Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ December 19‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for November 21‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss national ethics news‚ staff activities‚ Legislative developments‚ the COGEL conference‚ and the winter meeting schedule.
4. Proposed Amendments to Commission Rules Concerning Lobbying - The Commission will discuss proposal of amendments to Subchapter 20‚ Lobbyists and Governmental Affairs Agents‚ N.J.A.C. 19:25-20. The proposed amendments are intended to clarify lobbying reporting requirements which were enacted as a result of changes made in 2004 to the Legislative and Governmental Process Activities Act‚ N.J.S.A. 52:13C-18 et seq.
5. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
6. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

COMMISSION MEETING SCHEDULE FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2007

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission has announced its meeting schedule for 2007. Unless otherwise indicated in the future‚ meetings will be held at the Commission’s offices at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ in Trenton. It is anticipated that meetings will begin at 11:00 a.m.‚ unless otherwise indicated.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ November 21‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for October 17‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss staff activities‚ COGEL news‚ and the future meeting schedule.
4. Public Hearing on Proposed New Rules to Implement “Pay-to-Play” Disclosure Legislation - A public hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:15 a.m. to receive public comment on proposed new rules to implement recently-enacted “pay-to-play” disclosure legislation. The new law requires two types of disclosure of contributions made by a business: to the government entity awarding a contract having a value in excess of $17‚500.00 where the contract is not awarded pursuant to a “fair and open” process‚ and to the Commission in an annual report if a business entity has received $50‚000.00 or more in a calendar year as a result of a contract or contracts with New Jersey government entities. The “pay-to-play” disclosure requirements are applicable to entities doing business at all levels of New Jersey government‚ including school boards and fire districts.
   The proposal notice appeared in the New Jersey Register on November 6‚ 2006. Among other topics‚ the proposed new rules define terms applicable to the “pay-to-play” disclosure legislation‚ list the requirements for disclosure of political contributions by a business entity to a government entity prior to entering into a contract‚ describe the annual electronic disclosure statement requirements‚ clarify that only contributions in excess of $300.00 in the aggregate must be disclosed‚ specify the related individuals and affiliated entities whose contributions are “deemed to be” contributions by a business‚ provide procedures to allege a violation of the “pay-to-play” disclosure law‚ and recite the Commission’s statutory authority to impose penalties if a business entity fails to comply with the disclosure requirements.
   The proposed new rules are available on the Commission’s website at www.elec.state.nj.us or a copy may be obtained by calling 609-292-8700.
5. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
6. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

Executive Director Frederick M. Herrmann announced today that the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission is proposing new rules to implement recently-enacted legislation requiring “pay-to-play” disclosure of contributions by business entities. Herrmann noted that the proposal is in response to P.L.2005‚ c.271 (Chapter 271)‚ which requires that a business disclose its political contributions in two ways: to the government entity awarding a contract having a value in excess of $17‚500.00 where the contract is not awarded pursuant to a “fair and open” process‚ and to the Commission in an annual report if a business entity has received $50‚000.00 or more in a calendar year as a result of a contract or contracts with New Jersey government entities.

Herrmann explained that the disclosure requirements of Chapter 271 are applicable to entities doing business at all levels of New Jersey government‚ including school boards and fire districts.

According to Herrmann‚ among other provisions‚ the proposed new rules:

• Define terms specifically applicable to the “pay-to-play” disclosure legislation such as “business entity‚” “interest‚” “director‚” “officer‚” “public entity‚” and “State agency”;
• Reiterate definitions contained in the New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act‚ N.J.S.A. 19:44A-1 et seq. and Commission regulations‚ N.J.A.C. 19:25-1 et seq.‚ such as “candidate committee‚” and “legislative leadership committee‚” among others;
• List the requirements and conditions for disclosure of political contributions by a business entity to a government entity prior to entering into a contract with such government entity;
• Describe the rules regarding disclosure of political contributions by a business entity in an annual disclosure statement to the Commission;
• Clarify that only “contributions reportable by the recipient” must be disclosed;
• Provide procedures to allege a violation of the “pay-to-play” disclosure law; and‚
• Recite the Commission’s statutory authority to impose penalties if a business entity fails to provide disclosure as required by Chapter 271.

