Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy has enacted the Louisa Carman Medical Debt Relief Act, aimed at helping New Jersey residents avoid medical debt and protect them from aggressive collectors. Named after Louisa Carman, a late member of the Governor’s Office, the bill seeks to enhance healthcare affordability in New Jersey.

“With this legislation, we honor Louisa by carrying forward her mission to ensure every New Jerseyan can access the health care they deserve without breaking the bank,” said Governor Murphy. The act prevents medical creditors from reporting patient debt for services provided after its enactment.

Louisa's family praised her advocacy efforts: “She inspired her colleagues...to adopt her passion for combatting predatory medical debt collection.” Shabnam Salih, Director of the Office of Health Care Affordability, highlighted Carman's contributions: “Her work gave us the foundation for critical consumer protections against medical debt.”

Additionally, Murphy announced a collaboration with U.S. Treasury Deputy Secretary Wally Adeyemo to introduce Direct File for federal tax returns in 2025. This free tool will be available to over 1.3 million New Jersey residents.

“The Direct File tool is revolutionary...saving individuals and families time and money,” stated Murphy. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen added that it aligns with broader federal goals: “Direct File is one of the many ways the Biden-Harris Administration is working to lower costs in everyday life.”

Murphy also signed A4558/S3432 establishing the Next New Jersey Program to boost AI industry investments in the state. The program aims to foster innovation and create jobs through NJEDA-administered tax credits.

“AI has already started to revolutionize our everyday lives...New Jersey is ready to take the lead,” said Murphy. NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan remarked on its economic potential: “The Next New Jersey Program will build upon...our longstanding legacy in innovation.”

In environmental initiatives, $249 million in federal funding was awarded for electric vehicle infrastructure along I-95 under a collaborative effort involving multiple states.

“The steps we take today...will improve air quality in our communities," noted Murphy regarding this clean energy transition initiative.

New Jersey's AI Task Force launched a survey seeking worker input on generative AI impacts on employment.

“There is no question that Generative AI has potential...this survey will ensure that our residents’ voices are heard,” stated Murphy. Beth Simone Noveck emphasized including resident perspectives: "By better understanding what workers hope artificial intelligence can accomplish..."

Chris Rein highlighted ethical considerations: “With this survey, we are making sure to include voices directly impacted by artificial intelligence."