New Jersey Senate Bill SR99

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/8/22
• Passed: 8/8/22

Caption

Permits certain members of Senate to remotely attend and participate in August 8, 2022 meeting due to COVID-19 health concerns.

Impact

The passage of SR99 highlights the state's adaptation to legislative practices amidst health crises. By enabling remote participation, the Senate ensures that its operations can continue effectively even while safeguarding the health of its members. This resolution signifies a shift towards more flexible legislative processes, which could have lasting implications for how the Senate conducts future meetings, especially in the context of public health emergencies.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 99 was introduced in New Jersey on August 8, 2022, in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on legislative procedures. The resolution specifically permits certain members of the Senate to attend and participate in a meeting scheduled for that day using electronic means. This measure was necessitated by health concerns related to the pandemic and is aligned with R.S.52:1-1 provisions, which allow for such remote participation under a declared state of emergency.

Contention

While the resolution appears largely procedural and is aimed at facilitating participation amid health concerns, it may raise discussions around the long-term impacts of remote attendance on legislative transparency and engagement. Concerns might include whether remote participation could limit the public's ability to engage with their representatives directly during significant votes or discussions, particularly in a post-pandemic context.