The proposed new rules will appear in the New Jersey Register on November 6‚ 2006‚ and are currently available on the Commission’s website at www.elec.state.nj.us. Copies of the Commission’s proposal may also be obtained by calling the Commission at (609) 292-8700.

The Commission will conduct a hearing to elicit public comment concerning the proposal on Tuesday‚ November 21‚ 2006 at 11:15 A.M. at:

Election Law Enforcement Commission
Edward J. Farrell Memorial Conference Room
28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor
Trenton‚ New Jersey

The Commission invites participation in this hearing and requests that any testimony be limited to no more than ten minutes. Persons wishing to testify at the November 21‚ 2006 hearing are requested to reserve time to speak by contacting Administrative Assistant Elbia L. Zeppetelli at (609) 292-8700 no later than Friday‚ November 17‚ 2006.

Submit written comments by January 5‚ 2007‚ to:

Michelle R. Levy‚ Associate Legal Director
Election Law Enforcement Commission
P. O. Box 185
Trenton‚ New Jersey 08625-0185

Press Advisory

On Tuesday‚ October 17‚ 2006 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the third quarterly report of the two State Political Party Committees and the four Leadership Committees‚ filed on or before October 16‚ 2006‚ will be available for public inspection at the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor‚ in Trenton‚ NJ and on ELEC’s website (www.elec.state.nj.us).

On Monday‚ October 23‚ 2006 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the third quarterly report of 2006 political party committees and continuing political committees‚ and campaign committees‚ filed on or before October 16‚ 2006‚ will be available on the ELEC website and for public inspection at ELEC.

These reports represent the disclosure of financial activity from July 1‚ 2006 through September 30‚ 2006.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website or online at: http://www.nj.gov/lps/opra.

If you wish to access the third quarterly reports through ELEC’s website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier in the public records room. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule as provided in the “Open Public Records Act” will apply. Thank you for your cooperation.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ October 17‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for September 19‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss Commissioner news‚ staff activities‚ a computer update‚ COGEL information‚ and the fall meeting schedule.
4. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
5. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has announced the following disclosure calendar for reports filed by candidates and committees participating in the 2006 General Election:

These reports will be available for public inspection after 10:00 a.m. on ELEC’s website and at its offices at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor in Trenton‚ NJ. ELEC’s website address is: www.elec.state.nj.us

Reports filed for the 2006 General Election reflect the financial activity of candidates and committees. Copies of the reports can also be reviewed at the county clerk’s office where the candidate seeks office.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website.

If you wish to access the reports through ELEC’s website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. A photocopier is also available for your use in the public records room. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier in the public records room. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Press Release

Legislative leadership committees and candidate committees were the top donors in the 2005 Assembly general election‚ according to a report released today by the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission.

In its latest White Paper‚ The 2005 Assembly Election: New Trends on the Horizon?‚ the Commission notes that 32 percent and 18 percent of total contributions to Assembly candidates were derived from legislative leadership committees and candidate committees respectively.

Jeffrey M. Brindle‚ Deputy Director of the Commission and author of the report‚ said that the 2005 Assembly election “witnessed a noteworthy drop in contributions by political party committees and an increase in activity by special interest PACs.”

He said that political party committee giving decreased from 25 percent of total legislative contributions in 2003 to eight percent in 2005. Conversely‚ contribution activity by special interest PACs rose from 13 percent in 2003 to 19 percent in 2005.

Brindle said that “contribution activity by PACs was the highest since 1987‚ when the special interests made 20 percent of all contributions to legislative candidates.

“It is only speculative but a new pattern in contributor activity may be emerging due to the enactment of pay-to-play laws‚” added Brindle.

Several Commission reports following the enactment of the 1993 campaign finance reform laws traced the re-emergence of county and State political party committees as a dominant force in New Jersey electoral politics.

Brindle said that “the report is not suggesting that these entities are no longer major players but that perhaps the equation is changing slightly.”

“While it is premature to say definitively that pay-to-play is altering the electoral landscape‚ the data does suggest the possibility that it is bringing about a reduction of contributor activity in some areas and redirecting this activity toward other entities‚ namely legislative leadership committees‚ candidates‚ and PACs” Brindle added.

