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal, and New Jersey Acting State Comptroller Kevin D. Walsh have announced the formation of a joint federal-state task force to investigate and prosecute a wide range o...

Clarification of Business Operations & Additional Business Added as Essential Under EO 107

Governor Murphy and State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan, this week, enacted Administrative Order 2020-06 amending which businesses are permitted to operate and clarifying ways in which some businesses may operate in accordance with Executive Order No. 1...

CARES Act Information Update

Posted on our Town Crier blog is a Federal CARES Act Update. It provides information on the $150 billion State and Local Stabilization Aid component of the massive $2.2 Trillion CARES Act. These funds can only be used to fund extraordinary costs, caused b...

Crisis Communications to Crush the Curve

We know how you are rising above the current chaos to continue to serve your citizens. Federal experts estimate that the Country could see between 100,000 and 200,000 deaths before this is through. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If people a...

Power Companies Review Hospital Circuits

New Jersey’s utility providers are taking additional steps to assure power supply to hospitals, medical and care facilities which are so important as part of the COVID-19 response.

Based on conference calls and phone calls, they have advised that...

Urgent Effort: Securing Fedal Funding of all NJ Municipalities

Our partners at the National League of Cities (NLC) have launched an effort to secure CARES Act funding for all COVID-19 impacted municipalities, regardless of size.  NLC Executive Director Clarence Anthony has written to U.S. Treasurer Steve Mnu...

State Budget & Income Tax Deadline Extension

This morning, Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Coughlin issued the following joint statement, “The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused hardships, financial strain, and disruptions for many New Jerseyans and New Jer...

Time-Senstive Response: Fiscal Impact of Pandemic on Municipalities

The National League of Cities and United States Conference of Mayors have worked together to develop a short, easy-to-complete survey to all municipalities to demonstrate the direct fiscal impact of the pandemic on municipal governments of all sizes.&...

Clarification of Business Operations and Additional Businesses Added as Essential under EO 107

Governor Murphy and State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan, yesterday, enacted Administrative Order 2020-06 amending which businesses are permitted to operate and clarifying ways in which some businesses may operate in accordance with Executive Or...

NLC COVID-19 Webinars Offered

Our partners at the National League of Cities (NLC) have scheduled webinars to help local officials dealing with different COVID-19 challenges. We have posted more details for those scheduled for tomorrow and Thursday. Visit Upcoming-NLC-COVID-Webinars to...

CARES Bill Follow-up

The $2 Trillion aid package passed last week in Washington will do a lot of good. But for the State of New Jersey and for New Jersey municipalities preparing their budget, at a time when all face almost certain revenue losses, more will need to be done. P...

NJEDA Grants and Loans Available for Small Businesses

Last week the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced small business initiatives providing grants and loans for small businesses. For more information on the various programs available to small and medium-size businesses and non-profit...

Enhancing Liquidity in the Municipal Debt Market

The Division of Local Government Services notified Chief Financial Officers of new State and Federal programs related to enhancing liquidity in the municipal debt market. On the federal level, the Federal Reserve has expanded the Money Market Liquidity Ma...

COVID-19 Update Week of March 22

Yesterday, Governor Murphy announced that the statewide total of confirmed positive test results for the coronavirus was 6,876. Unfortunately, the Governor also reported that are now 81 fatalities associated with the virus. Both numbers are likely to incr...

DCA Guidance and Temporary Rule Change to UCC

The Department of Community Affairs (DCA) this week issued a Notice of Rule Waiver/Modification/Suspension Pursuant to Executive Order No.103, which temporarily relaxes certain provisions of Uniform Construction Code (UCC). In this notice the DCA announce...

NJ Historic Trust Grant Deadline Extended

In the wake of COVID-19 Civil Service has suspended all civil service exams and training until further notice.

Civil Service Exam Suspended

In the wake of COVID-19 Civil Service has suspended all civil service exams and training until further notice.

Guidance on Fire Code Enforcement Issued

The State Division of Fire Safety has issued operational guidance for local enforcing agencies, providing them with information and suggestions and how fire code enforcement operations should proceed during the COVID-19 pandemic.Some of the suggestions of...

CY 2020/SFY2021 State Aid Remains Flat

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2020-08 noting that no municipality will receive less total State formula aid in CY2020/FY2021 than it received last year. However, the Division does not that the proposed budget se...

Federal CARES Act Analysis Continues

On Wednesday, we posted a preliminary analysis of S.3548, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) on our Towne Crier blog. The bill passed the Senate, late Wednesday night. The House just passed the bill as well. As our analysis...

