reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-19 - Contracts between companies for supply of water

48:19-19. Contracts between companies for supply of water
Every water company organized under the laws of this State may contract with any company organized under any law of the State for a supply of water upon such terms and for such times as may be mutually agreed upon. Such companies may lay such supply mains and pipes as may be thought necessary to furnish such supply through any property upon obtaining the consent in writing of the owner thereof, or under the surface of any streets, roads, highways or public places, provided that the companies first obtain the consent by ordinance of the municipalities through which the mains and pipes are to be laid.
The municipal body having control of such streets, roads, highways or public places shall designate the place therein where and the manner in which the pipes or mains shall be laid.
Amended by L.1962, c. 198, s. 195.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-20 - Extension of works

48:19-20. Extension of works
Every aqueduct company which was on March 21, 1888, in existence under any special charter in this State and every water company incorporated under the law of this State, may add to and extend its works to and within any municipality to such extent as may be necessary to carry out its corporate purposes, provided municipal consent is obtained and approved by the Board of Public Utility Commissioners, and may take such lands and may divert such streams of water in the manner provided in chapter 3 of this Title as shall be necessary for that purpose.
Nothing in this section shall empower any company to supply or furnish water within the corporate limits of a municipality of this State owning or controlling its water supply, without the permission of such municipality.
Amended by L.1962, c. 198, s. 196.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-22 - Refund for failure to supply water

48:19-22. Refund for failure to supply water
In case any water company of this state shall fail for more than five consecutive days during any period for which water rent is charged, collected or received, to supply water to a person who has paid such rents in advance, the water company shall refund to the consumer a portion of such rent proportioned to the time of the nonsupply.
The word "consumer" herein shall be construed to include individuals, firms, private, public and municipal corporations furnished with water for any purpose other than that of motive power.
This section shall not apply to any municipality owning or controlling its waterworks.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-23 - Municipal consents to formation of water companies validated

48:19-23. Municipal consents to formation of water companies validated
L.1906, c. 68, s. 2, p. 98 (C.S. p. 3636, s. 633), being section two of the act entitled "A supplement to an act entitled "An act for the construction, maintenance and operation of waterworks for the purpose of supplying cities, towns and villages of this state with water,' approved April twenty-first, eighteen hundred and seventy-six," approved April second, one thousand nine hundred and six, as amended by L.1912, c. 211, p. 328 (1924 Suppl. s. 136-633), approved March twenty-eighth, one thousand nine hundred and twelve, saved from repeal. [The above section, as amended, validates municipal consents theretofore granted to the formation of water companies, provided the approval of the state water policy commission is obtained.]
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-24 - Incorporation and contracts of certain water companies validated

48:19-24. Incorporation and contracts of certain water companies validated
L.1906, c. 128, p. 238 (C.S. p. 3649, s. 675), entitled "An act validating the incorporation and proceedings of certain companies organized in townships for the construction, maintenance and operation of waterworks under an act entitled "An act for the construction, maintenance and operation of waterworks for the purpose of supplying cities, towns and villages of this state with water,' approved April twenty-first, one thousand eight hundred and seventy-six, and the several supplements thereto and amendments thereof," approved April nineteenth, one thousand nine hundred and six, saved from repeal. [This act validates the incorporation, contracts, bonds and obligations of certain water companies.]
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-25 - Incorporation and powers of certain water companies validated

48:19-25. Incorporation and powers of certain water companies validated
L.1926, c. 158, p. 263, entitled "A supplement to an act entitled "A supplement to an act entitled "An act for the construction, maintenance and operation of waterworks for the purpose of supplying cities, towns, townships, villages, boroughs and other municipalities in this state with water, and otherwise amending said act," approved April twenty-first, one thousand eight hundred and seventy-six, as such title was amended by an act approved June twenty-second, one thousand nine hundred and six,' approved March twelfth, one thousand nine hundred and twenty-five," approved March twenty-sixth, one thousand nine hundred and twenty-six, saved from repeal. [This act validates the incorporation and powers of water companies actually engaged in supplying water to municipalities and which have filed a proper certificate.]
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-26 - Nonprofit senior citizen cooperative associations; exceptions from rules and laws on rates

