PARSIPPANY — Sierra Brda, a dedicated student from Parsippany High School Class of 2021, has earned a prestigious spot on Commonwealth University’s Dean’s List for the Fall 2023 semester. This accomplishment highlights her outstanding academic performance and commitment to excellence in her studies.
Brda, who is currently attending the Bloomsburg campus of Commonwealth University, has demonstrated remarkable diligence and academic prowess. The Dean’s List is a testament to her hard work and dedication, as it recognizes students who have achieved academic distinction during the semester.
To qualify for this esteemed honor, students like Sierra Brda must attain a GPA of at least 3.50 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, they should have completed a minimum of 12 semester hours with letter grades. Achieving such a high level of academic success is no small feat and reflects the student’s commitment to their educational journey.
Sierra Brda’s inclusion on the Fall 2023 Dean’s List is a source of pride for both her and her community. It showcases her academic determination and sets a remarkable example for her peers.
Commonwealth University is known for its commitment to academic excellence, and being named to the Dean’s List is a noteworthy achievement that highlights Sierra Brda’s dedication to her studies. Her family, friends, and the entire Parsippany community can celebrate this well-deserved recognition of her hard work and academic accomplishments.
As Sierra Brda continues her educational journey at Commonwealth University’s Bloomsburg campus, she remains committed to maintaining her impressive academic standards. Her achievement on the Dean’s List inspires all students to pursue excellence in their studies.
Sierra Brda’s name on the Fall 2023 Dean’s List is a testament to her dedication, and her future undoubtedly holds even more academic success. We extend our congratulations to Sierra Brda on this remarkable achievement and wish her continued success in her educational endeavors.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to read.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills has recently conducted an official swearing-in ceremony for seven returning Special Law Enforcement Officers Class III (SLEO). The purpose of these officers is to enhance school safety within the Parsippany-Troy Hills school district.
During a ceremony held on January 4, Mayor Barberio presided over the swearing-in of SLEO officers George Petersen, John Palardy, Fred Arnold, John Orrico, Daniel Cicala, Ed Lepre, and Mike Ruggier.
SLEO officers are retired law enforcement professionals hired to provide security and safety services in schools. They operate under the supervision of local police departments. Despite being funded through the Board of Education budget, they are regarded as integral members of the local police force.
To qualify as a Class III officer, candidates must meet certain criteria:
They must be retired law enforcement officers under 65 years old.
Candidates should have served as fully trained, full-time police officers in a New Jersey municipality or county, or as members of the New Jersey State Police, with a separation from prior service in good standing within three years of their appointment as a Class III officer.
They must pass firearms qualifications as per the New Jersey Attorney General’s guidelines.
Successful candidates will be required to undergo a medical examination, psychological screening, and drug screening following the N.J. AG Drug Testing Policy.
They should be residents of New Jersey holding a valid New Jersey driver’s license.
Applicants must pass a thorough background investigation.
Possession of a New Jersey PTC Basic Police Officer or NJSP Academy Certification is required.
They must be physically capable of performing the duties of the position.
Candidates must provide a letter of good standing from the Chief of Police or Officer in Command of the agency they retired from, including details of their employment, retirement type, and good standing status.
During a ceremony held on January 4, Mayor Barberio presided over the swearing-in of SLEO officers George Petersen, John Palardy, Fred Arnold, John Orrico, Daniel Cicala, Ed Lepre, and Mike Ruggier.
Mayor Barberio expressed his warm welcome to these returning officers and extended his gratitude for their contribution to maintaining safety in schools and the community.
MORRIS COUNTY — The public is invited to attend a premiere screening of the PBS series “Travels with Darley” at the Morris Museum on Sunday, February 18 at 2:00 p.m. involving three new episodes focusing on New Jersey American Revolution sites, including one in Morris County.
“Revolutionary Road Trips” debuts this winter in the Emmy Award-nominated “Travels with Darley” series on NJ PBS and nationwide.
This event is presented in partnership with Morris County Economic Development Alliance and Tourism Bureaus’ 250th Anniversary Committee. Members of this committee include Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Director Christine Myers, who will provide opening remarks at the screening. Former Commissioner Director John Krickus was interviewed by show host, Darley Newman when filming took place in Morristown over the summer of 2023 and is expected to appear in the episode.