He mentioned that a recent study of the effect on Federal elections of the McCain/Feingold reforms‚ showed a redirection of contributor activity toward candidate committees and independent expenditures. This study‚ The Election After Reform was edited by Michael J. Malbin.

The White Paper disclosed that in the general election of 2005 Assembly candidates raised $24.7 million and spent $22 million. While Assembly candidates raised five percent more in 2005 than in 2003 and spent eight percent more‚ these increases are more modest than those recorded between previous election years.

Among the reasons mentioned for the slower rate of increase were: low expectations for a truly competitive race in 2005‚ the siphoning off of money due to the gubernatorial race and the previous year’s presidential contest‚ the significant amount of money raised in the fourth legislative district in 2003 not matched in 2005‚ the Clean Elections Pilot Project‚ and the potential impact of pay-to-play.

Copies of this 19^th in a series of white papers‚ which also includes an historical overview and an in-depth review of expenditure activity‚ can be obtained by contacting the Election Law Enforcement Commission or accessing its website at www.elec.state.nj.us.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ September 19‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for August 15‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss staff activities‚ COGEL developments‚ the NORCOL Conference in August‚ computer news‚ and the fall meeting schedule.
4. Proposed New Rules to Implement “Pay-to-Play” Disclosure Legislation - The Commission will discuss proposal of new rules to implement P.L.2005‚ c.271 (Chapter 271)‚ which requires business entities with government contracts to disclose political contributions. Chapter 271 supplements earlier pay-to-play laws and requires disclosure of contributions made by a business at two junctures: to the government entity awarding a contract having a value in excess of $17‚500 if the contract is not awarded pursuant to a fair and open process‚ and to the Commission in an annual report if a business entity has received $50‚000 or more in a calendar year as a result of contracts with New Jersey government entities.
5. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
6. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a telephonic meeting at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday‚ August 15‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for July 17‚ 2006.
3. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
4. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has announced the following disclosure calendar for reports filed by the candidates and committees participating in the 2006 June Runoff Election:

These reports will be available for public inspection after 10:00 a.m. on ELEC’s website and at its offices at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor‚ in Trenton‚ NJ. ELEC’s website address is: www.elec.state.nj.us.

These reports reflect the disclosure of financial activity of candidates and committees. Copies of these reports can also be reviewed at the county clerk’s office in the county where the candidate seeks office.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website.

If you wish to access the reports through ELEC’s website‚ but do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. If you wish to photocopy a report‚ a photocopier is available for your use in the public records room. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply. If you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ a fee will be assessed for each copy.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Press Advisory

On Tuesday‚ July 18‚ 2006 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the second quarterly report of the two State Political Party Committees and the four Leadership Committees‚ filed on or before July 17‚ 2006‚ will be available for public inspection at the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor‚ in Trenton‚ NJ and on ELEC’s website (www.elec.state.nj.us).

On Monday‚ July 24‚ 2006 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the second quarterly report of 2006 political party committees and continuing political committees‚ and campaign committees‚ filed on or before July 17‚ 2006‚ will be available on the ELEC website and for public inspection at ELEC.

These reports represent the disclosure of financial activity from April 1‚ 2006 through June 30‚ 2006.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website or online at: http://www.nj.gov/lps/opra.

If you wish to access the second quarterly reports through ELEC’s website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier in the public records room. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule as provided in the “Open Public Records Act” will apply. Thank you for your cooperation.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a telephonic meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Monday‚ July 17‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for June 20‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director's Report - The Executive Director will discuss the FY-07 budget‚ the flood-related and budgetary shutdown of the Commission‚ staff activities‚ computer news‚ a recent United States Supreme Court case about campaign financing‚ and the fall meeting schedule.
4. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
5. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

As a result of the State shutdown‚ the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has announced that 20-day post-election reports filed by candidates and committees participating in the 2006 Primary Election will be disclosed on Tuesday‚ July 11‚ 2006.

These reports will be available for public inspection after 10:00 a.m. on ELEC’s website and at its offices at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor in Trenton‚ NJ. ELEC’s website address is: www.elec.state.nj.us

Reports filed for these elections reflect the financial activity of candidates and committees. Copies of the reports can also be reviewed at the county clerk’s office where the candidate seeks office‚ or where the candidate resides if his or her district includes more than one county.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website.