48:19-26. Nonprofit senior citizen cooperative associations; exceptions from rules and laws on rates
The Board of Public Utility Commissioners is hereby authorized and empowered to grant exceptions from the literal requirements of those provisions of chapters 2, 3 and 19 of Title 48 of the Revised Statutes, or from any rules, regulations or procedures promulgated pursuant thereto, pertaining to the imposition or exaction of special, discriminatory or preferential rates or regulations or for the installation of metering devices, for determining any charges to be imposed by nonprofit water companies which are owned wholly by nonprofit senior citizen cooperative associations, and which provide service only to the members of such association. Such exceptions shall only be granted upon a finding by the board that the literal application of said aforementioned provisions in such cases is unnecessary for the protection of the public interest.
L.1973, c. 160, s. 1, eff. June 7, 1973.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-27 - Applications for exception

48:19-27. Applications for exception
An application for an exception authorized pursuant to the provisions of section 1 of this act shall be filed in writing with, and upon forms supplied by, the board, and shall contain such information as the board shall require.
L.1973, c. 160, s. 2, eff. June 7, 1973.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:19-28 - Exceptions granted; record; public examination

48:19-28. Exceptions granted; record; public examination
The board shall maintain a record of all exceptions granted, and shall make such record reasonably available for public examination.
L.1973, c. 160, s. 3, eff. June 7, 1973.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-2 - Definitions.

48:23-2 Definitions.
2. For the purposes of this act, unless otherwise indicated by the context:
"Authority" means the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority.
"Board" means the board of the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority.
"Public broadcasting" includes all aspects of noncommercial radio and television, open and closed circuit, including the production and dissemination of public and community affairs, educational, cultural, and instructional information to the public at large within the State. For the purposes of P.L.1968, c.405 (C.48:23-1 et seq.), public broadcasting does not include radio and television transmissions for internal communications, as presently used by public and private agencies in fields such as law enforcement, safety, transportation, traffic control, civil defense, and the like, except that this limitation shall not apply when an emergency condition exists and notification of the emergency condition is received by the authority pursuant to section 3 of P.L.1989, c.133 (C.53:1-21.6) nor shall this limitation apply with regard to preparations or planning for such an emergency condition.
"Public broadcasting telecommunications" includes all public broadcasting services relating to public broadcasting including intercommunications, datacasting, closed circuit Instructional Television Fixed Service (ITFS), and other services requiring Federal Communications Commission spectrum allocations for transmission of electrical impulses that specifically and integrally relate to New Jersey public broadcasting. Facilities typical for application of these services would encompass micro-wave interconnection, aural and video TV transmission, multiplexing, laser beam utilization, satellite interconnection systems, and other appropriate technological devices.
L.1968, c.405, s.2; amended 2005, c.35, s.1; 2010, c.104, s.10.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-3 - New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority; establishment.

48:23-3 New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority; establishment.
3. There is hereby established, pursuant to P.L.1968, c.405 (C.48:23-1 et seq.), in the Executive Branch of the State Government the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority. For the purpose of complying with the provisions of Article V, Section IV, paragraph 1 of the New Jersey Constitution, the authority is hereby allocated within the Department of the Treasury, but notwithstanding such allocation, the authority shall be independent of any supervision or control by the department or by any agency or officer thereof.
L.1968, c.405, s.3; amended 2010, c.104, s.11.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-4 - Board; appointment; terms; compensation; meetings; organization; secretary; seal.

48:23-4 Board; appointment; terms; compensation; meetings; organization; secretary; seal.
4. a. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
b. The authority shall consist of a board which shall be composed of five members: (1) three members appointed by the Governor who shall be citizens of the State, two of whom shall be public members; (2) one member appointed by the President of the Senate; and (3) one member appointed by the Speaker of the General Assembly.
c. The term of office of appointed members, except for the first appointed members made under P.L.2010, c.104, shall be for five years. Each member shall serve until the member's successor shall have been appointed and qualified and vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointments for the remainder of the unexpired term.
d. The members of the board shall receive no compensation for their services, but may be reimbursed for their actual expenses in performing their duties.
e. The board shall hold public meetings at such places within the State as it shall designate at least once quarterly and at such other times as in its judgment may be necessary.
f. The board shall organize annually by the election of a chair and vice-chair, and such other officers as the board shall determine. Officers shall serve until their successors are elected and qualified. Vacancies in such offices shall be filled in the same manner for the unexpired term only.
g. The chair shall appoint a secretary of the board who shall have custody of its official seal. The chair may designate an employee of the authority to perform such duties of the secretary and such other services as the board shall designate.
L.1968, c.405, s.4; amended 2010, c.104, s.13.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-7 - Powers of authority.

