TRENTON, N.J. – In an effort to save taxpayer money and modernize communications, the Assembly advanced a bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Jay Webber, allowing counties in New Jersey to send proposed ordinances to municipalities by email.
“We live in the 21st century, where written communications move inexpensively at the speed of light. Why government would insist on remaining in the 19th century, where communications moved expensively and at the speed of horses and buggies, is beyond me,” said Webber (R-Morris). “There’s a reason we call it ‘snail mail,’ and taxpayers and their public servants don’t have to move that slowly anymore.”
Counties operating under the optional county charter law are currently required to mail proposed ordinances to municipal clerks. The paperwork can be up to 25 pages and must be sent to as many as 70 municipalities.
Webber’s bill (A2284/S818) gives counties organized under optional county charter law, which include Atlantic, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Mercer and Union, the freedom to send proposed ordinances by either regular mail or email.
“Every county should be given the opportunity to modernize in order to save time, resources and most importantly, taxpayer money,” said Webber. “I urge the governor to take quick action on this bill.”
The Senate passed the bill unanimously in October. If signed by the governor, the law would take effect immediately.