If you wish to access the reports through ELEC’s website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. A photocopier is also available for your use in the public records room. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier in the public records room. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply.

We appreciate your cooperation.

The disclosure date for the 20-day post-election reports filed by candidates and committees participating in the 2006 Runoff Election will be announced shortly.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ June 20‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for May 16 and June 6‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director's Report - The Executive Director will discuss staff activities and the summer meeting schedule.
4. Advisory Opinion Request No. 05-2006 - A discussion of a request for an advisory opinion received from Angelo J. Genova‚ Esq.‚ on behalf of Joseph DiVincenzo‚ a 2006 general election candidate for Essex County Executive‚ and Armando Fontoura‚ a 2006 general election candidate for Essex County Sheriff. Mr. Genova has asked whether or not Candidates DiVincenzo and Fontoura are permitted by the Campaign Reporting Act to form a joint candidates committee for the 2006 general election.
5. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
6. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a telephonic meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday‚ June 6‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Advisory Opinion Request No. 04-2006 - A discussion of a request for an advisory opinion received from Paul P. Josephson‚ Esq.‚ on behalf of three charitable entities‚ organized pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and Booker Team for Newark‚ Inc.‚ the 2006 municipal election joint candidates committee of Newark Mayor-Elect Cory Booker and six council candidates. The three charitable entities are Newark Now‚ Inc.‚ Focus Hispanic Center for Community Development‚ Inc.‚ and the Lancelot H. Owens Scholarship Foundation‚ Inc. Mr. Josephson has explained that the three charities are contemplating organizing a joint fundraising event to raise funds for the charities and to celebrate the swearing-in of Mayor-Elect Booker and his running mates. Mr. Josephson has asked whether or not such a joint fundraising event will subject the three charities to the requirements of the Campaign Reporting Act.
3. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has announced the following disclosure calendar for reports filed by the candidates and committees participating in the 2006 June Runoff Election 2006 June Runoff Election:

These reports will be available for public inspection after 10:00 a.m. on ELEC’s website and at its offices at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor in Trenton‚ NJ. ELEC’s website address is: www.elec.state.nj.us

These reports reflect the disclosure of financial activity of candidates and committees. Copies of these reports can also be reviewed at the county clerk’s office in the county where the candidate seeks office.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website.

If you wish to access the reports through ELEC’s website‚ but do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. If you wish to photocopy a report‚ a photocopier is available for your use in the public records room. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply. If you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ a fee will be assessed for each copy.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ May 16‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for April 18‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director's Report - The Executive Director will discuss Commission news‚ staff activities‚ clean elections‚ and the spring/summer meeting schedule.
4. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
5. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has announced the following disclosure calendar for reports filed by candidates and committees participating in the 2006 Primary Election:

These reports will be available for public inspection after 10:00 a.m. on ELEC’s website and at its offices at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor in Trenton‚ NJ. ELEC’s website address is: www.elec.state.nj.us

Reports filed for the 2006 Primary Election reflect the financial activity of candidates and committees. Copies of the reports can also be reviewed at the county clerk’s office where the candidate seeks office‚ or where the candidate resides if his or her district includes more than one county.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website.

If you wish to access the 2006 Primary Election reports through ELEC’s website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. A photocopier is also available for your use in the public records room. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier in the public records room. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Press Advisory

On Tuesday‚ April 18‚ 2006 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the first quarterly report of the two State Political Party Committees and the four Leadership Committees‚ filed on or before April 17‚ 2006‚ will be available for public inspection at the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor‚ in Trenton‚ NJ and on ELEC’s website (www.elec.state.nj.us).

On Monday‚ April 24‚ 2006 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the first quarterly report of 2006 political party committees and continuing political committees‚ and campaign committees‚ filed on or before April 17‚ 2006‚ will be available on the ELEC website and for public inspection at ELEC.

These reports represent the disclosure of financial activity during the period January 1‚ 2006 through March 31‚ 2006.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website or online at: http://www.nj.gov/lps/opra.

