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 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.
Murphy: Full-Speed Ahead on Millionaires Tax, Legalizing Marijuana
Gov.-elect Phil Murphy says he understands why lawmakers are sounding cautious but remains committed to enacting those campaign promises.
Christie Raises NJ Smoking Age to 21 — Will This Prevent New Smokers?
New Jersey’s smoking age is being increased to 21 under one of 53 bills signed into law Friday by Gov. Chris Christie.
Budget impasse leads to NJ government shutdown – here’s what’s open & closed
Gov. Chris Christie has directed nonessential state services to be shut down because New Jersey’s new fiscal year began Saturday without an approved budget.
NJ considers using more cigarette tax money on programs to help people quit
The CDC says New Jersey should spend $103 million on anti-smoking efforts. It spends $10 million, mostly federal funds -- but may add $7 million to the cause.
New Lower Speed Limits Near NJ Schools: Safety or Speed Traps?
Speed limits on roads adjacent to schools may be lowered if a bill advanced by an Assembly committee makes into law. A plan to triple fines was dropped.