From Botswana to Belgium to Bowling Green, Kentucky, Newman has been traveling the world for the last 15 years, showcasing lesser-known destinations that travelers can experience. The new season spotlights many key destinations in three half-hour episodes on New Jersey, the Crossroads of the American Revolution. Site locations include Morristown, Morris County, Monmouth Battlefield, Somerset, Middlesex Counties, Trenton, Washington Crossing, and Princeton.
Darley Newman at Morristown’s Glenbrook Brewery with owners and Revolutionary War re-enactors
Through the never-before-seen content, attendees will experience places in New Jersey where colonial history comes to life. Attendees will learn about historic pubs, restaurants, and homes George Washington and Alexander Hamilton visited, as well as key battlefields, parks, museums, and encampment sites. Darley will also share local spots where you can taste history through unique New Jersey products like Revolutionary Beer and Laird’s Applejack, America’s oldest family of distillers.
The screenings of the new episodes from the long-running PBS series will be followed by a Q&A discussion. Audience members will learn more about hidden gems that they can visit in New Jersey and go behind the scenes on the filming with PBS television host and travel expert Darley Newman. Tom Loughman, Morris Museum’s Executive Director, Craig Schlosser, President & CEO of the Morris County Economic Development Alliance (MCEDAlliance) & Morris County Tourism Bureau (MCTB), and other key experts will also participate in the discussion.
This event is being supported by the Morris Museum, the MCEDAlliance and Tourism Bureau’s 250th and Film Committees, and the American Battlefield Trust, among other partners.
Watch “Travels with Darley’s” new season on NJ PBS now on Sundays at 12:30 p.m. and mark your calendar to watch the first of three “Revolutionary Road Trips” episodes premiering on NJ PBS in primetime!
“Travels with Darley: Revolutionary Road Trips Part I” Wednesday, March 6 at 8:30 p.m. (Princeton, Trenton, Washington Crossing)
“Travels with Darley: Revolutionary Road Trips Part II” Wednesday, March 13 at 8:30 p.m. (Morristown, Monmouth Battlefield)
“Travels with Darley: Revolutionary Road Trips Part III” Wednesday, March 20 at 8:30 p.m. (Middlesex and Somerset Counties)
These episodes will also repeat on Sunday, March 10, 24 and 31 at 12:30 p.m.
About Darley Newman & Travels with Darley
Recognized in Forbes for her “PBS travel empire,” Darley Newman is an entrepreneur, TV host, writer, and producer of Emmy Award-winning “Equitrekking,” “Travels with Darley” and “Look Up” on PBS, Amazon Prime, and networks in over 85 nations. Having led production teams in over 30 nations and 26 states, she’s been charged by an elephant in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, gone free diving in South Korea, taken on the world’s highest commercial bungee in China and explored by mountain bike the WWI ‘red zone’ of northeast France. In addition to seven Daytime Emmy Award nominations, she’s received the North American Travel Journalist Award, the Inspiring Woman Award from Women in Philanthropy and Leadership, two Telly Awards, and was inducted into the Taste Awards Hall of Fame. Her longtime production team includes 14-time Emmy award-winning Producer/Writer Janice Selinger who was formerly Executive Director of NJN Public Television and Crossroads of the American Revolution, Yardville Resident Story Editor/Producer Bob Szuter who produced Morristown: Where America Survived while at NJN Public Television and multiple Emmy Award-winning Morris County Director of Photography Greg Barna. Learn more at Darley-Newman.com.
About the Morris Museum
The Morris Museum—founded in 1913 and located on 8.5 sylvan acres in Morris Township, New Jersey since the mid-1960s—draws visitors from across the region to its dynamic and acclaimed art exhibitions program and performing arts events. Its 45,000+ object collection of art and material culture from around the world joins the art of our time in displays throughout the Museum’s purpose-built spaces and within the historic Twin Oaks mansion, designed by McKim, Mead & White.