If you wish to access the first quarterly reports through ELEC’s website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier in the public records room. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule as provided in the “Open Public Records Act” will apply. Thank you for your cooperation.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ April 18‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for March 21‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director's Report - The Executive Director will discuss ELEC’s budget‚ staff activities‚ the Annual Report‚ Commissioner PFD forms‚ and other matters of interest.
4. Hearing on Gubernatorial Public Financing Debates - A public hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:15 a.m. to receive public comment concerning the administration of the 2005 New Jersey gubernatorial public financing program. The hearing is conducted as part of the Commission’s review and analysis of the public financing program and is intended to obtain witnesses’ recommendations for statutory and regulatory changes.
5. Advisory Opinion Request No. 02-2006 - A discussion of a request for an advisory opinion received from Kenneth E. Pringle‚ who has asked questions concerning the use of a “web-based online political contribution service” to receive contributions for his 2006 mayoral candidacy in the Borough of Belmar‚ Monmouth County.
6. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
7. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has announced the following disclosure calendar for reports filed by candidates and committees participating in the 2006 May Municipal Election:

These reports will be available for public inspection after 10:00 a.m. on ELEC’s website and at its offices at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor in Trenton‚ NJ. ELEC’s website address is: www.elec.state.nj.us

Reports filed for the 2006 May Municipal Election reflect the financial activity of candidates and committees. Copies of the reports can be reviewed at the county clerk’s office where the candidate seeks office.

If you wish to inspect the 2006 May Municipal Election reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website.

If you wish to access the reports through ELEC’s website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. If you wish to photocopy a report‚ a photocopier is available for your use in the public records room. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ March 21‚ 2006‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for February 21‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director's Report - The Executive Director will discuss Commissioner news‚ national news‚ staff activities‚ and the spring meeting schedule.
4. Hearing on Gubernatorial Public Financing Debates - A public hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:15 a.m. to receive public comment concerning the New Jersey gubernatorial public financing program‚ specifically the gubernatorial candidates’ debates. The hearing is conducted as part of the Commission's review and analysis of the public financing program and is intended to obtain witnesses' recommendations for statutory and regulatory changes.
5. Advisory Opinion Request No. 01-2006 - A discussion of a request for an advisory opinion received from Thaddaeus Diggs‚ Special Assistant to the Vice President of Governmental Affairs of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ). Mr. Diggs has asked whether or not the UMDNJ is subject to the provisions of the Legislative and Governmental Process Activities Disclosure Act‚ N.J.S.A. 52:13C-18 et seq.
6. Adoption of Proposed New Rules to Implement “Pay-to-Play” Legislation - A discussion concerning the adoption of proposed new rules to implement pay-to-play legislation that is intended to restrict contributions by business entities involved in contracts with State‚ legislative‚ county‚ and municipal government entities. The proposal was published in the January 3‚ 2006 edition of the New Jersey Register and is available on the Commission’s website‚ www.elec.state.nj.us. The proposal is ripe for adoption at the March 21‚ 2006 meeting.
7. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
8. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

On Tuesday‚ March 7‚ 2006‚ at 10:00 a.m.‚ the 45-day report of the 2006 Inaugural Event Committee will be available for public inspection on ELEC’s Website www.elec.state.nj.us and at its offices at 28 West State Street‚ 13^th floor in Trenton‚ NJ.

If you wish to inspect the reports‚ or if you wish that ELEC staff provide you with photocopies‚ please place your request for information on a Government Records Request Form. The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its Website.

If you wish to access the reports through ELEC’s Website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. A photocopier is also available for your use in the public records room. There is no charge for the first 50 pages of reports printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier in the public records room. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Press Advisory

On Friday‚ February 24‚ 2006‚ at 10:00 a.m.‚ the Annual Reports of Lobbying Activity for calendar year 2005 will be available for public inspection at the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC). Summary data‚ compiled by the staff of the Commission‚ will be available at that time on ELEC’s website at: ww.elec.state.nj.us

The Annual Reports of Lobbying Activity reflect the financial activities of lobbyist organizations and governmental affairs agents. These reports will be available for review in the public records room on the 13^th floor at 28 West State Street in Trenton.

