NJ Spotlight News with Briana Vannozzi

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Memorial Day is this weekend- we'll get the latest from AAA on what you can expect if you're flying or driving.   Plus, Briana Vannozzi spoke with one advocacy group pushing for more funding for childcare in the state. We'll bring you that conversation.   And, the District 12 Congressional primary race is heating up - we recently spoke with one Democratic candidate, Dr. Brad Cohen.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, one Newark charter school's “Blue Ribbon” award is called into question -  our own urban education writer Julie O'Connor tell us all that she uncovered about the school in her reporting  Plus, an alarming new Rutgers study about firearm suicides after the pandemic - and what it reveals about disparities among gun owners. We'll talk to the researcher. And, NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri joins us to discuss the latest on World Cup transit preparations.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News,  concerns are rising about human trafficking during the World Cup games, Briana Vannozzi looks at how officials are here preparing for the global event. Plus, congressional maps could be redrawn across the country - could we see that here in New Jersey? And, we talk with Democratic Assemblyman Andrew Macurdy about what HE wants to shake up in his first term in the legislature.

Tonight we bring you a special NJ Decides edition of NJ Spotlight News with conversations from the four Democratic candidates running in the primary against Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr. in the state's 7th congressional district.     

On this edition of NJ Spotlight News, we take a look at recent conversations we've had on issues that are impacting residents in New Jersey and the nation. Take a listen. 

On this edition of NJ Spotlight News, we take a look at recent conversations we've had on issues that are impacting residents in New Jersey and the nation. Take a listen. 

On this edition of NJ Spotlight News, we take a look at recent conversations we've had on issues that are impacting residents in New Jersey and the nation. Take a listen. 

On this edition of NJ Spotlight News, we take a look at recent conversations we've had on issues that are impacting residents in New Jersey and the nation. Take a listen. 

Tonight we're bringing you a special edition of NJ Spotlight News with another installment of our series "Painting Community." This episode focuses on public art in Camden and highlights the work of Camden native and local artist, De'von Downes.   

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where Joanna Gagis has a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, today marks 100 days since Governor Mikie Sherrill first took office. It's a milestone that many first-time Governors use to highlight their early accomplishments AND set the stage for what's to come.   Plus, the race is on - we talk with CD7 candidate Brian Varela about standing out in a crowded field of candidates in NJ's most competitive House race.   Also, Trenton's lead testing in limbo - a new investigation looks at the challenges in one neighborhood to keep residents informed.   And, Jeopardy champ and NJ native Jamie Ding joins us to talk about his epic run on the show.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a significant ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court today dealt a win to anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers.   Plus, we talk with Congresswoman Analilia Mejia about her first week in Washington and her agenda while in Congress.   Also, falling behind - we look at the concerning results of the state's first literacy screenings for grades K through 3.   And, Democratic candidate Dr. Tina Shah discusses her push to turn District 7 blue.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the World Cup countdown is on- Joanna Gagis talks with the New York / New Jersey Host Committee CEO about the final preps and pushback on pricing.   Plus, Congresswoman LaMonica McIver talks about the latest on her assault charges as well as why she's taking on developers building AI data centers in the state.   Also, the final contract to build the Gateway Tunnel has been awarded. It's a 1.3 billion dollar construction project that'll design and build one mile of new rail tubes under the Hudson River.   And, is offshore wind dead in New Jersey? We look at the future of renewable energy in the state.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Mikie Sherrill took action on a campaign issue she promised to reform as Governor - affordable housing. Sherrill signed an Executive Order, what she calls a whole-of-government approach to increase access and affordability for residents who need housing.   Plus, World Cup costs - from ticket prices to transit, will the games be an economic boon or bust for the state? Joanna Gagis talks with GOP state Senator Mike Testa about his concerns.    Also, we speak with 9-11 Responder and Advocate John Feal about the continued fight in Washington to fund care for those suffering from 9-11 related illnesses, 25 years later.   And, a look at how federal cuts are creating extra challenges for New Jersey's budget.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where we'll have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.  

