Murphy Outlines Goals in Final State Address

In his final State of the State Address, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy outlined an ambitious agenda for his last year in office, emphasizing goals such as providing 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave and banning cell phones in K-12 schools to combat distractions and cyberbullying. Murphy highlighted the state's population growth and record levels of employment, crediting his administration's focus on progressive values, including raising the minimum wage to $15.49 per hour. He proposed making abortions free and stockpiling the abortion pill, mifepristone, while also aiming for full-day kindergarten in every district and same-day voter registration. Critics, including Republican leaders, challenged Murphy's optimistic portrayal of the state's economic situation, pointing to rising costs of living and property taxes. Additionally, Murphy's administration has fully funded the state pension system for four consecutive years and provided substantial property tax relief. As he prepares to leave office in January 2026, Murphy remains determined to push for these initiatives despite potential legislative resistance.