The bill amends various sections of New Jersey law concerning local government budget processes and the management of municipal officials. It establishes new deadlines for the submission and approval of municipal budgets, moving the submission date for mayors or municipal managers from January 15 to February 28, and extending the approval timeline for annual budgets to March 31 for counties and April 30 for municipalities. Additionally, the bill increases the personal penalty for local governing body members who fail to comply with budget-related responsibilities from $25 to $100 per day and raises the permissible amount of a temporary budget from 26.25% to 35% of the previous year's total appropriations. It also extends the timeline for annual audits and financial condition statements, enhancing transparency and accountability in local government financial operations.

Moreover, the bill introduces new requirements for the appointment and responsibilities of municipal clerks, chief financial officers, and tax collectors, mandating that vacancies be filled within 90 days or through shared services agreements. It establishes penalties for non-compliance with these requirements and outlines the conditions under which the director may revoke or suspend the certificates of municipal clerks and tax collectors. The bill also modifies the qualifications and processes for purchasing agents and public works managers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining qualified personnel in these roles while allowing for flexibility through temporary appointments and shared services agreements. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the management and oversight of local government operations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40A:5A-15, 40A:9-28.4, 40A:9-133.5, 40A:9-140.10, 40A:9-145.5, 40A:9-154.6, 40A:11-9, 54:4-66.3, 54:4-66.4