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, do you ever wonder where your taxes go and how the state actually spends them? Well today, Governor Mikie Sherrill and members of her administration announced the launch of the New Jersey Report Card.   Plus, a possible cancer cluster in Keyport has residents demanding answers about a former landfill site.   Also, Newark teens can vote in their school board elections, so why were some 16 and 17 year olds turned away at the polls this week?   And, Assemblywoman Katie Brennan joins us to talk about her legislative priorities on healthcare, affordable housing and ICE.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, nearly seventy-thousand people have dropped their health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act, as premiums have rising, and the Sherrill Administration says Washington is to blame.   Plus, today is Earth Day, so how is the state handling its environmental challenges? We'll talk with one advocate.   Also, officials say the state's economy is ‘strong and stable' but residents may disagree, according to the latest polls.   And, we talk with one Rabbi about the realities of antisemitism in New Jersey. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey has a new Congresswoman.  Representative Analilia Mejia was sworn in by Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday evening - only 4 days after winning the special election in the state's 11th congressional district.   Plus,  the countdown is on to the World Cup finals here in New Jersey. Are hotels and restaurants ready for the crowds?   Also, a war of words - we talk with the head of the Catholic Diocese of Trenton about the verbal clash between Pope Leo and President Trump over the Middle East conflict.   And, businesses are eligible for refunds on tariffs they've paid - so what should New Jersey businesses know?  

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News,  the saga continues over the closure of Heights University Hospital in Jersey City. After closing their doors in mid-March, the operators of the former Christ hospital, Hudson Regional Health, said last week that they may reopen or move their healthcare services to another facility in the area.   Plus, how are kids in New Jersey doing? The latest Kids Count report is out, measuring their health, education, and more, across all 21 counties.   Also, New Jersey vs. Trump - we look at the nearly 60 lawsuits brought against the Administration.   And, changes to food stamp requirements are having a trickle down effect on New Jersey's foodbanks.  

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Democrat Analilia Mejia won the special election in New Jersey's 11th congressional district shortly after polls closed on Thursday, defeating Republican Joe Hathaway.   Plus, NJ Transit has released their official transportation plan for fans getting to and from the World Cup at Metlife stadium this summer. Train tickets to the games will cost $150 dollars per person for a round trip, and will only be sold to people who have a World Cup game ticket.   And, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable, 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a landmark ruling in the case against Live Nation, the concert giant that owns Ticketmaster. A federal jury has found the company violated antitrust laws by operating as a monopoly, driving up ticket prices for concert-goers.   Also, it's election day for District 11 - who's headed to Congress to fill the seat once held by Governor Mikie Sherrill?   Plus, we look at the impact of the CD 11 results on the balance of power in Washington.   And, environmental groups are joining the fight against the immigration detention center in Roxbury.  

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, hear why some parents are calling for an investigation into the state's office of special education.   Plus, a freight train derailed near Tonnelle Avenue in North Bergen yesterday around 3pm.   Also, we talk with a GOP lawmaker who's pushing back on the state's World Cup spending plan, school funding and more   And, an autism advocate shares what YOU should know about those living on the spectrum. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the World Cup is less than two months away and leaders in the state are preparing for the onslaught of visitors from all around the world. During the games NJ Transit ticket rides from the stadium back to New York could cost around $100, according to the publication, The Athletic.   Plus, the budget is center stage in Trenton right now, we hear from one lawmaker about funding education, energy and public media.   Also, we get the latest on the Iran conflict and where the ceasefire agreement stands.   And, with temperatures on the rise, we look at urban heat islands - what are they and why do they hurt the residents who live in them?

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey residents are still reeling from two recent shootings that've left at least two people dead and 7 injured.   Plus, the World Cup is right around the corner, is New Jersey ready? We talk with Congresswoman Nellie Pou.   Also, Newark Superintendent of Schools Roger Leon joins us to answer critics about the district's spending.   And, will retired public workers get a cost of living adjustment? We'll look at the state's plan.     