48:23-7 Powers of authority.
7. The authority shall have the power to:
a. Adopt and from time to time amend and repeal suitable by-laws for the management of the authority's affairs.
b. Adopt and use the official seal and alter the same at the pleasure of the board.
c. Maintain an office at such place or places within the State as the board may designate within the limits of available appropriations therefor.
d. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
e. Apply for, receive, and hold such authorizations and licenses and assignments and reassignments of channels from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as may be necessary to conduct its operations and prepare, and file and prosecute before the FCC all applications, reports, or other documents or requests for authorization of any type necessary or appropriate to achieve the authorized purposes of the authority.
f. Comply with the minimum requirements of the FCC necessary for the authority to hold FCC broadcast licenses, including requirements concerning the minimum number of authority employees and broadcast transmission facilities.
g. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
h. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
i. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
j. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
k. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
l. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
. m. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
n. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
o. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
p. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
q. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
r. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2010, c.104).
s. Make reasonable rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of P.L.1968, c.405 (C.48:23-1 et seq.) and P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-18 et al.).
L.1968, c.405, s.7; amended 2010, c.104, s.16.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-8 - Encumbering of assets

48:23-8. Encumbering of assets
The authority shall have no power to issue bonds, notes or other obligations, or to mortgage, pledge or otherwise encumber the assets of the authority or any of its income; and no part of the income or the assets of the authority shall inure to the benefit of any director, officer, employee or any other individual, except as may be provided as salary or reasonable compensation for services.
L.1968, c. 405, s. 8, eff. Jan. 13, 1969.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-9 - Political activities

48:23-9. Political activities
The authority shall be prohibited from supporting or opposing any political party or candidate for public office, elective or otherwise, and from attempting to influence the enactment of legislation. The authority shall not, however, be precluded from promoting full discussions of public issues.
L.1968, c. 405, s. 9, eff. Jan. 13, 1969.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-10 - Educational policies; curriculum content

48:23-10. Educational policies; curriculum content
Nothing in this act concerning the authority's activities in the field of instructional television shall be deemed to supersede the responsibilities of the Commissioner of Education, the Chancellor of Higher Education and local school governing bodies with respect to the determination of educational policies or curriculum content.
L.1968, c. 405, s. 10, eff. Jan. 13, 1969.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-13 - Foundation for New Jersey Public Broadcasting established

48:23-13. Foundation for New Jersey Public Broadcasting established
The New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority is authorized to establish a nonprofit, educational and charitable organization to be known as the Foundation for New Jersey Public Broadcasting. The foundation shall be devoted to the sponsoring of activities and the raising of funds for the support and promotion of the authority and its several purposes. The foundation shall be incorporated, organized and operated in such manner as to be eligible under applicable federal law for tax-exempt status and for the receipt of tax-deductible contributions.
L.1990,c.114,s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-14 - Board of directors.

48:23-14 Board of directors.
2. The Foundation for New Jersey Public Broadcasting shall be governed by a board of directors. The number of directors and their terms and manner of selection shall be determined upon the incorporation of the foundation. No employee of the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority shall serve as a member of the board of directors. No member of the board of directors shall engage in any business transaction or professional activity for profit with the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority.
L.1990, c.114, s.2; amended 2010, c.104, s.20.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-15 - Executive director, employees

48:23-15. Executive director, employees
The board of directors of the Foundation for New Jersey Public Broadcasting shall be authorized, within the limits of its own funds, to employ an executive director and professional, technical and administrative personnel. Employees of the foundation shall not be construed to be employees of the State of New Jersey. The board shall also be authorized to contract for such professional and administrative services as it shall deem necessary.
L.1990,c.114,s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-17 - Use of funds.

48:23-17 Use of funds.
5. All funds received by the Foundation for New Jersey Public Broadcasting, other than those necessary to pay for the expenses of the foundation, shall be used exclusively for the support and promotion of public broadcasting in New Jersey.
L.1990, c.114, s.5; amended 2010, c.104, s.21.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-18 - Short title.

48:23-18 Short title.
1. Sections 1 through 9, sections 14 through 15 and sections 22 through 24 of this act shall be known and may be cited as the "New Jersey Public Broadcasting System Transfer Act."
L.2010, c.104, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-20 - Transfer of State's public broadcasting system to another entity.