CARES Act Preliminary Snapshot

See our Town Crier blog for a preliminary rundown on some of the items included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the CARES bill), which the Senate passed overnight. This is the 3rd emergency supplemental measure being passed by C...

A Message from the National League of Cities

Our national counterpart, NLC, conducted two important surveys over the past week–one asking city leaders about their responses to the health crisis and another in partnership with Morning Consult asking 2,200+ U.S. adults about tough decisions ...

NJ Received Major Disaster Declaration

President Donald J. Trump has issued a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of New Jersey. The declaration will provide federal assistance to supplement statewide recovery efforts affected by the COVID-19 pandemic beginning on January 20, 2020. Govern...

Order Expands Essential Retail & Addresses Boardwalk/Beach Access

Colonel Callahan, in his role as State Director of Emergency Management, issued an Administrative Order expanding the essential retail businesses to include the following:

• Mobile phone retail and repair shops
• Bicycle shops, but only to provide service and r...

COVID-19: Free Informational Webinar

COVID Update: Municipal Guidance and Update on LegislationThursday, March 26, 20203:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.Location: Your Computer

We expect a series of new guidance documents from the Division of Local Government Services. At the same time the Legislature is wo...

State Freezes Spending

State Treasurer Muoio issued a new voluntary disclosure statement to bond holders providing detail on the potential impact COVID-19 may have on the State’s finances, including revenue collection and pension fund contributions. The disclosure sta...

Guidance on Budget Deadline Extension, Levy Cap Exemption, and Tax Bills

In response to COVID-19 the Division of Local Government Services issued Local Finance Notice 2020-07 providing emergency budget, levy cap exemption, tax bill and depositing fund guidance. Please see our blog post for information. We strongly rec...

Contact Your Washington Representatives: COVID-19 Emergency Bill

Late last night, we received word that a final deal has been reached on the 3rd emergency supplemental measure in response to COVID-19. If late night reports are accurate, the deal completely eliminates direct stabilization aid to municipal governments, w...

DLGS Provides Additional Guidance on Hosting Remote Public Meetings

In light of the need to maintain social distancing to avoid the spread of COVID-19, along with Governor Murphy’s Executive Order 107, local governments have been encouraged to host remote public meetings. However, many municipalities are unfamil...

First Responders' COVID-19 Training Online

Yesterday, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) launched a new website with important educational resources for Coronavirus workers dealing with the spread of COVID-19. The initiative got underway after Congress passed a supplemental appropria...

White House COVID-19 Briefing Scheduled

On Wednesday, March 25, at 1:00 PM ET, U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams and Senior Administration Officials will conduct a briefing call on COVID-19 (coronavirus). The purpose of this call is to provide State and local elected officials with up-to-date i...

Bill Permits DLGS Director to Extend Deadlines Before Assembly

Tomorrow, the Assembly will be considering A-3902, which permits extension of certain deadlines applicable to local government units under emergency circumstances. Specifically, A-3902 would authorize the Director of the Division of Local Government Servi...

March 23, 2020 Daily COVID-19 Update

At a 12 noon press conference today, Governor Murphy indicated there are 935 new reported positive tests for coronavirus since yesterday, with 7 additional deaths. This brings the statewide total to 2,844 positive results statewide and 27 deaths. He also ...

Additional COVID-19 Executive Orders Issued

Governor Murphy has issued two new Executive Orders. The first Executive Order 107 ordering all New Jersey residents to remain at their place of residence unless they are obtaining goods or services from retail businesses; obtaining takeout food or bevera...

Update on Murphy Administration Actions on COVID-19

On Monday, March 16 Governor Murphy held a joint press conference with Governor Cuomo of New York and Governor LaMont of Connecticut. There they announced that gatherings larger than 50 people will be prohibited. Gyms were closed at 8 PM and remain closed...

NJSC Chief Justice Issues Orders Extending Deadlines for Property Tax Appeals

Yesterday, in response to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 public health crisis, New Jersey Supreme Court Chief Justice Rabner issued an Order extending the filing deadlines for complaints and counter-complaints for local property tax appeals.The de...

NJLM Advocates for Public Employers Representation in Families First Coronavirus Response Act

We have contacted our Congressional delegation to seek, for public employers, the same consideration that has been extended to private employers, concerning paid family and sick leave requirements.The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (HR 6201) crea...

NJLM Delivers COVID_19 Requests to Congressional Delegation

On Wednesday, the New Jersey League of Municipalities delivered letters to Senators Menendez and Booker and all Members of New Jersey’s delegation in the House of Representatives. We thanked them for the steps they have already taken to address ...

