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Bill

Bill

A 3680

Expands definition of newspaper for required public advertisements to include those published online.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Verlina Reynolds-Jackson

Expands New Jersey's public notice requirements to allow online publications alongside print newspapers, modernizing legal advertising standards while potentially reducing print media revenue.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · A 3680

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 3680 expands New Jersey's legal definition of "newspaper" to include online publications when determining which outlets must carry required public advertisements. This modernizes the state's public notice requirements, which traditionally mandated advertisements appear in print newspapers, to reflect contemporary media consumption patterns.

Why is this important

Governments and courts currently mandate certain public notices (legal ads, public hearings, bidding information) be published in newspapers to ensure public awareness. By including online publications, this bill could reduce printing costs for municipalities and improve accessibility for citizens who increasingly consume news digitally rather than in print. However, it fundamentally shifts which outlets qualify as official notice venues.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "online newspaper": The bill must clarify whether any website publishing news qualifies or if standards for circulation, editorial oversight, and credibility apply—risking either too-broad application or insufficient clarification
  • Print media viability: Newspapers already facing financial decline may lose lucrative advertising revenue from municipal and legal notices, potentially accelerating closures and reducing local journalism capacity
  • Public accessibility concerns: Not all residents have reliable internet access; making online-only notice options available could disadvantage elderly, rural, or low-income populations who depend on print media for legal information

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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