About the Morris County Economic Development Alliance
The MCEDAlliance is a 501c3 nonprofit organization committed to providing market-centric solutions and building strong relationships that drive tourism, community, and regionalized economic development through effective private-public partnerships.
About the Morris County Tourism Bureau
The Morris County Tourism Bureau (MCTB) is a division of the MCEDAlliance, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. The organization holds the distinction of being the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for Morris County. The MCEDAlliance & Tourism Bureau receive operating support from the County of Morris and funding through a grant from NJ Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.
The American Battlefield Trust
The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today. The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 58,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War across 155 sites in 25 states. Learn more at www.battlefields.org.
PARSIPPANY — USA Fencing, the national governing body for the Olympic and Paralympic sport of fencing in the United States, today announced a partnership with Avis Budget Group that will see Avis become The Official Car Rental Company of USA Fencing.
As a part of the partnership, Avis will now have a commercial presence and marquee signage along the fencing strip at USA Fencing national events including the North American Cup, Super Junior/Cadet Circuit, FIE Grand Prix, and the USA Fencing National Championships.
The partnership between USA Fencing and Avis will support USA Fencing’s efforts to serve its members, achieve international excellence, and grow the sport. Additionally, USA Fencing national teams and staff members will now use Avis for ground travel worldwide.
“Fencing is a sport of precision, agility, and drive,” said USA Fencing CEO Phil Andrews. “We’re thrilled to partner with Avis — a company that embodies those very qualities in the car rental space – and add them to our growing roster of tremendous partners who are committed to helping support the growth of our great sport.”
Avis joins a premier slate of companies who are part of USA Fencing’s newly created partnership program – one that has already grown to the high six figures – which includes partners in categories including banking, beverage, fencing, higher education, and sports performance, among others.
Mayor Barberio and certain Council members in their justification of allowing rich-developers PILOT deals in that Parsippany needs to compete in the market for revenue to maintain its status of expense. However, this competition with rich corporate developers may leave Parsippany on the short end of the deal. The competition here will be between the fiduciary functions of accountants, transparency, and vigilance of inaccurate accounting practices for the next 30 years. Is Parsippany’s present and future administrations prepared for this complex due diligence? How much will this aspect of monitoring PILOT deals cost taxpayers in addition?
So we have now a competition of two opposed or in cahoots fiduciary obligations, one by the developers, and one hopefully by the municipality.
Note: A fiduciary is someone who manages money or property for someone else. When you’re named a fiduciary and accept the role, you must – by law – manage the person’s money and property for their benefit, not yours.
The key here is “for their benefit, not yours”.
With this definition of “fiduciary” how do we insure the municipality’s fiduciary obligation against a rich developer’s ability to employ expert tax accountants who apply all the tax evasions and loopholes?
With this administration’s fast-track and final blighted council actions in passing six additional PILOT deals, they based their contentions of approval on a developer presentation material posted on the official website on December 28, 2023, after the already done deal, set into motion by the Mayor and his returning partner Attorney Inglesino; “The Truth about the Proposed Parsippany PILOTS by the Numbers”. This developer’s publication substituted for any due diligence by the approving Council and shows pros, not cons.
We must ask the following questions. How exactly will Parsippany guarantee oversight obligations in review of the annual audits, that are required by state statute, local ordinance, and the financial agreement? Will this be performed by the Town, or will the Town need to hire additional accountant enforcements, and at what costs; considering the various PILOTs and LLC entities involved in the redevelopment projects and possible loopholes over the 30 years?
Known Historical Performance and Oversight of PILOTS the report: Keith S. Balla accountants and advisers’ insights to be considered below are also truths and realities.
Municipalities do not ensure that all required documents are received for construction projects and costs and support.
No consistent audit standards relative to what the municipality requires to consider an audit complete
Limited cursory review of audits by the municipality administration, Reasonable doubt as to whether this review is adequate because of in-depth professional accountants and auditors who are experienced and trained.
No outside or third-party reviews were conducted to ensure the appropriateness of submitted entity audits.