Tonight we're bringing you a special edition of NJ Spotlight News, showcasing our NJPBS series 'Painting Community.' This episode focuses on murals in New Brunswick and the way local artists tell the story of the community's history. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New York Penn station could be closed to NJ Transit riders for four hours before the start of each of the eight World Cup games, that'll be held in New Jersey.   Plus, the races are heating up - we talk with District 7 Democratic primary candidate Rebecca Bennett about her race to try to unseat Republican Tom Kean Jr.   Also, a panel of strategists give their take on the hottest congressional races and other news of the day.   And, speaking of those headlines, how are you handling the stress that can come from the constant news cycle? We'll get some tips to help you cope. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a pastor detained by ICE - Congressman Rob Menendez joins us after visiting him at Delaney Hall.   Also, “Put the Phone Away or Pay” - that's the title of a new campaign aimed at ending distracted driving on New Jersey roads. It's part of April's National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.    Plus, we get the latest on state budget negotiations and what might be on the chopping block.   And, we talk with District 12 democratic candidate Dr. Adam Hamawy about his run for Congress.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a controversial plan to turn a massive warehouse in Roxbury into an immigration detention center is under review. The Department of Homeland Security says it will “scrutinize” nearly a dozen warehouses it's already purchased, and will review all contracts signed under former Secretary Kristi Noem.   Also, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments today challenging President Trump's attempt to end birthright citizenship - we get reaction from former New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin.   Plus, we look at the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that impacts conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ youth - what could it mean for New Jersey's ban?   And, from an executive order changing the rules for mail-in ballots to bills working their way through the legislature in New Jersey, we'll look at the latest news coming out of Trenton and Washington.    

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Mikie Sherrill gets “the benefit of the doubt” - we'll get you the latest poll numbers from FDU, on how New Jersey voters think she's doing in her first months in office.   Plus, Advanced Practice Nurses now have more freedom to practice healthcare in New Jersey without the oversight of a physician.   Also, a 500 million dollar deal to lease a new school in Newark draws controversy - the developer is a big political donor to the Mayor - what's going on there?   And, we talk with a social media expert on the historic verdict against Meta and YouTube, as they're found liable for harming kids on their platforms.     

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, protestors took to the streets across the state as part of a national No Kings Day rally on Saturday.   Plus, the partial government shutdown makes history as the longest on record - at 44 days today. We get the latest from Washington as lawmakers are out on spring break.   Also, how safe is your drinking water? A new study looks at the levels of toxic forever chemicals in NJ's drinking water - and there's some positive developments.   And, we talk to a local journalist being sued by a South Jersey school district over his public records requests. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where I'll have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Sherrill has signed three controversial bills into law to protect the rights of immigrants in New Jersey. This comes after years of debate over the legislation and intense objection from Republicans in the legislature.   Plus, U.S. Senator Andy Kim joins us to discuss whether Democrats and Republicans are any closer to a deal on DHS funding.   Also, more clean energy is coming online - but is your bill any lower yet?   And, the chaos in the U.S. Attorneys office might be coming to an end. What does it mean for cases on the docket there?

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Newark is one of about a dozen airports around the country where President Trump has reportedly deployed ICE agents.   Plus, are budget battles looming in Trenton? Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin joins us to discuss the state's fiscal health.   Also, a trio of controversial immigration bills have made it to Governor Sherrill's desk- will she sign them?   And, a data center being built in Vineland is causing concern from local residents. 

Tonight we're bringing you a special NJ Decides edition of NJ Spotlight News with the two major-party candidates running for the 11th Congressional District, to fill the seat left vacant by Governor Mikie Sherrill. The candidates are Republican Joe Hathaway and Democrat Analilia Mejia. They'll face off in a special election on April 16th to fill out the remainder of Governor Sherrill's term through January 2027.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where I'll have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, the deadline is up for towns to comply with the state's affordable housing law - we'll break down what that means.   Plus, scammers are using many different ploys to steal your money. One scam that many people have reported recently pretends to be from a court system, like Newark, Teaneck, Edison and more.   Also, a new report on the toll that fatal police shootings have on the officers involved.   And, March Madness has begun… and so have the bets - the numbers might shock you.  

