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
NJ school buildings to reopen in September, with major changes
It seems unrealistic for most schools to have all students in attendance and meet social distancing rules. Hybrid approach with some virtual learning likely.
Van Drew Revels in Trump’s Wildwood Rally, His Party-Switch Prize
“How about having the president right here in South Jersey? What a great day!” said Rep. Jeff Van Drew, the Democrat-turned-Republican congressman.
N’s high property taxes keep rising — average is now $8,953
New Jersey’s average residential property tax bill grew at the fastest rate in three years in 2019, 2.1%, reaching $8,953.
Free beaches for NJ teens? Yes, if lawmakers get their way
Beach badge season is over for 2019 – and if some lawmakers get their way, might never return for most teenagers in some Shore towns.
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.