NJ Education Commissioner Announces Retirement
New Jersey Department of Education Acting Commissioner Angelica Allen-McMillan has announced that she will be leaving her cabinet post in January after three years in that role.
“After nearly three decades of service as a New Jersey educator, Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan took the helm of the New Jersey Department of Education in October 2020, leading the Department for over three years during incredibly challenging times for our schools. As Dr. Allen-McMillian has announced her retirement at the end of January, I want to take this opportunity to thank her for her service to the people of New Jersey and wish her nothing but the best in her next chapter,” said Governor Murphy.
Allen-McMillan was nominated in October 2020 after Lamont Repollet left to become president of Kean University, but was never able to win Senate confirmation. No replacement for Allen-McMillan has been announced.
Murphy Vetos Liquor License Reform Bill
Governor Murphy has vetoed a bill aimed at updating New Jersey’s liquor license regulations, citing its inadequacy in modernizing the state’s outdated system. The proposed legislation intended to grant extended privileges to certain alcohol manufacturers and breweries, including the sale of food and the hosting of events both on and off their premises.
Governor Murphy’s decision reflects his demand for a more comprehensive overhaul of the state’s liquor license laws. He has specifically called for amendments addressing the issue of dormant “pocket” licenses and enhancing opportunities for alcohol sales in shopping malls.
The bill now returns to the Legislature for reconsideration, with expectations for amendments aligning with the governor’s vision for a modernized liquor licensing framework in New Jersey.
Congestion Pricing Fees to Impact NYC Commuters
Drivers crossing into New York City could pay up to $15 extra in congestion pricing fees on top of the existing tolls, according to a long-awaited new rate structure released by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority this week.
“Everyone in the region deserves access to more reliable mass transit, but placing an unjustified financial burden on New Jersey commuters is wrong,” Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement. “We are left with no choice than to continue addressing our concerns through litigation.”
Drivers entering Manhattan below 60th street could pay a daily $15 congestion pricing fee with a $5 credit extended for those using the Lincoln and Holland tunnels, but not the George Washington Bridge, which has been a major sticking point for New Jersey officials. Commercial vehicles would face higher fees.
EDA Offers New Grant Program for Commercial Properties
Last week, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority board approved the creation of NJ Cool, a $15 million pilot program that will provide grants to commercial building owners and tenants undertaking retrofit construction projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions from existing commercial buildings.
The NJEDA will provide grants of up to $1 million to applicants for eligible hard construction costs for energy efficiency projects, such as updating a building’s heating and cooling system.
Applications are expected to open in 2024 and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Click here for more details.
The program will start as a pilot for projects in Atlantic City, Edison and Newark — three communities the state has identified as having a significant number of commercial buildings that will be potential applicants for the program.
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