Governor Murphy Signs Legislation Making Outdoor Dining Permanent

Governor Phil Murphy signed S3608/A4866 into law, making outdoor dining permissions permanent for restaurants and certain alcoholic beverage retailers and manufacturers. The permissions – initially established during the COVID-19 pandemic – were set to expire November 30, 2024, but will now be permanent, offering greater support to the food and beverage industry by facilitating opportunities to expand their licensed premises within designated outdoor space or on public sidewalk. 

“Outdoor dining has proven to be an incredibly successful venture over the past four years, benefiting business owners and patrons alike,” said Governor Murphy. “I’m proud to continue this popular measure and look forward to seeing our restaurant industry continue to grow.”

“I’m pleased that both New Jersey residents and restaurants will be able to continue enjoying this option, which has a positive impact on our downtowns and enhances our communities,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “I’d like to thank the bill’s sponsors as well as Governor Murphy for providing the state’s residents with as many choices as possible.”

“This permanent change to the state’s retail consumption segment of the alcoholic beverage industry is a commonsense approach to changing customer preferences,” said Kirstin Krueger, Interim Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control. “I’m gratified that the pivot we made in 2020 will remain, allowing our industry to stay resilient and keep thriving.”

“During the pandemic, outdoor dining was critical to allowing so many restaurants to stay open, keep employees on the payroll, and continue serving loyal customers. Though the pandemic is long behind us, outdoor dining will remain a staple in downtowns and main streets across the state thanks to the bill signed by Governor Murphy, helping to revitalize communities by attracting more foot traffic, spurring economic activity, and bolstering small businesses,” said Tim Sullivan, CEO of the Economic Development Authority.

READ MORE

Governor Murphy Promotes The Adjutant General of New Jersey

U.S. Air Force Col. Yvonne L. Mays, The Adjutant General of New Jersey and Commissioner for Veterans Affairs, was promoted to the rank of brigadier general in a ceremony officiated by Governor Philip D. Murphy. 

“Brigadier General Mays is an exemplary leader who has served our country with honor for more than four decades,” said Governor Murphy. “Our Garden State heroes are in the best possible hands with her at the helm of DMAVA.” 

“Today, the National Guard faces unprecedented challenges, but we are not alone, nor is this the first time we have encountered such difficulties,” said Brig. Gen. Mays, addressing more than 500 supporters and well-wishers in attendance from the New Jersey Legislature, National Guard, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Veterans Memorial Homes. “Our legacy is built on the foundation laid by the leaders present in this room. Throughout my tenure, I will take full responsibility for continuing and enhancing the excellent work done by these remarkable Americans.”

READ MORE

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Awards Contract for Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District, announces the award of Contract 4B for the Port Monmouth Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project to ANSELMI & DE CICCO, INC., a Maplewood, New Jersey small business. The contract, valued at $61,865,125.00, marks a significant step in advancing coastal resilience efforts in Port Monmouth, New Jersey.

The project is a vital component of the comprehensive flood risk management plan for the region. It aims to mitigate the impact of future hurricanes and storm surges, thereby enhancing the safety and well-being of Port Monmouth's residents, businesses, and critical infrastructure.

“I am pleased to see the Army Corps of Engineers making such a critical investment to protect New Jerseyans from the increasing threat of hurricane and storm damage,” said Senator Helmy. “Climate change is not slowing down, and we must do all we can to keep our communities and local economies safe from damage related to hurricanes and storm surges. I also applaud the Corps for selecting a New Jersey small business to make these vital improvements to our state’s coast.”

“This project began as a promise after Sandy-to rebuild smarter, stronger, and protect our communities from climate change,” said Congressman Frank Pallone. “With this final phase underway, Port Monmouth will finally have the protection it needs for the future. This is a model for how the federal government can partner with local communities to safeguard our coastline.”

“Today marks a historic step for climate resilience efforts in New Jersey,” Commissioner LaTourette said. “We are deeply grateful to our partners at the Army Corps of Engineers and our Congressional delegation for their commitment to the completion of this project. More than a decade in the making, this project provides valuable community flood protection against future storms and sea-level rise, while enhancing and protecting the Raritan Bay shorelines and marsh systems that provide critical wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities. I am proud to join with Senators Booker and Helmy, Congressman Pallone and Colonel Young to celebrate the award of this contract that will enhance climate resilience, create jobs and secure a stronger future for Port Monmouth.”

READ MORE

NJDOL Celebrates USDOL’s National Apprenticeship Week

In recognition of the United States Department of Labor’s (USDOL) Apprenticeship Week, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) is leading the Garden State’s celebration of events across November to highlight the importance of apprenticeship and the creation of new apprenticeship partnerships. These efforts underscore New Jersey’s commitment to expanding professional development opportunities for workers and promoting the value of apprenticeship in the workforce.

Since Governor Murphy took office in January 2018, the state has invested approximately $73 million in developing apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and work-based programs. This funding has led to the creation of 823 new Registered Apprenticeship programs – a more than 100 percent increase – and the onboarding of 21,105?new apprentices. Currently, the state has 9,488 active apprentices in 1,434 programs that span a wide range of occupations and industries.

“Apprenticeships are a cornerstone of our workforce strategy in New Jersey, offering a powerful combination of hands-on experience and education that prepares individuals for successful careers while addressing industry needs,” said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo. “As we celebrate Apprenticeship Month, we reaffirm our commitment to expanding these vital programs and fostering partnerships that create pathways to opportunity for all New Jerseyans.”

READ MORE