PRESS ADVISORY

Executive Director Frederick M. Herrmann announced today that the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission is proposing new rules concerning application for termination of reporting with net liabilities by publicly financed gubernatorial candidates.

The proposed new rules are expected to be published in the New Jersey Register on December 1, 2008, 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, January 20, 2009 at 11:00 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 January 20, 2009 hearing are requested to reserve time to speak by contacting Administrator Elbia L. Zeppetelli at (609) 292-8700 no later than Friday, January 16, 2009.

Submit written comments by January 30, 2009 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 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2008, 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 18, 2008.
3. Executive Director's Report - The executive director will discuss: Commissioner news, staff activities, the history of the Gubernatorial Public Financing Program, and the winter meeting schedule.
4. 2009 Gubernatorial Public Financing Program Preparation – The Commissioners will be presented with an overview of steps which have been taken by staff to prepare for the 2009 public financing program.
5. Proposed Amendments Concerning Permissible Use of Campaign Funds for Legal Fees – The Commission will review a proposal for amendments concerning permissible use of campaign funds for legal fees.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise 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 2009

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission has announced its meeting schedule for 2009. 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 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2008‚ 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 21, 2008.
3. Executive Director's Report - The executive director will discuss: staff activities, staffing and workload history, legislative developments, the winter meeting schedule, and a proposed meeting schedule for 2009.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise after publication of this notice.

PRESS ADVISORY

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission’s website has been ranked first in the northeast and tenth nationally according to Executive Director Frederick M. Herrmann.

Each year The National Campaign Disclosure Project, a collaboration of the California Voter Foundation, the Center for Governmental Studies, the UCLA School of Law, and The Pew Charitable Trusts, releases its annual rankings of internet disclosure across the country. Along with last year’s ranking of tenth nationally, this year’s ranking is the highest grade the Commission has received since the project began in 2003.

“The Commission is rightfully proud of its accomplishments in the area of technology,” said Herrmann. “Each year the Commission’s website shows steady improvement, continuing to be an integral part of ELEC’s mission to bring transparency to the electoral process.”

The Executive Director added: “According to the project’s report, the Commission earned an A or B in each of the four scoring categories for the first time.”

The report gave its highest grade to ELEC’s electronic filing program, which is mandatory for all gubernatorial candidates and for legislative candidates who spend over $100,000.

The Commission’s filer training program that includes: an online certification program for campaign treasurers, a dedicated electronic filing help desk, and multiple class room training seminars were also cited.

“One of the improvements cited,” said Herrmann “is the enhancement of the online searchable database of contributors. Site visitors can now search transactions by a specific date and transaction amount or by donor name, zip code, or employer.”

Herrmann said that the report praised the reconfiguration of the website. He noted that the report stated that “the new site offers a clean design and is organized into easy-to-navigate sections for both the public and filers.”

“Our goal is to help the public understand campaign financing in New Jersey,” said Herrmann. “The website continues to provide detailed contextual information.”

The Commission’s website is very accessible to the public, allowing browsers access to up-to-date information on campaign finance information for all: candidates seeking office in the State of New Jersey, political parties, legislative leadership committees‚ and lobbyists. The website includes white paper studies of campaign financing trends in New Jersey as well as charts depicting campaign financial activity.

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 21‚ 2008‚ 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 30‚ 2008.
3. Executive Director's Report - The executive director will discuss: ethics training for the Commissioners‚ a website award for ELEC‚ a pay-to-play update‚ staff activities‚ and the fall meeting schedule.
4. Adoption of Amendments to Implement Inflationary Campaign Cost Adjustments - The Commission will discuss adoption of proposed amendments to limits and thresholds applicable to gubernatorial candidates‚ and thresholds applicable to non-gubernatorial candidates and committees. The proposal appeared in the New Jersey Register on August 18‚ 2008.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise after publication of this notice.

PRESS ADVISORY - October 9‚ 2008

PRESS ADVISORY

On Thursday‚ October 16‚ 2008 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the third quarterly report of the State Political Party Committees and the Leadership Committees‚ filed on or before October 15‚ 2008‚ 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 Wednesday‚ October 22‚ 2008 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the third quarterly report of 2008 political party committees‚ continuing political committees‚ and campaign committees‚ filed on or before October 15‚ 2008‚ will be available on the ELEC website and for public inspection at ELEC.

These reports represent the disclosure of financial activity from July 1‚ 2008 through September 30‚ 2008.