If you wish to access the summary data through ELEC’s website‚ but you do not have access to the Internet‚ the public records room is equipped with Internet-ready terminals for your use‚ at no charge. If you wish to photocopy a report‚ a photocopier is also available in the public records room. There will be no charge for the first 50 pages of the summary data printed from the Internet stations or the photocopier in the public records room. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply.

If you would like to order photocopies of certain reports‚ please place your request for information pursuant to the “Open Public Records Act. ”The Government Records Request Form can be found at ELEC’s office or as a link on its website at http://www.nj.gov/lps/opra. Requests may also be sent via fax at (609) 633-9854.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ February 21‚ 2006 at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for January 17‚ 2006.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The filing of Annual Ethics Forms‚ staff activities‚ a Clean Elections update‚ and the spring meeting schedule will be discussed.
4. Hearing on Proposed New Rules to Implement “Pay-to-Play” Legislation - A public hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:15 a.m. to elicit public comment on proposed new rules to implement recently-enacted “pay-to-play” legislation that is intended to restrict contributions by business entities involved in public contracts. The proposal notice appeared in the New Jersey Register on January 3‚ 2006. The proposed new rules contain separate subchapters for the new “pay-to-play” rules‚ one for Executive Branch contracts‚ and the other for contracts with State agencies in the Legislative Branch‚ counties‚ and municipalities. Among other topics‚ the proposed new rules define terms applicable to the “pay-to-play” legislation‚ reiterate the statutory prohibition on certain contributions by a business during the term of a contract with a government entity‚ impose a duty on a business entity to report a prohibited contribution‚ and clarify the circumstances under which a prohibited contribution may be repaid.
5. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
6. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

Press Advisory

Executive Director Frederick M. Herrmann announced today that the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission is proposing new rules to implement recently-enacted legislation restricting so-called “pay-to-play” contributions. As reflected in the proposed new rules‚ the Commission’s role under the new “pay-to-play” laws begins once a business entity has been awarded a contract‚ valued in excess of $17‚500‚ with a New Jersey government entity. Hermann stated that prior to that point‚ regulation of the award of contracts to businesses that have made “pay-to-play” contributions is primarily a matter of government procurement law and not within the Commission’s jurisdiction.

Herrmann explained that the provisions of the law applicable to Executive Branch contracts differ in significant respects from the provisions that are applicable to contracts with State agencies in the Legislative Branch‚ counties‚ and municipalities because the restrictions on contracts arise from different legislation. Therefore‚ the Commission is proposing two separate subchapters for the new “pay-to-play” rules‚ one for Executive Branch contracts‚ and the other for contracts with State agencies in the Legislative Branch‚ counties‚ and municipalities

Among other provisions‚ the proposed new rules:

• Define terms specifically applicable to the “pay-to-play” legislation such as “business entity‚” “fair and open process‚” and “contribution reportable by the recipient”;
• Reiterate the statutory prohibition on certain contributions by a “business entity” during the term of a contract with a government entity;
• List the entities to which a “business entity” contribution is prohibited;
• Allow‚ under certain circumstances‚ for the repayment of a prohibited contribution;
• Impose upon a “business entity” with a Legislative‚ county‚ or municipal contract a continuing duty to report prohibited contributions;
• Provide procedures to allege a violation of the “pay-to-play” law; and‚
• Recite the Commission’s statutory authority to impose penalties if a business entity with a State‚ Legislative‚ county‚ or municipal contract makes a prohibited contribution and if an entity receives a prohibited contribution.

Dr. Herrmann also announced that the Commission has proposed a new rule to implement that portion of the new law that prohibits contributions by a county political party committee to another county political party committee during the period of time from January 1st through June 30^th of each year‚ a practice commonly referred to as “wheeling.”

The proposed amendments appeared in the New Jersey Register on January 3‚ 2006‚ and are currently available on the Commission’s website at www.elec.state.nj.us. Copies of the Commission’s proposals may also be obtained by calling the Commission at (609) 292-8700.

