TRENTON, NJ — On July 21, two bills designed to protect the rights of transgender persons became law. Legislation sponsored by state senators M. Teresa Ruiz and Joseph Vitale requiring the commissioner of education to develop guidelines for school districts to protect transgender students was signed into law by Gov. Chris Christie. “We must ensure […]
TRENTON, NJ — Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats John McKeon, Mila Jasey and Valerie Vainieri Huttle to ensure stiff penalties for anyone who commits vehicular homicide while driving drunk is now law. The new law, A-3686, known as “Ralph and David’s Law,” establishes a new crime of “strict liability vehicular homicide” for killing a […]
TRENTON, NJ — Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats John McKeon, John Burzichelli, Troy Singleton and Marlene Caride to help protect sensitive taxpayer information is now law. The new law, A-4994, requires certain state and local government agency employees with access to federal tax information to undergo criminal history background checks. The measure enables New Jersey […]
TRENTON, NJ — Legislation sponsored by state senators Richard J. Codey and Joseph F. Vitale raising the minimum age to buy tobacco products and electronic smoking devices from 19 to 21 years of age in New Jersey was signed into law by Gov. Chris Christie on July 21. “The governor and I have finally found […]
DREAMS works to change culture, outcomes in county
ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Domestic violence has long-lasting repercussions beyond the immediate effects of pain, fear and injury. A family touched by domestic violence can struggle to regain its footing, plagued by physical and emotional reminders of its trauma. In Essex County, these families receive help from DREAMS, a program from FAMILYConnections that aims to […]
Operating budget keeps fares stable; capital budget continues financial commitment to enhance overall customer experience
NEWARK, NJ — The NJ Transit Board of Directors adopted a Fiscal Year 2018 operating budget and capital program on July 12 that supports continued investments in infrastructure and equipment to maintain the system in a state of good repair and enhance the overall customer experience, according to a press release from NJ Transit. “NJ […]
ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — It is no easy feat to raise children in this day and age. There are many external stressors and unavoidable family issues that can make this even more difficult. Through its Parents As Teachers program, FAMILYConnections identifies at-risk families and provides one-on-one help to ensure everyone in a home remains safe. […]
ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — As the season continues, with summer heat and activities in full swing, New Jersey American Water offers tips to help avoid the water overuse pitfalls that frequently happen during this time of year. These tips and insights are designed to help people save money while alleviating stress on water supplies and […]
ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Heading into summer vacation, many parents and guardians become concerned with how their children will fill their time. Unstructured time can be dangerous, especially for teenagers who may have access to drugs or alcohol. Luckily, Essex County parents and guardians can count on ADAPT to help them steer their children in […]
TRENTON, NJ — Citizens interested in running for local school board office must file nominating petitions with their county clerk by 4 p.m. on Monday, July 31, for their names to appear on the Nov. 7 General Election ballot. Nominating petitions must be signed by at least 10 registered voters of the school district. Information […]