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

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has announced the following disclosure calendar for reports filed by candidates and committees participating in the 2008 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 2008 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 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 30‚ 2008‚ 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 15‚ 2008.
3. Executive Director's Report - The executive director will discuss: staff activities‚ the NORCOL conference‚ Clean Elections‚ the Governor’s comprehensive ethics reform plan‚ and the fall meeting schedule.
4. Public Hearing on Proposed Amendments to Implement Inflationary Campaign Cost Adjustments - A public hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:15 a.m. to elicit public comment concerning proposed amendments to limits and thresholds applicable to gubernatorial candidates‚ and thresholds applicable to non-gubernatorial candidates and committees.
5. Adoption of Proposed New Rules and Amendments to the Gubernatorial Public Financing Regulations - The Commission will discuss adoption of proposed new rules and amendments to the Commission’s gubernatorial public financing regulations. The proposal appeared in the New Jersey Register on June 16‚ 2008.
6. Proposed New Rules regarding Finalization by Publicly-financed Gubernatorial Candidates with Net Liabilities - The Commission will discuss a draft text of new rules to the public financing regulations that address finalization of reporting by publicly-financed gubernatorial candidates with net liabilities.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise after publication of this notice.

PRESS ADVISORY

Executive Director Frederick M. Herrmann announced today that the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission is proposing amendments concerning inflationary campaign cost adjustments for non-Gubernatorial and Gubernatorial candidates and committees.

According to Herrmann‚ among other provisions‚ the proposed amendments:

• Implement statutorily-required quadrennial inflationary adjustments to specific limits and thresholds in the New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act (N.J.S.A. 19:44A-1 et seq.);
• Apply an index of 13.31 percent to the various limits and thresholds required to be adjusted and round adjustments pursuant to statutory direction;
• Adjust the threshold for Form A-3 (Committee – Sworn Statement); and
• Adjust the threshold for 48-hour notice requirements for political party committees‚ legislative leadership committees‚ independent expenditure filers‚ and candidates.

The proposed amendments are expected to be published in the New Jersey Register on August 18‚ 2008‚ 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‚ September 30‚ 2008 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 September 30‚ 2008 hearing are requested to reserve time to speak by contacting Administrator Elbia L. Zeppetelli at (609) 292-8700 no later than Friday‚ September 26‚ 2008.

Submit written comments by September 17‚ 2008 to:

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

PRESS ADVISORY

The Commission will be posting on its website (www.elec.state.nj.us) today an opening for the position of executive director.  The current executive director‚ Frederick M. Herrmann‚ is retiring under the State’s early retirement incentive program.

PRESS ADVISORY

On Wednesday‚ July 16‚ 2008 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the second quarterly report of the State Political Party Committees and the Leadership Committees‚ filed on or before July 15‚ 2008‚ 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 Tuesday‚ July 22‚ 2008 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the second quarterly report of 2008 political party committees‚ continuing political committees‚ and campaign committees filed on or before July 15‚ 2008 will be available on ELEC’s website and for public inspection at ELEC.

These reports represent the disclosure of financial activity from April 1‚ 2008 through June 30‚ 2008. 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‚ 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 meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ July 15‚ 2008‚ 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 17‚ 2008.
3. Executive Director's Report - The Executive Director will discuss: the Fiscal Year 2009 budget‚ legislative developments‚ staff activities‚ the annual NORCOL conference‚ national campaign financing news‚ a pay-to-play court case‚ and the fall meeting schedule.
4. Public Hearing on Proposed New Rules and Amendments - A public hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:15 a.m. to elicit public comment concerning proposed new rules and amendments to the Commission’s regulations concerning the gubernatorial public financing program.
5. Proposed Amendments to Implement Inflationary Campaign Cost Adjustments - The Commission will review draft text of amendments to the regulations to implement the statutorily-mandated‚ quadrennial campaign cost adjustment process. N.J.S.A. 19:44A-7.1 and 7.2 require that the Commission calculate the change in campaign costs over the past four years and propose amendments to limits and thresholds applicable to gubernatorial candidates and thresholds applicable to non-gubernatorial candidates and committees.
6. Advisory Opinion Request 02-2008 - The Commission will consider a request for an Advisory Opinion by Lynn Schundler‚ Esq.‚ on behalf of the Schundler for Governor 2001 Primary Campaign. Ms. Schundler requests that the Primary Campaign‚ which has continued to file quarterly reports with the Commission to report outstanding obligations‚ be permitted to file a final report with zero obligations based upon the statute of limitations on debt collection.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise 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 and amendments concerning the public financing of primary and general elections for the office of Governor.