48:23-20 Transfer of State's public broadcasting system to another entity.
3. a. The New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority created pursuant to P.L.1968, c.405 (C.48:23-1 et seq.) shall undertake all acts necessary to accomplish the transfer of the State's public broadcasting system to a nonprofit corporation or other entity eligible to operate a public broadcasting system as authorized by P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-18 et al.), including, but not limited to, applying or assisting in applying to the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") or other governmental entity for any required approval, executing any authorization or authorizations required to implement such transfer, other than the transfer of the television licenses, and seeking any other approval or approvals as may be necessary and convenient to accomplish the transfer.
b. All State departments and agencies, boards, commissions, and authorities, as well as all municipal and county governing bodies, boards, commissions, and authorities, shall cooperate fully with the transfer authorized by P.L.2010, c.104 and facilitate the transfer of assets, the rendering of approvals, and all other acts necessary or convenient to accomplish the transfer.
c. The State Treasurer is authorized to retain any consultants, experts, brokers, advisors, or other professionals whose services may be necessary in order to effectuate the transaction or transactions contemplated by P.L.2010, c.104, and there are appropriated such sums as may be necessary for such fees and services, as well as any other costs determined to be necessary to effectuate such transaction or transactions, subject to the approval of the Director of the Division of Budget and Accounting in the Department of the Treasury and the Joint Budget Oversight Committee, or its successor.
d. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection a. of this section, the State Treasurer shall not transfer the television operating licenses currently held by the authority, but may transfer the radio operating licenses currently held by the authority.
L.2010, c.104, s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-21 - Preparation of written inventory of assets and liabilities.

48:23-21 Preparation of written inventory of assets and liabilities.
4. a. The State Treasurer, in consultation with the authority, shall prepare a complete written inventory identifying the public broadcasting system's assets and liabilities appropriate for transfer or sale pursuant to sections 5 and 6 of P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-22 and C.48:23-23). The inventory shall include a description and recommendations, if any, concerning the most appropriate mechanism or mechanisms through which a transfer of such assets and liabilities to a qualifying nonprofit corporation or one or more sales to another entity or entities pursuant to P.L.2010, c.104 should be accomplished. The inventory shall be completed and copies of the inventory shall be delivered to the Governor, the Speaker of the General Assembly, and the President of the Senate.
b. Any assets or properties owned by the State or any department, agency, board, authority, or commission thereof or any county or municipal board, commission, or authority used in the operation of the public broadcasting system or an interest therein, may be leased or licensed, in lieu of an assignment or transfer of such assets or properties, except as may otherwise be prohibited or limited by the terms of any debt issued to acquire such assets or properties, as determined by the State Treasurer.
L.2010, c.104, s.4.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-24 - Receipt of records, liabilities, obligations, commitments of authority to effectuate transfer.

48:23-24 Receipt of records, liabilities, obligations, commitments of authority to effectuate transfer.
7. The State Treasurer may receive, continue, or assume any records, liabilities, obligations or commitments of the authority or by written order or other appropriate method make an assignment or transfer thereof to any State department, agency, or instrumentality in order to effectuate the transfer of the State's public broadcasting system to a nonprofit corporation or other entity eligible to operate a public broadcasting system authorized by P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-18 et al.). All State departments, agencies, and instrumentalities shall take all necessary measures to effectuate any action taken by the State Treasurer pursuant to P.L.2010, c.104 and shall assume and perform any liabilities, obligations, and commitments transferred or assigned to them.
L.2010, c.104, s.7.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-25 - Authority to enter into contracts, transfer assets.

48:23-25 Authority to enter into contracts, transfer assets.
8. Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, contracts may be entered into and assets may be transferred, leased, subleased, licensed, or sublicensed, or authorized to be transferred, leased, subleased, licensed, or sublicensed pursuant to P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-18 et al.) without the approval of the State House Commission, established pursuant to R.S.52:20-1, the State Leasing and Space Utilization Committee, established pursuant to section 4 of P.L.1992, c.130 (C.52:18A-191.4), or the Office of Leasing Operations in the General Services Administration of the Department of the Treasury, established pursuant to section 3 of P.L.1992, c.130 (C.52:18A-191.3), or of any other person or agency, provided that the contract, transfer, lease, sublease, license, or sublicense has been approved in writing by the State Treasurer.
L.2010, c.104, s.8.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-26 - Disposition of transferred assets.

