I'm the Statehouse bureau chief for New Jersey 101.5, covering the governor, Legislature and state politics, and had previously covered the Statehouse for Gannett newspapers for more than 15 years. I'm a lifelong New Jerseyan -- raised in Bergen, living in Hunterdon, Rutgers graduate. I'm co-author of the 2012 biography 'Chris Christie: The Inside Story of His Rise to Power.' I am not the Iron Chef with a similar name though sometimes get tweets meant for him, especially around Thanksgiving. Believe me, you don't want my cooking tips.
Michael Symons
Marijuana legalization in NJ on hold until 2020 voter referendum
Marijuana will not be legalized for use by adults in New Jersey any time soon, with the idea now delayed until decided by a voter referendum in November 2020.
Ban on Sales of Baby Walkers in New Jersey Takes First Steps
Pediatricians back a sales ban, despite a big drop in accidents requiring emergency rooms visits. New Jersey would be the first to do it, if the bill passes.
NJ Gas Tax to Increase — Again — by 4.3 Cents in October
New Jersey's gas tax will increase 4.3 cents a gallon on October 1, the state Treasury Department announced. At 41.4 cents, it will be sixth highest in the nation.
NJ gov’t plan to merge half of all school districts — Yours on list?
Advocates say consolidation is about improving education in smaller schools but would also save an undetermined amount of spending.
Legal sports betting approved in NJ — could start any day now
Legal sports betting could begin in New Jersey at any time, now that legislation allowing it has passed. It might even start before Gov. Phil Murphy signs it.
NJ getting ready to allow more bars, restaurants that serve alcohol
A bill that could significantly expand the number of restaurants that can sell beer, wine and spirits has finally gotten an initial vote in the Legislature.
NJ Looks Again at Banning Smoking on All Beaches
The Legislature approved a statewide ban on smoking on public beaches twice, only to see Gov. Chris Christie veto it. But Phil Murphy is now governor.
NJ Gets Ready to Allow Sports Betting
A Supreme Court decision in New Jersey's favor could mean legal sports betting – but its start might require the Legislature to act quickly.
66 Towns in NJ Where Taxes Actually Went Down
The average residential property tax bill in New Jersey last year was $8,690 — up just 1.6% from the year before.
Murphy Making It Harder Again To Get Gun-Carry Permits in NJ
Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration is rescinding the change enacted under Gov. Chris Christie that loosened New Jersey’s restrictions on obtaining a permit to carry a handgun.
2018 Brings These New Laws to New Jersey — Including Some Tax Cuts
The sales and estate taxes are cut at the start of 2018. Other new laws benefit Gold Star families and tweak the date that driver's licenses expire.
NJ’s minimum wage rises in January, with bigger jumps to come
The minimum wage goes up 16 cents in 2018, to $8.60. Democrats wants to speed the increase to $15 – which at current rates won't happen for 30 years.