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

• Allow the use of personal funds by non-publicly financed candidates to meet all or part of the threshold qualifying amount of contributions to qualify for participation in debates;
• Prohibit loan repayment by non-publicly financed candidates to meet any part of the threshold qualifying amount of expenditures to qualify for participation in debates;
• Require notification by a Gubernatorial debate sponsor to the Commission of changes in debate plans and Commission approval of such changes;
• Provide that the Commission shall consider in a subsequent debate sponsorship application whether or not in a previous gubernatorial election‚ a sponsor applicant had made and notified the Commission of changes and received approval of such changes;
• Remove obsolete references to photocopies;
• Conform the language of N.J.A.C. 19:25-16.19(d) to parallel N.J.A.C. 19:25-15.18(d);
• Correct a typographical error in N.J.A.C. 19:25-15.49(a)2; and
• Restructure N.J.A.C. 19:25-15.17 and N.J.A.C. 19:25-16.18 to provide clarity.

The proposed new rules and amendments appeared in the New Jersey Register on June 16‚ 2008‚ 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‚ July 15‚ 2008 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 July 15‚ 2008 hearing are requested to reserve time to speak by contacting Administrative Assistant Elbia L. Zeppetelli at (609) 292-8700 no later than Friday‚ July 11‚ 2008.

Submit written comments by August 15‚ 2008 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 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ June 17‚ 2008‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^thFloor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda is as follows*:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for May 20‚ 2008.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss: the nomination of a fourth Commissioner‚ staff activities‚ vacant positions‚ and the summer meeting schedule.
4. 2009 Cost Index Report – The Commission will review a draft of the 2009 Cost Index Report. The report describes calculation of the New Jersey Campaign Cost Index (NJCCI)‚ which measures inflation in the costs of campaigns during the period from 2005 to 2008‚ and the resulting adjustments of the limits and thresholds applicable to gubernatorial candidates‚ and adjustments of the thresholds applicable to non-gubernatorial candidates and committees. The report contains recommendations for adjustments to the contribution limits pertaining to non-gubernatorial candidates and committees.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise 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 meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ May 20‚ 2008‚ 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 15‚ 2008.
3. Executive Director's Report - The Executive Director will discuss: national campaign financing news‚ staff activities‚ pay-to-play disclosure data‚ the legislative budget hearings‚ staff shortages‚ legislative developments‚ and the summer meeting schedule.
4. Additional Language for Proposed New Rules on Debate Sponsor Changes - The Commission will discuss additional language for proposed new rules in the gubernatorial public financing regulations for the primary and general elections.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise 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 2008 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 2008 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.

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 2008 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 Wednesday‚ April 16‚ 2008 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 15‚ 2008‚ 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 Tuesday‚ April 22‚ 2008 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the first quarterly report of 2008 political party committees‚ continuing political committees‚ and campaign committees‚ filed on or before April 15‚ 2008‚ 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‚ 2008 through March 31‚ 2008. 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

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has announced the following disclosure calendar for reports filed by candidates and committees participating in the 2008 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 2008 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 2008 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

On Monday‚ April 7‚ 2008 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the Business Entity Annual Statements‚ due to be filed by March 31‚ 2008‚ will be available on the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission’s (ELEC) website (www.elec.state.nj.us). These reports represent the disclosure of contract and contribution activity by business entities that have received $50‚000 or more in the aggregate through public contracts and agreements in calendar year 2007.

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

If you wish to inspect the reports at the Commission’s office‚ or if you wish ELEC staff to 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: www.nj.gov/lps/opra.

PRESS ADVISORY

The Commission is pleased to announce it has issued the 2007 Fair and Clean Elections Report to the Legislative Leadership on Friday‚ March 28‚ 2008‚ pursuant to P.L.2007‚ c.60. The report covers key areas of interest involving the 2007 Clean Elections Pilot Project including: a program history‚ the law‚ promotional materials‚ public hearing comments‚ data‚ and an analysis of the issues that developed as the election unfolded. The report is available on the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission’s (ELEC) website (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‚ March 18‚ 2008‚ at the Commission’s office at 28 West State Street‚ 12^thFloor‚ Trenton‚ New Jersey. The Agenda is as follows*:

1. Open Public Meetings Statement.
2. Approval of Public Session Minutes for February 19‚ 2008.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss: 2008 Financial Disclosure Statements‚ national governmental ethics news‚ praise for ELEC‚ the FY-09 Recommended Budget‚ Legislative Developments‚ and the spring meeting schedule.
4. 2007 Fair and Clean Elections Report (March 28‚ 2008) – The Commission will review a draft report on the 2007 Fair and Clean Elections Report‚ which is due to be submitted to the Legislative Leadership by March 28‚ 2008.
5. Proposed Amendments and New Rules Concerning Gubernatorial Public Financing – The Commission will review proposed amendments and proposed new rules affecting the Gubernatorial Public Financing Program.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise after publication of this notice.