48:23-26 Disposition of transferred assets.
9. Public broadcasting system assets transferred, or authorized to be transferred, by contract or otherwise, pursuant to P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-18 et al.), may be leased, subleased, licensed, sublicensed, sold, devised, donated, or otherwise disposed of for a nominal or other consideration, in order to effectuate the transfer of the State's public broadcasting system to a nonprofit corporation or other entity eligible to operate a public broadcasting system required by P.L.2010, c.104.
L.2010, c.104, s.9.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-27 - Terms of office terminated.

48:23-27 Terms of office terminated.
14. The terms of office of all members of the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Commission in office prior to the effective date of P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-18 et al.) shall terminate.
L.2010, c.104, s.14.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-28 - Terms of first members appointed.

48:23-28 Terms of first members appointed.
15. Of the first members of the board of the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority appointed after the effective date of P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-18 et al.), one public member appointed by the Governor shall serve for a term of one year, the member appointed by the Speaker of the General Assembly shall serve for a term of two years, one public member appointed by the Governor shall serve for a term of three years, and the member appointed by the President of the Senate shall serve for a term of four years.
L.2010, c.104, s.15.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-29 - "Trust Fund for the Support of Public Broadcasting."

48:23-29 "Trust Fund for the Support of Public Broadcasting."
22. a. There is hereby created in the Department of the Treasury the "Trust Fund for the Support of Public Broadcasting", a restricted, nonlapsing, revolving fund to be managed and invested by the State Treasurer. All moneys appropriated to the fund, all interest accumulated on balances in the fund, and all cash received for the fund from any other source are dedicated solely for the support of a public broadcasting system serving New Jersey as provided for in P.L.2010, c.104. All moneys deposited in the fund are hereby appropriated in such amounts determined by the State Treasurer to the entity or entities selected to operate a public broadcasting system pursuant to P.L.2010, c.104 for that purpose and shall within 10 days of deposit in the fund be expended by the State Treasurer to that entity, or, if moneys are deposited prior to such entity being designated, as soon as may be practicable after approval of that entity or entities pursuant to sections 5 and 6 of P.L.2010, c.104 (C.48:23-22 and C.48:23-23).
b. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, except as may be otherwise prohibited or limited by the terms of any debt issued to acquire such assets or property, all monies received by the State from the sale, lease or assignment of any assets or property of the authority which comprise the public broadcasting system shall be deposited in or credited to this fund.
L.2010, c.104, s.22.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-30 - Transfer approval.

48:23-30 Transfer approval.
23. If the Legislature's approval of the sale or transfer, as appropriate, of any radio or the television operating license is found to violate any federal law, rule or regulation, the transfer of the respective operating license shall not occur unless the authority, by a majority vote, approves such a sale or transfer.
L.2010, c.104, s.23.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:23-31 - Liberal construction, severability.

48:23-31 Liberal construction, severability.
24. This act shall be liberally construed to effectuate its purposes. All acts and parts of acts inconsistent with any of the provisions of this act are, to the extent of such inconsistencies, superseded and shall be deemed inoperative. If any provision of this act, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of the sections that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this act are severable.
L.2010, c.104, s.24.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-2 - Definitions relative to rural electric cooperatives.

48:24-2 Definitions relative to rural electric cooperatives.
2. As used in P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.):
"Acquire" means to construct or by purchase, lease, devise, gift, or other mode of acquisition.
"Board" means the board of directors of a rural electric cooperative.
"Federal agency" means any department, administration, commission, board, bureau, office, establishment, agency, authority, or instrumentality of the United States of America.
"Member" means the incorporators of a rural electric cooperative and each person thereafter lawfully admitted to membership therein.
"Obligations" means bonds, notes, debentures, interim certificates, or receipts, and all other evidence of indebtedness, whether secured or unsecured, issued by a rural electric cooperative.
"Person" means any individual or entity but shall not include any Federal agency, state, or any political subdivision thereof.
"Rural area" means any area included within the boundaries of any municipality that, as of the date of the rural electric cooperative's articles of incorporation, has a population of 30,000 inhabitants or less and a population density less than 4,000 persons per square mile, according to the latest federal decennial census, including both the farm and nonfarm population thereof.
"Rural electric cooperative" or "cooperative" means a nonprofit corporation entitled to the rights, benefits, and protections established under P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.).
L.2017, c.297, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-3 - Recognition, affirmation of rural electric cooperative.

