During Visit to I-80 Sinkhole Site, Governor Murphy Requests Federal Funding to Repair Damages

During a visit to the Interstate 80 (I-80) sinkhole site in Morris County, Governor Phil Murphy announced that his Administration has requested emergency relief federal funding to repair damages to the highway and affected area. The Governor was joined by Superintendent of the State Police Pat Callahan, New Jersey of Department of Transportation Commissioner Fran O’Connor, legislators, and local elected officials for a tour of the affected area, which was damaged due to a collapsed mine under the highway’s eastbound shoulder near Exit 34. 

New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) crews have been performing around-the-clock emergency repairs and stabilization work to address the hazards. To expedite repair, the Governor declared a State of Emergency in Morris County, allowing the State to apply for federal funding which may be provided by the Federal Highway Administration if a road has suffered serious damage due to a natural disaster or another external cause.

“For several weeks now, the residents of Wharton and commuters all across New Jersey, have endured major delays and disruptions as a result of the sinkholes that have opened up here on I-80,” said Governor Murphy. “By declaring a State of Emergency in Morris County, we can take the first step toward accessing federal funding to help us to repair this damage. While there is no immediate danger to the public, we will continue to do everything we can to help New Jersey commuters and families can get their lives back on track.” 

“I want to thank Governor Murphy, the New Jersey State Police and local officials for their support and cooperation as we continue repair operations so we can safely reopen the highway,” NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said. “Safety is our primary concern – for the crews working around the clock, for the motorists that have been impacted, and for the residents and businesses in the neighboring communities. As the proactive drilling and grouting continues, we are narrowing in on the area that will require a more extensive repair.”

“The closure of Interstate 80 has created significant challenges for motorists, local residents, and first responders alike, but the public's safety remains our top priority," said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “We recognize the tireless efforts of the New Jersey Department of Transportation and their dedicated crews as they work around the clock to make the necessary repairs and reopen this critical roadway as soon as possible. We thank Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership and commitment to securing the resources needed to expedite this project. The New Jersey State Police will continue to support our state and local partners to ensure the safety and efficiency of travel throughout the region.”

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First Lady Tammy Murphy and NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan Announce CSIT Award of $1.7 Million to 23 Startups Focused on Maternal and Infant Health

First Lady Tammy Murphy and New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) CEO Tim Sullivan announced the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology (CSIT) awarded a combined $1.7 million in grants to 23 New Jersey-based start-ups focused on developing technology, therapeutics, and other solutions to address maternal and infant health challenges. The grant funds support the research and development (R&D) of technologies, products, and services that will enhance the quality of care and service delivery activities to women, infants, and health care agencies. 

“New Jersey is home to some of the most innovative startups in the nation, and it is a privilege to acknowledge their exciting new developments in maternal and infant health,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “The startups receiving awards today will carry on our critical work to ensure New Jersey is the safest and most equitable state in the nation to deliver and raise a baby and ultimately, continue to transform the health care industry beyond the Murphy administration. And, with the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Center currently in development in Trenton, our state’s capital city will serve as an innovation hub ensuring these types of businesses are fostered on a grander scale for years to come.”

“Under Governor Murphy and First Lady Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is exploring innovative solutions to make the Garden State the safest place to give birth, while addressing racial disparities in maternal and infant health,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “These grants will invest in vital programs, research, and services that will enhance the well-being of women and children, and reduce racial inequities in access to health care. Additionally, we are creating more opportunities for young, innovative businesses in the in the state, helping create jobs and a stronger, more diverse economy.”

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Governor Murphy Signs Legislation Extending In-Person Early Voting in New Jersey Primary Elections

Governor Phil Murphy signed S3990/A5370, which extends the in-person early voting period for primary elections and the challenger appointment deadline. Specifically, the bill will appropriate $6 million from the General Fund to extend the in-person early voting period for non-presidential primary elections from three to six days and for presidential primary elections from five to six days. The bill will take effect immediately, allowing voters an extended in-person early voting period for the upcoming primary election. Nearly 1.2 million people took advantage of in-person early voting for the general election in 2024, a record turnout since the establishment of in-person early voting in New Jersey in 2021.

“I am proud to sign legislation to make democracy more accessible here in New Jersey,” said Governor Murphy. “Millions of voters in New Jersey have taken advantage of in-person early voting since its establishment just four years ago. This bill will give voters ample time to go to the polls to ensure their voices are heard by Election Day.”

“Great voter participation leads to a stronger democracy. Which is why, in 2021, our Administration worked to make the state more voter-friendly,” said Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the Division of Elections in her capacity as Secretary of State. “By expanding our early voting period, we are giving voters more time to make their voices heard. Making the voting process more accessible ensures everyone has the opportunity to vote and ultimately, protects our democracy.”

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Joint Statement from Governor Murphy and Secretary of Higher Education Bridges on New Jersey City University Selecting Kean University as Merger Partner

In response to the New Jersey City University (NJCU) Board of Trustees’ unanimous vote to pursue a strategic merger with Kean University, Governor Phil Murphy and New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education Brian Bridges issued the following joint statement: 

“The Murphy Administration is encouraged by the forward-moving progress at NJCU. 

“The State Monitor, NJCU Administration, and Board of Trustees have been collaborating diligently toward a future that sustains a strong public four-year option in Jersey City and Hudson County. Maintaining access to high-quality post-secondary education for students and the community, who have long benefitted from NJCU’s local presence, forms the basis of our shared commitment to the institution's future. 

“The NJCU Board’s intent to pursue a strategic merger with Kean University continues this commitment and marks the beginning of a thorough and deliberative process to unify these mission-aligned institutions. We look forward to working with state and institutional leaders on the path to a successful transition that empowers student success and long-term resilience.”

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New Jersey Department of Labor Assists Federal Workers Impacted by Layoffs

In response to the unprecedented recent increase in layoffs of federal government workers, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) is providing impacted federal employees in New Jersey with direct assistance, as well as job upskilling and career seeker services like interview preparation tools.?

“Here in New Jersey, we value our public servants and aim to empower them with the skills and resources needed to best serve the people of our nation,” said Governor Murphy. “As federal employees around the country navigate rapid changes and uncertainty, I am proud that we are providing accessible unemployment and career assistance to help our workers get back on the path to success.”

"As a former federal employee who had to file for unemployment, I know how difficult this period of unexpected transition must be for workers who have dedicated their careers to public service,” said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo. "Our department stands ready to help valued civil service employees who call New Jersey home receive the unemployment benefits they have earned and career support services they need to find the meaningful work they deserve."?

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