PRESS ADVISORY

The Annual Reports of Lobbying Activity filed with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) reflect the financial activities of represented entities‚ governmental affairs agents‚ and persons or groups communicating with the general public (grassroots lobbying).

On Tuesday‚ March 11‚ 2008‚ at 10:00 a.m.‚ data summarizing the Annual Reports of Lobbying Activity for the 2007 calendar year period will be available in ELEC’s public records room. The summary data‚ which provides total receipts and expenditures‚ as well as a summary of benefit passing‚ will also be available at that time on ELEC’s website at: www.elec.state.nj.us

A copy of every 2007 Annual Lobbying Report will be available for review in the public records room. If you wish to photocopy a report‚ a photocopier is available and there will be no charge for the first 50 pages printed from the photocopier. Thereafter‚ a graduated fee schedule will apply.

Note that you can receive a copy of a specific 2007 Annual Lobbying Report pursuant to the “Open Public Records Act” on and after February 27‚ 2008. If you wish to purchase a copy of an Annual Lobbying Report‚ 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.

PRESS ADVISORY

- MEETING TIME CHANGED -

“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 Tuesday‚ February 19‚ 2008‚ 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 15‚ 2008 and January 23‚ 2008.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss ethics news‚ staff activities‚ and the spring meeting schedule.
4. Proposed Rulemaking Activity in 2008 – The Commission will discuss anticipated rulemaking activity in 2008.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise 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 meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday‚ February 19‚ 2008‚ 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 15‚ 2008 and January 23‚ 2008.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss ethics news‚ staff activities‚ and the spring meeting schedule.
4. Proposed Rulemaking Activity in 2008 – The Commission will discuss anticipated rulemaking activity in 2008.
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 the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise 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 11:00 a.m. on January 23‚ 2008‚ 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. Continued Discussion of Advisory Opinion Request No. 01-2008 - The Commission will continue its discussion and consideration of a request for an advisory opinion received from Richard K. Weinroth‚ Esq.‚ on behalf of the Friends of Senator Wayne R. Bryant‚ the single candidate committee of Senator Wayne R. Bryant (5^th Legislative District). Mr. Weinroth has asked whether or not Senator Bryant may use contributions received by his candidate committee for expenditures for legal fees and expenses in connection with defense of criminal charges.
3. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise after publication of this notice.

PRESS ADVISORY

On Wednesday‚ January 16‚ 2008 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the fourth quarterly report of the two State Political Party Committees and the four Leadership Committees‚ filed on or before January 15‚ 2008‚ 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 Tuesday‚ January 22‚ 2008 at 10:00 a.m.‚ the fourth quarterly report of political party committees and continuing political committees‚ and campaign committees‚ filed on or before January 15‚ 2008‚ will be available on the ELEC website and for public inspection at ELEC.

These reports represent the disclosure of financial activity from October 1‚ 2007 through December 31‚ 2007.

If you wish to inspect these 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 fourth 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 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‚ January 15‚ 2008‚ 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 18‚ 2007.
3. Executive Director’s Report - The Executive Director will discuss staff activities‚ a budget update‚ legislative developments‚ and the winter meeting schedule.
4. Request for Advisory Opinion 01-2008 – The Commission will discuss a request for an advisory opinion received from Richard K. Weinroth‚ Esq.‚ on behalf of the Friends of Senator Wayne R. Bryant‚ the single candidate committee of Senator Wayne R. Bryant (5^th Legislative District). Mr. Weinroth has asked whether or not Senator Bryant may use contributions received by his candidate committee for expenditures for legal fees and expenses in connection with defense of criminal charges.
5. Discussion of Deadlines for Pay-to-Play Disclosure Statement filing by Nonprofit Entities – The Commission will discuss legislation that exempts nonprofit entities from the filing requirement.
6. Petition for Rulemaking by New Jersey Hospital Association – The Commission will discuss a petition for rulemaking received from Karen S. Ali‚ Esq.‚ on behalf of the New Jersey Hospital Association‚ seeking amendments to the definitional sections of N.J.A.C. 19:25-26.1 to exclude nonprofit entities from pay-to-play filing.
7. Reimbursement of County Clerks for Clean Elections Ballot Statement Costs – The Commission will report on the status of the reimbursement of the county clerks for the ballot statement costs incurred in the 2007 Fair and Clean Elections Program.
8. Public Comments – The Chair will ask for public comments at appropriate times during the meeting.
9. Executive Session.

*Formal action may or may not be taken on the items listed above and on items not listed above that arise 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 2008

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission has announced its meeting schedule for 2008. 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.