48:24-3 Recognition, affirmation of rural electric cooperative.
3. A rural electric cooperative which organized as a rural electric cooperative under the general corporation laws of this State, is hereby recognized and affirmed as a rural electric cooperative entitled to the rights, benefits, and protections established under P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.), if formed for any of the following purposes:
a. Furnishing of electric energy to persons who shall be members of the cooperative in rural areas who are not receiving service from an electric public utility;
b. Assisting in the wiring of the premises of persons in rural areas who are members of the cooperative or the acquisition, supply, or installation of electrical or plumbing equipment therein; and
c. Furnishing of electric energy, wiring facilities, electrical equipment, or services in rural areas to the members thereof.
L.2017, c.297, s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-4 - Articles of incorporation.

48:24-4 Articles of incorporation.
4. The articles of incorporation of a rural electric cooperative existing under P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.) shall state:
a. The name of the cooperative, which shall include the words "Rural Electric Cooperative" and shall not be confusingly similar to the name of any other corporation in this State;
b. The purposes for which the cooperative is formed;
c. The names and addresses of the incorporators who shall serve as directors, and manage the affairs, of the cooperative until its first annual meeting of members or until their successors are elected and qualified;
d. The number of directors, not less than three, to be elected at the annual meetings of members;
e. The address, including street and number, if any, of the cooperative's registered office;
f. The period of duration of the cooperative, which may be perpetual;
g. The terms and conditions upon which persons will be admitted to, and retain, membership in the cooperative, provided that, if expressly so stated, the determination of these matters may be reserved to the directors by the bylaws; and
h. Other provisions, not inconsistent with law, which the incorporators or directors choose to insert for the regulation of the business and affairs of the cooperative.
L.2017, c.297, s.4.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-5 - Use of "Rural Electric Cooperative" designation restricted.

48:24-5 Use of "Rural Electric Cooperative" designation restricted.
5. The words "Rural Electric Cooperative" shall not be used in the corporate name of any corporation organized for profit or not-for-profit in this State other than a cooperative existing under P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.).
L.2017, c.297, s.5.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-6 - Liberal construction.

48:24-6 Liberal construction.
6. All of the provisions of law applicable to rural electric cooperatives shall be construed liberally. The enumeration of any object, purpose, power, manner, method, or thing shall not be deemed to exclude like or similar objects, purposes, powers, manners, methods, or things.
L.2017, c.297, s.6.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-7 - Powers of rural electric cooperative.

48:24-7 Powers of rural electric cooperative.
7. A rural electric cooperative existing under P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.) shall have the power:
a. To generate, manufacture, purchase, acquire, and accumulate electric energy and to transmit, distribute, sell, furnish, and dispose of that electric energy to its members; and to construct, erect, purchase, lease as lessee and, in any manner, acquire, own, hold, maintain, operate, sell, dispose of, lease as lessor, exchange, and mortgage plants, buildings, works, machinery, supplies, equipment, apparatus, and transmission and distribution lines or systems necessary, convenient, or useful;
b. To assist its members to wire their premises and install therein electrical and plumbing fixtures, machinery, supplies, apparatus, and equipment of all kinds and character and, in connection therewith and for those purposes, to purchase, acquire, lease, sell, distribute, install, and repair electrical and plumbing fixtures, machinery, supplies, apparatus, and equipment of all kinds and character;
c. To receive, acquire, endorse, pledge, hypothecate, and dispose of notes, bonds, and other evidences of indebtedness;
d. To use any highway or any right-of-way, easement, or other similar property right owned or held by the State or any political subdivision thereof, in connection with the acquisition, construction, improvement, operation, or maintenance of its lines;
e. To have and exercise the power of eminent domain for the same purposes and in the same manner as electric public utilities within the State;
f. To fix, regulate, and collect rates, fees, rents, or other charges for electric energy and any other facilities, supplies, equipment, or services furnished by the cooperative;
g. To accept gifts or grants of money, services, or property, real, or personal; and
h. To do and perform, either for itself or its members or for any other cooperative, or for the members thereof, all acts necessary and to have and exercise any and all powers as may be necessary, convenient, or appropriate to effectuate the purpose for which the cooperative is incorporated.
L.2017, c.297, s.7.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-8 - Power relative to bylaws.

48:24-8 Power relative to bylaws.
8. The power to make, alter, or repeal the bylaws of a rural electric cooperative established pursuant to P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.) shall be vested in the board of directors of the cooperative. The bylaws may contain any provisions for the regulation and management of the affairs of the cooperative not inconsistent with law or the articles of incorporation.
L.2017, c.297, s.8.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-9 - Eligibility for membership.