Governor Signs EO on Elections

Earlier today (Thursday, March 19) Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 105 regarding upcoming elections against the backdrop of the State of Emergency in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

To summarize, all March and April elections will ...

Senate to Consider COVID-19 Bill Package

On Thursday the Senate will consider the COVID-19 bill package passed by the Assembly earlier this week. The bill package includes legislation addressing budgetary, election, Open Public Meetings Act, Open Public Records Act, and employee leave issues tha...

Social Security Offices Will Only Offer Phone and Online Service

All local Social Security offices will be closed to the public for in-person service starting Tuesday, March 17, 2020. This decision protects the population they serve—older Americans and people with underlying medical conditions—and t...

Federal Update on COVID-19 Response by the National League of Cities

From our colleagues at the National League of Cities we are providing the following brief update on Federal legislative action in response to COVID-19.The White House released new guidelines aimed at reducing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The changing...

COVID-19 Bill Package Released from Assembly

On Monday under emergency voting rules, the Assembly considered a bill package related to COVID-19. At this time the bill text is unavailable but we will provide a more detailed update once the bill text becomes available. The Senate voting session is sch...

DLGS Issues Guidance on Emergency Procurement, Use of Storm Recovery Reserves

The Division of Local Government Services has issued Local Finance Notice 2020-06 on emergency procurement and use of storm recovery reserves in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.  In circumstances where an emergency affecting the ...

Gov. Issues EO 104 on Closings to Combat COVID-19

Yesterday Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 104 instituting various closings and limiting social interaction in attempt to combat COVID-19. The Order:

• Limits all gatherings to 50 or fewer people. Excluded from this is normal operations at airports, bu...

Gov's Executive Order and Press Conference

Later today, we will pass along the Executive Order and other relevant information but here is a synopsis.

Governor Murphy held a joint press conference with Governor Cuomo of New York and Governor LaMont of Connecticut. Gatherings larger than 50 people wi...

COVID-19 Bill Package

On Monday, the Assembly is considering a bill package related to COVID-19. Bills that will be considered are listed below. At this time the bill text is unavailable but will provide a more detail update once the bill text becomes available.  At t...

March 13, 2020 COVID-19 Update

The State is conducting daily calls with designated representatives in each county. We strongly suggest you discuss local concerns with your county’s designated official. We have stressed to both the Governor’s Office and the county of...

Seeking State Waiver on Deadlines and Compliance

The League has begun reaching out to State agencies and departments requesting consideration of waivers and adjustment to compliance requirements while municipalities are shifting resources and responding to COVID-19.

Some of these requests include address...

Civil Service Issues Guidance on COVID-19

Earlier this week the Civil Service Commission issued guidelines and FAQ’s for state employees following the Governor’s Executive Order responding to COVID-19. While most of the guidance pertains to State employees the Civil Service Co...

Governor Declares Public Health Emergency, State of Emergency

Last night, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 103, declaring both a State of Emergency and Public Health Emergency across New Jersey, effective immediately. By declaring a State of Emergency, the State is provided with more flexibility to waive or su...

State & Local COVID-19 Briefing

On Wednesday, March 11, at 1:00 PM ET, White House Senior Administration Officials are hosting a briefing call on the coronavirus public health emergency. If you would like to join, register now. Please feel free to share this invitation with you...

Share Your Cities' Pandemic Plan

If your city has a pandemic plan or related emergency procedures plan and you are willing to share with other cities, please send it to Amy Spiezio ASpiezio@njlm.org. The League will post models we receive on our Public Health Issues page.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources for Local Leaders

Local responses might be essential if the coronavirus (COVID-19) hits New Jersey hard. The League is committed to providing you with the best information and advice available. League Attorney Frank Marshall has analyzed your legal rights during a public h...

Congress Sends Coronavirus Response Funding Bill to White House

Congress has sent President Trump an $8.3 billion emergency funding bill to combat the coronavirus.

The bill, H.R. 6074 (116) includes almost $6.5 billion to the Department of Health and Human Services, nearly $1.3 billion to the State Department, and $20 ...

Administration Asks Congress for Coronavirus Funding

On Monday night, the Executive Branch sent a supplemental funding request to Congress, asking for authorization to spend an additional $2.5 billion to fight the Coronavirus. The total would include unexpended moneys that were originally appropriated to ad...

Coronavirus Task Force Established

On Monday, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 102 establishing the Coronavirus Task Force. The task force chaired by the Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli will coordinate all State efforts to appropriately prepare for and respond to...