October 2026 New Jersey GRAC Update
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Legislative Update
State Street Associates is actively working with NESPA on A1995, legislation addressing heat stress in the workplace. We are currently gathering feedback from stakeholders to better understand the bill’s potential impact on the pool and spa industry and identify areas where further changes may be needed. Working closely with NESPA, we are engaging with key stakeholders and policymakers to advocate for practical, reasonable improvements that address heat safety concerns while recognizing the unique needs of our industry.
The current legislation represents progress from the original bill, A1973, which was introduced last legislative session. While improvements have been made, we believe there are additional opportunities to refine the language and ensure the requirements are practical and workable for NESPA members. We will continue to collect industry feedback and work with NESPA and legislative stakeholders to pursue constructive changes as the bill moves forward.
Senator Latham Tiver (R-8) introduces Senate Bill 4814 - establishes "New Jersey Youth Water Safety and Drowning Prevention Act"; makes appropriation. Senate Bill 4814 is the Senate version of Assembly Bill 5405, sponsored by Assemblywoman Maureen Rowan (D-2).
This bill establishes the New Jersey Youth Water Safety and Drowning Prevention Act, which directs the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) to create and administer a statewide swimming lesson voucher program for young children. Senate Bill 4814 and Assembly Bill 5405 also standardize drowning-prevention education for new parents.
While Senate Bill 4814 is currently proposed for introduction and has not been assigned to a Senate Committee, Assembly Bill 5405 is currently assigned to the Assembly Children, Families and Food Security Committee and is awaiting action.
Lieutenant Governor Update
New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell (D) recently resigned after the findings of an independent investigation into his conduct was released. The investigation was initiated by the Chief Ethics Officer, after members of the Sherrill administration received complaints. The investigation was conducted and led by a former Republican New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino.
According to the findings of the investigation, the Lieutenant Governor failed to uphold the responsibilities of his office and demonstrated a pattern of behavior that did not meet the standards of the Sherrill Administration. The pattern that the investigation uncovered, included repeated violations of state policy, which encompassed ethical lapses and sexual harassment concerns.
Former Lieutenant Governor Caldwell has denied these accusations, but resigned as not to be a distraction to Governor Sherrill and her administration.
Sherrill will have forty-five days from the effective date of Caldwell’s resignation to appoint a replacement. Caldwell also served as the New Jersey Secretary of State and resigned from that position as well. Governor Sherrill temporarily appointed Shirley Emehelu, the current acting state comptroller, as NJ Secretary of State to oversee the 2026 General Election.