48:24-9 Eligibility for membership.
9. All persons in rural areas served, or proposed to be served, by a rural electric cooperative shall be eligible for membership in the cooperative upon terms as the cooperative's bylaws may specify. The bylaws shall constitute a contract between the cooperative and each of its members.
L.2017, c.297, s.9.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-10 - Liability for, payment of debts.

48:24-10 Liability for, payment of debts.
10. A member shall not be liable for the debts of a rural electric cooperative, but nothing in P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.) shall be construed to relieve any member from the payment of any debt due by the member to the cooperative.
L.2017, c.297, s.10.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-11 - Certificate of membership.

48:24-11 Certificate of membership.
11. When a member of a rural electric cooperative has paid a membership fee, submitted a membership application, and complied with all remaining requirements for membership as determined by the cooperative, a certificate of membership shall be issued to the member. Memberships in the cooperative and the certificates thereof shall be nontransferable. The certificate of membership shall be surrendered to the cooperative upon the resignation, expulsion, or death of the member.
L.2017, c.297, s.11.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-12 - Board of directors.

48:24-12 Board of directors.
12. a. The business and affairs of a rural electric cooperative shall be managed under the direction of a board of not less than three directors who shall be natural persons of full age. All directors shall be members of the cooperative.
b. Any vacancy occurring in the board of directors of the cooperative shall be filled by the remaining directors in accordance with the bylaws of the cooperative.
L.2017, c.297, s.12.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-13 - Meetings.

48:24-13 Meetings.
13. a. An annual meeting of the members of a rural electric cooperative shall be held at a time as may be provided in the bylaws.
b. Special meetings of the members may be called by:
(1) the president;
(2) the board of directors;
(3) the members as evidenced by a petition signed by not less than one-tenth of all of the members; or
(4) other officers or persons as may be provided in the bylaws.
c. Written notice of every meeting of members shall be given in the manner prescribed in the cooperative's bylaws, but in no event shall written notice be given more than 30 days or less than 10 days before the date of the meeting. If mailed, the notice shall be deemed to be delivered when deposited in the United States mail in a sealed envelope, addressed to the member at the member's address as it appears on the records of the cooperative, with postage thereon pre-paid.
L.2017, c.297, s.13.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-14 - Quorum.

48:24-14 Quorum.
14. If the total number of members of a rural electric cooperative shall exceed 1,000, then at least 100 of the members present in person shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at all meetings of members. In the case of a joint membership, the presence at a meeting of either joint member or both shall be regarded as the presence of one member. If less than a quorum is present at any meeting, a majority of those members present in person may adjourn the meeting from time to time without further notice.
L.2017, c.297, s.14.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-15 - Voting.

48:24-15 Voting.
15. Each member of a rural electric cooperative present shall be entitled to only one vote on each matter submitted to a vote at a meeting of members. All questions shall be decided by a vote of a majority of members voting thereon in person except as otherwise provided by law, the articles of incorporation, or the bylaws.
L.2017, c.297, s.15.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-16 - Operating expenses; revenues.

48:24-16 Operating expenses; revenues.
16. a. A rural electric cooperative shall be operated without profit to its members, but the rates, fees, rents, or other charges for electric energy, and any other facilities, supplies, equipment, or services furnished by the cooperative shall be sufficient at all times:
(1) to pay all operating and maintenance expenses necessary or desirable for the prudent conduct of its business and the principal of and interest on the obligations issued or assumed by the cooperative in the performance of the purpose for which it was organized; and
(2) for the creation of reserves.
b. The revenues of the cooperative shall be devoted, first, to the payment of operating and maintenance expenses and the principal and interest on outstanding obligations and, thereafter, to the reserves for improvement, new construction, depreciation, and contingencies as the board may, from time to time, prescribe.
c. (1) Revenues not required for the purposes set forth in sub-section b. of this section shall be returned, from time to time, to the members on a pro rata basis, according to the amount of business done with each member during the period, either in cash, in abatement of current charges for electric energy, or otherwise, as the board determines, but the return may be made by way of general rate reduction to members if the board so elects. The allocation and retirement of any capital credits shall be made by the directors in accordance with the bylaws of the cooperative.
(2) Any capital credits that remain unclaimed at the expiration of a period of three years from the date of member notification by the cooperative to the member at the member's last known address, as shown on the records of the cooperative, shall be retained by the cooperative for its general corporate purposes.
L.2017, c.297, s.16.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-17 - Merger, consolidation, division.