PILOTS require an extra level of oversight and scrutiny to avoid cheating. PILOTS are not straightforward for computing property taxes as the assessment process, which leaves room for developers and property owners to cheat. Examples:
Structure a master lease with an affiliated entity to artificially lower the revenue of the PILOT entity. The master lease affiliated entity then collects the higher rents from all the actual tenants and the developer builds up additional profits in its affiliate by underpaying the percentage of the PILOT based on the artificially lower revenue paid by the affiliate.
Structure the operations with a lower base rent and separately invoice tenants for reimbursed expenses. The developer, then based on the definition in the agreement for rent, excludes the reimbursed expenses from revenue to underpay the city.
Further Questions:
Q: Why was not the UPS PILOT deal initiated in 2016, or the 1515 Route 10 already agreed to, used as a model for comparison as to the benefits? Has the town assured payments from these PILOTS have been accurate?
Q: How many corporate tax rateables have put in for tax reductions; and how many if any have been approved?
Q: If the rateable chase has benefited Parsippany, and is now allowing PILOT deals, why is the water/sewer surplus still being used for other purposes?
Q: At the last public meeting no details of the PILOTS were as yet revealed, and Councilman Musella brought this to public knowledge. Is Parsippany again following Attorney Inglesino blindly? He has not served Parsippany well in the past, and why would be suddenly change?
Our former President bragged about how he used the system and considered himself “smart” for beating the system, with his law firm allies.
Parsippany did itself no favors by its recent actions, that smell of corruption in campaign finance kickbacks from these developers. Will municipal cursory review expose these possibilities to the public?
PARSIPPANY — The property, situated in Lake Parsippany at 274 Halsey Road, was listed by Andrea Martone of REALTY EXECUTIVES PLATINUM and found a buyer represented by Danielle Visconti from CENTURY 21 Christel Realty. It spent approximately 50 days on the market, starting from November 1, 2023, with an initial listing price of $425,000. It sold for 9% over the listed price. Ultimately, it was sold on December 20, 2023, for a final price of $465,000. This single-family home, dating back to 1965, offers three bedrooms, an updated bathroom, an eat-in kitchen, a fully finished basement, hardwood flooring, vinyl siding, energy-efficient windows, and a deck off the kitchen, among other features. Notably, the property also includes a Carbon Monoxide Detector, Dryer, Kitchen Exhaust Fan, Microwave Oven, Range/Oven-Electric, Refrigerator, and Washer. The property tax for 2023 amounted to $7,205.
Upon entering, you’ll step into a welcoming Living/Dining Combo adorned with beautiful hardwood flooring.A spacious and updated bathroom.
PARSIPPANY — While law enforcement efforts to date have shown great promise, auto theft remains a problem in Parsippany and throughout Morris County. Continued cooperation by our citizens is vital to reducing theft opportunities when cars are left unsecured.
Residents/citizens are reminded to always lock their vehicles and residences and to remove all fobs and valuables from inside their cars, even if the vehicles are parked in the driveway or inside the garage.
Of the vehicles stolen in Morris County so far in 2023, 72% percent of vehicles were left unlocked. Major hotspot municipalities in the county include Parsippany, Morris Township, Montville, Morristown, and Mountain Lakes. Popular vehicles targeted by thieves include BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, and Honda.
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Intelligence Unit, Morris County Auto Theft Task Force, and Morris County Sheriff’s Trends and Analysis Team (MCSTAT) have remained focused on combating the trend of organized thieves stealing unlocked vehicles. These criminal enterprises have capitalized on unsecured vehicles to steal a significant number of vehicles, targeting neighborhoods where they suspect vehicles are unlocked. Thieves often operate overnight and target luxury vehicles. These criminals have been known to steal other vehicles to commit violent crimes, including robberies.
Parsippany
Morris County
New Jersey
2020
32
269
11,785
2021
43
240
14,416
2022
38
273
15,816
2023
24
269
16,605
Morris County accounts for 1.6% of vehicle thefts statewide. Recent criminal behavior has included utilizing unsecured vehicles to commit burglaries and home invasions, escalating the danger of confrontation with homeowners.
We also ask you to help us solve crimes by reporting any suspicious activity that you view on your surveillance cameras. Even if you are not the victim of a crime, sharing information with law enforcement can potentially assist with solving other thefts. If you have access to any suspicious camera footage, please provide a copy of it to your local Police Department.
