August 13, 2021

I. State
II. Federal
III. COVID Update
IV. Also of Interest

I. State

a. NJ Supreme Court Releases Opinion Reviewing Punitive Damage Awards Against Public Entities

This week, the New Jersey Supreme Court released its opinion in Shelley Pritchett v. State of New Jersey, a case which the League participated in as Amicus. In this matter the Court was tasked with determining whether a punitive damages award against a public entity was reasonable and proportional.

The Court maintained prior case law which says, despite their unique status and the use of public funds to payout the awards public entities are subject to punitive damages for claims made under the Law Against Discrimination. The Court did however, reiterate in the Pritchett ruling that trial courts must use a “heightened scrutiny” when reviewing a jury’s award of punitive damages against a public entity. While it is unclear what heightened scrutiny of a punitive damage award would include, it is clear that the Court envisions a different review of such awards when a public entity is involved.

The League would like to thank Robert F. Renaud, Esq. of the Renaud DeApplonion law firm for representing the League in this matter. We encourage you to review this decision with you municipal attorney for additional information.

Contact: Frank Marshall, Esq., Associate General Counsel, FMarshall@njlm.org
or 609-695-3481, ext. 137.

II. Federal

a. Senate Passes Infrastructure Bill, Congress to Consider

On Tuesday, the Senate passed the bi-partisan infrastructure bill, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), by a vote of 69-30, which represents a significant step forward on $550 billion in new federal investments in America's infrastructure that cities and towns can benefit from. The bill includes funding for rebuilding transportation connectivity, investing in water and climate resilience, broadband access, digital equity, cybersecurity, and bonding provisions. For more details on the provisions of the bill please see our recent blog post.

The bill now moves to the House, where Speaker Nancy Pelosi has committed to bring the bill up along with the reconciliation instructions. However, it is not guaranteed that the House will pass the current bill.

As we have previously asked, it is critical that New Jersey municipalities highlight infrastructure needs and successes on social media and tag federal members, especially your congressional representatives.

Using the hashtags #RebuildWithUs and #LeadWithInfrastructure, please share pictures, graphics and descriptions of local infrastructure needs and success stories on your social media accounts. Examples of tweets can be viewed on the League’s Social Media Sample Page.

Contact: Paul Penna, Legislative Analyst, ppenna@njlm.org, 609 695-3481, ext. 110.

b. Census Bureau Releases Data

On Thursday, the U.S. Census Bureau released demographic data that had been delayed as a result of the pandemic. In addition to using this data to redraw legislative districts, the population data from this report also plays a part in federal funding to states and local governments. To access the data and to see the changes in your community please visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s website.

Contact: Paul Penna, Legislative Analyst, ppenna@njlm.org, 609 695-3481, ext.110.

III. COVID Update

Governor Murphy continued to urge New Jersey residents to get vaccinated and reminded vaccinated New Jersey residents to use common sense to further protect themselves.

COVID Data for August 13, 2021:

1,776 new positive cases for a total of 923,673 confirmed cases
9 new confirmed deaths for a total of 23,961 confirmed deaths
The rate of transmission is at 1.28
10,714,661 vaccine doses have been administered, including 5,885,821 who have received at least one dose and 5,229,919 who are fully vaccinated. Approximately 57% are Pfizer, 40% Moderna, and 4% J&J.

Vaccine Information

As a reminder, the Department of Health is providing access to individuals COVID vaccination records through NJ Docket, a secure and free smartphone app Docket, which is CDC approved.

Individuals over the age of 12 who live, work or study in New Jersey can use the NJ Vaccine Appointment Finder, attend a pop-up or mobile vaccination event or register with NJ Vaccine Scheduling System to get a vaccine appointment. Homebound residents who have not yet connected with their local health department, or a home health agency, and who need an in-home vaccination should visit www.covid19.nj.gov/homeboundvax or contact the call center at 855-568-0545.

Contacts:
Mike Cerra, Executive Director, mcerra@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, ext. 120.
Lori Buckelew, Assistant Executive Director, lbuckelew@njlm.org, 609-695-3481,
ext. 112.

IV. Also of Interest

a. Law Enforcement Seminar “Cannabis: The Colorado Experience”

The Hunterdon County Chiefs of Police Association will be holding two half-day seminar on September 7 on the Colorado’s cannabis experience. The seminar will be taught by a Colorado Drug Recognition Expert covering the basics of cannabis, an overview of Colorado’s statistical data and tips for stronger driving under the influence of cannabis. The seminar will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon and again at 1:00 pm to 5:00 p.m. at the Clinton Township Middle School, 34 Grayrock Road, Clinton, New Jersey. To register for the $95 seminar please send purchase orders or payment to Hunterdon County Chiefs Association, PO Box 758, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889.

Contact: Chief Cory Kubinak, ckubinak@clintonnjpd.org