48:24-17 Merger, consolidation, division.
17. a. Any two or more rural electric cooperatives may merge, consolidate, or divide, but only if the surviving or resulting entity is a rural electric cooperative existing under P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.) or under the laws of a neighboring state. Every merger, consolidation, or division of a cooperative shall be proposed by the adoption by the board of directors of a resolution approving the plan of merger, consolidation, or division and directing that the plan be submitted to a vote of the members entitled to vote thereon at a regular or special meeting of the members.
b. A rural electric cooperative may sell, lease, lease-sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets, other than in the ordinary course of business, only when authorized by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of all the members of the cooperative.
(1) The plan of asset transfer presented shall set forth the terms and conditions of the sale, lease, exchange, or other disposition, or may authorize the board of directors of the cooperative to fix any terms and conditions, including the consideration to be received by the cooperative therefor.
(2) Prior to the submission for consideration by the members of the cooperative, the board of directors of the cooperative shall first give all other rural electric cooperatives within the State of New Jersey and a neighboring state an opportunity to submit competing proposals. That opportunity shall be presented in the form of a written notice to those cooperatives, which notice shall be attached to a copy of the proposal which the cooperative has already received. Those cooperatives shall be given not less than 30 days during which to submit competing proposals, and the actual minimum period within which proposals are to be submitted shall be stated in the written notice given to them.
(3) Within 30 days after the expiration of the notice period set by the board of directors of a cooperative under paragraph (2) of this subsection, written notice of the special meeting to consider and take action on the plan of asset transfer and expressing in detail each of the proposals shall be given to each member of the cooperative. The special meeting shall not be held sooner than 30 days after giving that notice to the members.
(4) After a plan of asset transfer has been authorized by the members of a cooperative, the board of directors, in its discretion, may either pursue or abandon the sale, lease, lease-sale, exchange, or other disposition, subject to the rights of third parties under any contracts relating thereto, without further action or approval by the members.
L.2017, c.297, s.17.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-18 - Dissolution.

48:24-18 Dissolution.
18. A rural electric cooperative may dissolve only when authorized by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of all the members of the cooperative. Any assets remaining after all liabilities or obligations of the cooperative have been satisfied or discharged upon dissolution shall be distributed pro rata among the members of the cooperative at the time of the filing of the certificate of dissolution in accordance with the cooperative's bylaws.
L.2017, c.297, s.18.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:24-19 - Security of borrowed money.

48:24-19 Security of borrowed money.
19. Whenever any rural electric cooperative subject to P.L.2017, c.297 (C.48:24-1 et al.) has borrowed money from any federal agency, the obligations issued to secure the payment of the money shall be exempt from the provisions of the "Uniform Securities Law (1967)," P.L.1967, c.93 (C.49:3-47 et seq.) nor shall the provisions of P.L.1967, c.93 (C.49:3-47 et seq.) apply to the issuance of membership certificates by that cooperative.
L.2017, c.297, s.19.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 48 - Public Utilities › Section 48:25-1 - Findings, declarations relative to the use of plug-in electric vehicles.

48:25-1 Findings, declarations relative to the use of plug-in electric vehicles.
1. The Legislature finds and declares: that plug-in electric vehicle technology has improved significantly for vehicles of all types; that plug-in electric vehicles with longer ranges are now widely available at a lower cost and present a viable alternative to vehicles fueled by fossil fuels; that more plug-in electric vehicle makes and models will be introduced in the State motor vehicle market over the next several years; that vehicle electrification offers a wide range of benefits, such as improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and savings in motor vehicle operating costs for vehicle owners; that increased use of plug-in electric vehicles can contribute significantly to the attainment of existing State air pollution and energy goals, including the objectives of the "Global Warming Response Act," P.L.2007, c.112 (C.26:2C-37 et seq.) and the State's Energy Master Plan; and that New Jersey is already committed to implementing the California Low Emission Vehicle Program pursuant to P.L.2003, c.266 (C.26:2C-8.15 et al.), and part of this program is a commitment to increasing the use of low emission vehicles and zero emission vehicles, including plug-in electric vehicles.
The Legislature therefore determines that it is in the public interest to establish goals for the increased use of plug-in electric vehicles in the State, to support the increased use of plug-in electric vehicles by providing incentives for the purchase or lease of such vehicles and for related charging equipment, and to increase consumer awareness of the availability of incentives through a Statewide public education program.
L.2019, c.362, s.1.