Murphy signs bill to protect marginalized communities in NJ from pollution “Residents in our environmental justice communities have suffered adverse health conditions at rates many times higher than residents elsewhere,” Gov. Phil Murphy said at a Sept. 18 bill signing cermoeny at Tichenor Park in Newark. “We know that [COVID-19] has been particularly worse for those with underlying health conditions, so it is important … that we send the message that no longer will economically disadvantaged areas of our states be dumping grounds."

After months stalled, NJ Assembly to consider styrofoam, straw and bag ban The bill passed the state Senate in early March, and then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. If it passes the lower house, it next moves to the governor's desk, where he can sign it, reject it, or send it back to lawmakers for revision.

Murphy, top Dem lawmakers reach deal on millionaire’s tax, CBT increase (updated) The income tax rate will be raised to 10.75 percent for every dollar earned above $1 million in exchange for middle-class relief that will come in the form of an up to $500 rebate for families with at least one child with household incomes of $75,000 for a single parent and $150,000 for two parents.