This bill establishes new procedures for the termination and extension of state of emergency and public health emergency declarations issued by the Governor of New Jersey. It allows the Legislature to terminate such declarations by a two-thirds affirmative vote of both Houses and limits the duration of these declarations to 60 days unless an extension is approved by the Legislature. The bill also stipulates that the Governor must provide written notice to the Legislature at least seven business days prior to seeking an extension, detailing the need for the extension and any associated public health or safety threats. If the notice is not provided in time, the declaration will automatically terminate unless the Legislature approves an extension.
Additionally, the bill prohibits the Governor from issuing a new declaration for the same emergency once a declaration has been terminated, except under specific circumstances. It allows the Legislature to conduct votes on resolutions through various means, including remote methods. The bill also includes provisions for the automatic termination of any existing declarations related to the COVID-19 pandemic or other emergencies that have been in effect for more than 60 days as of the bill's effective date, unless a concurrent resolution for extension is passed. Overall, the bill aims to enhance legislative oversight over emergency declarations while ensuring timely communication and accountability from the Executive Branch.