Morris County Law Enforcement is working collectively to disrupt these organized thieves. The MCPO Intelligence Unit, Morris County Police Chiefs Association, and Morris County Sheriff’s Office maintain the Auto Theft Task Force. These agencies devote resources and staff to develop intelligence and target the individuals responsible for victimizing property owners residing in Morris County, and work collaboratively with the New Jersey State Police to target organized criminal auto theft activity.
Another such strategy is the purchasing and utilization of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR), at key locations through Morris County and New Jersey, in a coordinated statewide network to disrupt crime. This technology is implemented through the guidelines set by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
Law enforcement is asking the public to do their part by taking preventative steps to secure their homes, garages, and motor vehicles. Together, law enforcement and residents can help prevent these crimes from occurring.
Morris County Prosecutor Carroll stated: “The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Intelligence Unit works in conjunction with local law enforcement and is guided by intelligence to address this criminal trend. A great number of cars stolen in Morris County were taken because the key fob was left inside. We implore residents not to allow criminals to take advantage of their forgetfulness – get into the routine of taking your fob with you when you park. Alarmingly, there have been instances of thieves using garage door openers to access homes, potentially setting up a confrontation with residents.”
Sheriff Gannon said: “The Morris County Sheriff’s Office and our law enforcement partners set goals and objectives focused on safety. The safety of others and the safety of other’s personal property. Both are affected when a car theft occurs. Property is lost when a vehicle is stolen and often, that vehicle is used to commit crimes against others. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Trends and Analysis Team are working diligently to ensure everyone’s safety and that their property is secure. Please do your part and be mindful of this crime trend. Be vigilant in securing your vehicle properly and be sure to share any captured alarming or odd surveillance footage with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency.
Parsippany Focus reached out to Parsippany Police Chief Richard Patina for a statement, but he chose not to provide one.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad installed it officers at a recent Installation Dinner held at Birchwood Manor.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio read the Oath of Office to Meredith Persson Secretary. Kaitlyn Somers, Trustee, Ann Moorhead, Treasurer, LiYing Wei, President, Russ Prokop, Trustee, Mark Turo, Trustee, Betsy Lowry, Chief, Michael Spillert, Vice President, Sophia Lowery, Trustee. Unfortunately Chris Miller, Deputy Chief and Melinda Ernst, Captain was unable to attend but will be installed at a later date.
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance has a very active Junior Squad, who are between the ages of 16 and 17 who work with the members over age 18 to gain experience in the field of Emergency Medical Services. If you ever have any questions about anything pertaining to the squad, its members or the services we provided, please call the business number (973) 887-3003, Monday through Friday 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Leave a message if no one answers on extension 10, with your name, phone number and the reason for your call.
As always dial 9-1-1 for any emergencies.
Among our junior volunteers are Ahil Tomy, Nitya Patel, Sanjay Kesavan, Aadi Gadekar, Kelly Lu, Pearl Wei, Ekta Dhotye, and Abigail Thurkauf
MORRIS COUNTY — If you’ve been the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, it can be daunting to take legal action. Many steps must be taken to ensure justice is served, but perhaps the most important one involves seeking compensation. The amount of possible financial restitution varies depending on factors like the severity of the injury and how much wrong was done to you; however, familiarizing yourself with what to expect is an essential part of taking care of yourself in such a stressful situation. In this blog post, we’ll break down all aspects concerning compensation for nursing home abuse claims so that if zeroing in on financial gain is your main priority, you’ll know exactly where to turn next and have accurate expectations from start to finish.
What is Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Nursing home abuse and neglect are serious issues facing the elderly today. Unfortunately, it is estimated that over 10% of nursing home residents are victims of some form of abuse. Abuse can be both physical and emotional, including hitting and verbal threats. In addition to physical abuse, neglect can take forms like inadequate healthcare or nutrition, unsanitary living environments, being left alone for extended periods, or even exploitation for financial purposes. It’s important to recognize these troubling behaviors as signs of mistreatment, so family members and caretakers remain vigilant and can intervene quickly to protect vulnerable loved ones from any harm that may come to them.
