In the final legislative session of the year, New Jersey lawmakers on Monday approved a series of bills addressing various areas, including school policies, public safety, worker protections and tax relief, sending the bills to Governor Phil Murphy for his signature.

Among the dozens of bills approved today by the Senate and Assembly is legislation requiring public school districts to restrict student cell phone use during classroom instruction. The bill directs the Department of Education to establish statewide guidelines while allowing districts flexibility in how the restrictions are enforced, including the use of locked pouches or storage systems. Exceptions would be permitted for emergencies, medical needs and certain educational purposes.

Lawmakers also passed a bill increasing criminal penalties for drivers who cause a death while committing vehicular homicide in an active work zone. Supporters said the measure is intended to deter dangerous driving and improve safety for construction and utility workers who face heightened risks along roadways.

Another bill approved on Monday would provide tax relief to volunteer firefighters, emergency medical technicians and rescue squad members by exempting certain stipends from state income taxes. Legislators said the measure aims to help local departments recruit and retain volunteers as many communities struggle with declining participation.

Another significant bill would create an automatic voter registration system in the state by setting up a process within the state Motor Vehicle Commission to automatically register every eligible citizen who applies for a driver’s license.

In the area of public safety, lawmakers advanced legislation that would increase penalties related to public brawls involving minors. The bill enhances consequences for parents or guardians whose children participate in organized fights or large-scale disturbances in public places, an issue that has drawn increased attention following several high-profile incidents across the state.

The Legislature also approved a measure expanding job-protected family leave to employees of smaller businesses. The bill lowers the threshold for employer coverage, extending protections to workers at businesses with at least 15 employees, down from the current threshold of 30 employees.

The current legislative session ends January 13, 2026.

All of the bills now head to Murphy’s desk, where he can sign them into law, veto them or issue conditional vetoes.

Governor Murphy leaves office on January 20, 2026.