The Commission will conduct a hearing to elicit public comment concerning the proposal on Tuesday‚ February 21‚ 2006‚ at 11:15 a.m. at:

Election Law Enforcement Commission
Edward J. Farrell Memorial Conference Room
28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor
Trenton‚ New Jersey

The Commission invites participation in the hearing and requests that any testimony be limited to no more than ten minutes. Persons wishing to testify are requested to reserve time to speak by contacting Administrative Assistant Elbia L. Zeppetelli at (609) 292-8700‚ no later than Friday‚ February 17‚ 2006.

Submit written comments by March 6‚ 2006‚ to:

Michelle R. Levy‚ Associate Legal Director
Election Law Enforcement Commission
P. O. Box 185
Trenton‚ New Jersey 08625-0185

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission will have a meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ January 17‚ 2006 at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda* is as follows:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for December 20‚ 2005.
3. Executive Director's Report - Staff activities‚ building renovations‚ a legislative update‚ and the winter meeting schedule will be discussed.
4. Report on Reimbursement of 2005 Gubernatorial Ballot Statement Costs - There will be a discussion of administration of the 2005 Gubernatorial Ballot Statement Program and reimbursements to the 21 county clerks for costs associated with placement of the ballot statements on the 2005 general election sample ballots.
5. Public Comments - The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
6. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on items not listed above arising after publication of this notice.

PRESS ADVISORY - January 5‚ 2006

Press Release

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) today published Local Campaign Financing: An Analysis of Trends in Communities Large and Smal‚ according to Jeffrey M. Brindle‚ Deputy Director.

“This study approaches the analysis of municipal campaign financial activity differently than in the past‚” said Brindle. “In addition to summarizing fundraising and expenditure activity throughout all 566 communities‚ the study contains a detailed comparison of financial activity found in municipalities of varying sizes.”

Also‚ the study compares activity between municipal and legislative candidates‚ and traces fundraising and spending by municipal candidates over the ten-year span 1994-2004.

A total of 50 communities were selected from five population categories for the detailed analysis: over 75‚000‚ between 50‚000 and 75‚000‚ between 25‚000 and 50‚000‚ and up to 25‚000.

“Candidates in General and May non-partisan elections raised $162 million and spent $144 million from 1994 through 2004‚” said Brindle.

The report noted that general election municipal candidates increased fundraising by 98 percent and spending by 120 percent. Total receipts and expenditures declined for May municipal candidates between 1994 and 2004.

“Regarding May municipal elections there are significant differences from year-to-year in terms of the number and size of communities holding these elections‚” said Brindle. “Therefore‚ the most accurate depiction of trends in non-partisan financial activity derives from comparing like election years. For example‚ between like years 1994 and 2002‚ fundraising increased by 161 percent and spending by 198 percent.”

Among candidates running in the 50 selected municipalities‚ 34 percent of contributions were from political parties‚ 30 percent from individuals‚ and 17 percent from businesses‚ and 14 percent from other candidates.

“The percent of contributions from each source varied between population classes‚” said Brindle. “In communities of more than 75‚000 people‚ for example‚ 42 percent of contributions derived from individuals‚ 25 percent from businesses‚ 18 percent from parties‚ and five percent from candidates. In municipalities of between 50‚000 and 75‚000 people‚ 72 percent of contributions stemmed from political parties‚ 17 percent from businesses‚ nine percent from individuals‚ and none from other candidates.”

Mass communication comprises 60 percent of expenditures compared with 40 percent for non-mass communication purposes. Within the mass communication category‚ 82 percent of spending went for print advertising‚ mostly in the form of direct mail. Direct mail constituted 62 percent of mass media spending.

“Interestingly‚ consultants and polling are being increasingly used by municipal candidates‚” said Brindle. “It can be anticipated that funds will be used for these purposes more and more as fundraising increases and municipal campaigns increase in sophistication.”

The 59 page study‚ the 18^th in a series‚ is available at ELEC offices and on-line at www.elec.state.nj.us.

Press Advisory

“Open Public Meetings Act‚” N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.

Commission Meeting Schedule For Calendar Year 2006

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission has announced its meeting schedule for 2006. Unless otherwise indicated in the future‚ meetings will be held at the Commission’s offices at 28 West State Street‚ 12^th Floor‚ in Trenton. It is anticipated that meetings will begin at 11:00 a.m.‚ unless otherwise indicated.