Understanding Compensatory Damages and Reimbursement Claims
Compensatory damages and reimbursement claims are financial compensation offered to those who have suffered severe harm or injury due to another entity’s negligence. Nursing home falls resulting in serious injuries, like broken bones and traumatic brain injuries, are considered liable losses that could lead to hundreds of thousands of dollars worth in compensation. If you or someone you know has suffered an injury due to someone else’s carelessness, be sure to understand more about compensatory damages and reimbursement claims so that they can pursue their legal rights and receive the justice they deserve.
Identifying Qualifying Victims of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Identifying victims of nursing home abuse and neglect can be daunting, particularly when their diminished mental or physical state makes it difficult for them to report the wrongdoing. It is crucial for family members and friends of patients in nursing homes to remain vigilant and observe behavior that could indicate abuse or neglect. Such behaviors could include avoidance of eye contact with staff, frequent changes in attitude towards the facility, unexplained absences from activities, sudden weight loss/gain, depression, anxiety, or other emotional expressions of discomfort. In addition, any bruising or other physical injuries should prompt further inquiry into the patient’s well-being. Early detection of potential issues can help ensure that vulnerable nursing home residents are properly cared for and protected from harm.
Statute of Limitations on Filing a Claim for Compensation in a Nursing Home Abuse Case
Survivors of nursing home abuse may take comfort in knowing that the statute of limitations to bring a compensation claim is typically generous. Depending on the state and jurisdiction, they may have as many as two years or up to four years or more in some cases. Generally speaking; however, serious injuries – such as those due to acts of willful misconduct are usually subject to shorter filing periods and could require filing a claim within one year. Knowing when the statutes of limitation run out is key for survivors attempting to sue for compensation for their losses. It’s important to review applicable federal and state laws to determine the time limit since the statute of limitations can vary from case to case. With diligent scholarship on behalf of survivors, an experienced attorney can ensure that no potential compensation window is overlooked.
Proving Negligence and Liability in Nursing Home Abuse Cases
Proving negligence and liability in nursing home abuse cases is a complex process. Often, witnesses are few, as elderly victims can become disoriented or afraid to speak up for fear of retribution. In some states, the legal system requires that multiple sources of evidence and testimony must be provided to win a case. This can prove challenging when covering up and intimidation tactics are used against victims, making it hard to find and trust other individuals willing to testify. Fortunately, due to the rise in awareness of the severe nature of nursing home abuse, governments have begun imposing strict regulations on these facilities with stiff penalties for those found guilty. With an experienced attorney and thorough examination of records, including financial statements and hiring practices, survivors and their families may finally be able to bring justice against those responsible.
Calculating the Amount of Compensation You Can Receive for Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect
When it comes to calculating the amount of compensation you can receive for nursing home abuse or neglect, there are a few factors that you need to take into account. The severity of the abuse or neglect is one of the first things that need to be assessed, along with any medical expenses you incurred. It’s also helpful to examine whether the abuse or neglect caused long-term physical or emotional suffering. Furthermore, looking into state and federal laws concerning residents’ rights in nursing homes can help determine if punitive damages are available for compensatory rewards. Ultimately, getting legal representation from an experienced attorney in this area can help you get all appropriate legal compensation for your suffering and loss.
Concluding Thoughts
Taking the necessary steps to prevent nursing home abuse and neglect is critical in providing safe and quality care for those most vulnerable. By understanding the specifics of a nursing home abuse and neglect case, victims can seek compensation to cover their damages. Awareness of the types of damages that can be covered and who qualifies as a victim is essential in making informed decisions on filing claims. Proving negligence and liability are vital components when calculating compensation. Finally, it’s important to note that claims must be filed within specific deadlines or statutes of limitations in order to be considered valid. Researching any potential for abuse or neglect before committing to a facility, or even having someone frequently stay with your loved one if admitted into one, will provide optimal protection from such atrocities. It’s our social responsibility to ensure that those who require close watch receive competent care so they can live safe and happy lives.
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed S2249/A4211, which revises the number of disabled veterans’ businesses required to designate a set-aside contract from three to two. The “Set-Aside Act for Disabled Veterans’ Businesses” had established a goal for contracting agencies to set aside at least three percent of their contracts for disabled veterans’ businesses, but the act required that at least three disabled veterans’ businesses be reasonably likely to bid for a contract for the set-aside to apply to the contract. The legislation signed today underscores Governor Murphy’s commitment to promoting economic opportunity among New Jersey veterans.
“It is our obligation – not just as elected officials, but as fellow Americans – to do everything in our power to dismantle obstacles to opportunity for our state’s veterans,” said Governor Murphy. “In recognition of the extraordinary sacrifices made by our disabled veterans and the considerable challenges they continue to face, this legislation will provide a much-needed boost to veteran-owned businesses striving to secure a foothold in our growing economy.”
“This law reflects our collective commitment to supporting Veteran-owned businesses,” said Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, Commissioner of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and The Adjutant General of New Jersey. “I encourage all Veteran business owners to register and continue to update their credentials with New Jersey Start.” “The Department of Military and Veteran Affairs stands ready to assist.”
“I applaud the Legislature and Governor as they take additional action to help our state’s disabled veteran-owned businesses. While in Congress, I’ve worked to make sure that, after over two decades of war, our nation invests in our returning veterans, whether they’re looking to start their businesses, get an education with the post-9/11 GI Bill, or buy a home with a VA home loan guarantee. I will continue to fight to make sure our veterans get all the benefits they’ve earned,” said Navy veteran and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill.
“As a veteran, myself, I know first-hand the difficulties our men and women in uniform face when they return home. The bill signed by Governor Murphy today will be of tremendous value to our veteran community and can help ease the burden so many are forced to carry,” said Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. “This new law will help veteran small business owners access the means and resources they need to achieve success in their industry. This will benefit our communities and, most importantly, aid those who have given so much for our country.”
“In recognition of the many sacrifices men and women in the military have made in service to our nation, we must do all that we can to support veteran-owned businesses here at home,” said Senator Troy Singleton.“Providing protection and simplifying the process are concrete ways we can assist these courageous individuals as they seek to build, establish, and grow their civilian livelihoods.”
“New Jersey State government should be doing all it can to be a partner in assisting businesses owned by disabled veterans,” said Senator Steve Oroho, one of the sponsors of the bill whose Senate term ended last week. “By making some small but crucial changes, we can cut government red tape, better serve our community of disabled veterans, and make New Jersey a more competitive place for business and job growth. I’m proud this is one of my final bills signed into law.”
“This legislation will align New Jersey with both federal and neighboring states’ requirements, all of which use the ‘rule of two’ when designating set-aside contracts for disabled veterans businesses,” said former Assemblyman Dan Benson. “This, in turn, will make it easier for these enterprises to successfully bid on state contracts. We owe our veterans a debt of gratitude and this bill signing is the latest in a series of steps New Jersey has taken to support its veteran-owned small business community.”
“With this bill, we reinforce our commitment to supporting our disabled veterans by streamlining the process for designating set-aside contracts,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson. “By reducing the requirement from three to two qualified disabled veterans’ businesses, New Jersey is not only aligning with national standards but also fostering greater opportunities for veterans to participate in public contracts.”
“The NJ State Veterans Chamber of Commerce is incredibly thankful to Governor Murphy and the lawmakers responsible for moving this bill forward and signing it into law,” said Colonel Jeff Cantor, Founder & CEO, of NJ State Veterans Chamber of Commerce. “This is the first time in the history of our state that state agencies can set aside prime contracts to Disabled Veteran owned businesses. Since there are so few disabled veteran-owned businesses, and since the law required three qualified bidders to set aside a contract, it was nearly impossible to set aside a prime contract to a disabled veteran-owned business. Now the Governor is reducing that requirement from three to two qualified businesses, we will likely see a significant number of prime contracts set aside. We sincerely thank the Governor for working with the NJ State Veterans Chamber of Commerce, who has been advocating for this bill, and signing it into law. We appreciate Governor Murphy on his focus on improving the lives of New Jersey’s veterans and the New Jersey veterans business community.”