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, electricity rates in New Jersey spiked 17% in New Jersey last year. For the average household, that's an increase of about $260 a year.   Plus, from the front lines to the home front, what's being done to assist veterans struggling with homelessness in New Jersey.   Also, we talk with a disability rights advocate calling for better protections of wheelchairs and scooters - that all too often break during air travel.   And, Lucy the Elephant is getting a makeover. The 144- year-old South Jersey attraction has been a staple in the Margate community, drawing families and tourists for generations, and has received the federal funding needed to make critical repairs. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a New Jersey woman has been released from ICE custody - after spending a year in a Texas detention center.   Plus, the contract is up for the Elizabeth Detention Center - we'll get you the latest on the renewal process.   Also, the fight rages over who should control the land at Liberty State Park. We talk to one Senator fighting to preserve it.   And, could your beach house have to be raised even higher? We'll look at the controversy over the new REAL rules governing flood prone areas. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Heights University Hospital in Jersey City has officially shut its doors – despite last-ditch efforts from the community to keep it open. The embattled hospital  shuttered on Saturday, closing its emergency department  - for real this time.   Plus, is your commute back on track? We talk to the head of NJ Transit now that the new Portal North Bridge is officially open and operating.   Also, how much aid is your school district getting? Senate Education Chair Vin Gopal joins us to talk about school funding and calls for reform.    And, while the state grapples with the formula, some property taxes in New Jersey are hitting record highs, but it might depend on where you live. We'll break down the numbers.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where we'll have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, another win for the Gateway Tunnel project after an Appeals court sided with New Jersey and New York, rejecting the Trump Administration's request to once again halt payments for the Hudson River tunnel.   Plus, as the war in Iran continues, costs are rising here at home. We'll look at what's happening overseas and the global impact it's having.   Also, Governor Sherrill announced a record spending plan for the state - driven in part by cuts from the federal government.   And, school districts got their allocations today, according to the school funding formula. We'll look at who gained, and who lost. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Mikie Sherrill joins us here in the studio fresh off her first budget address. We'll talk about her plan to put the state on the right fiscal track.   Plus, travel has gotten a lot trickier these days, whether you're taking to the roads, the rails or the skies. Gas prices are soaring as the war between the U.S. and Iran continues to expand across the Middle East.   Also, we get reaction from business and community leaders on what the Governor's proposed.   And, we keep hearing about it - the school funding formula - what is it, how is it calculated, and how should it be reformed? We'll break it all down.  

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you coverage and analysis of Governor Mikie Sherrill's first Budget Address from the Statehouse in Trenton. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, as the war in Iran continues, unrest is hitting home. Two suspects are under arrest after an IED was thrown near New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's home on Saturday.   Also, we get reaction from a University president whose family lives in Iran.    Plus, what will Governor Sherrill cut? We'll look at her options as she prepares her first Budget Address.   And, we talk with state Senate Republican leader Anthony Bucco about his party's proposals to balance the budget.   

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable, with a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists. 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, colleges across the state are feeling the pinch. Rutgers University's Athletic Department hit a $78 million dollar shortfall in fiscal year 2025.   Plus, Congressional and Senate races are heating up  - we talk with Alex Zdan the Republican candidate who's vying for U.S. Senator Cory Booker's seat and Jersey City's Mussab Ali who's running to replace Democratic Congressman Rob Menendez in the June primary.   And, school districts across the state are strapped for cash - will there be any relief in Gov. Sherrill's upcoming budget? 

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, Governor Mikie Sherrill is scaling back a controversial Turnpike expansion plan, her administration has recommended that the New Jersey Turnpike Authority Board move forward with a complete rebuild of the bridge, but with two lanes on each, the same number of lanes that exist now.   Also, the race to replace retiring Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman heats up in the 12th District- we talk with Democratic candidate Sue Altman.   Plus, proposed reforms in the SAVE America Act could impact federal elections here in New Jersey.   And, a new report looks at abortion access in the state since Roe v. Wade was overturned.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, a federal judge ruled against the Trump Administration in favor of New York's congestion pricing.   Plus, as the Trump administration continues to strike Iran, some members of Congress are trying to reign in the President's war powers.   Also, tough choices need to be made to balance the state budget, will those decisions impact New Jersey's business community?   And, there's a new plan to fund the 988 Suicide and Crisis hotline - but will it pass the legislature?

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, New Jersey is responding after President Trump, together with Israeli leaders, carried out major combat operations in Iran this weekend.   Also, the state's facing a $3 billion dollar deficit, we talk with the Republican Budget Officer who's been warning of this for years.   Plus, the Emergency Department at Heights Hospital is set to close in Jersey City. Local leaders says it's a critical service for the community.    And, is your school district using proven methods to teach reading? Many aren't. We'll discuss why.

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, we're bringing you a special NJ Spotlight News edition of Reporters Roundtable – where I'll have a roundup of the top political stories of the week with the help of a panel of local journalists.  

Tonight on NJ Spotlight News, three children were hospitalized after a major car crash in Newark yesterday morning. The crash was the result of a car chase where ICE agents were pursuing a van that they had tried to pull over before the driver tried to escape.   Plus,  Congressman Rob Menendez is one of several federal lawmakers looking for ways to fight President Trump's immigration policies, he'll share how.   Also, Republican state Senator Jon Bramnick holds nothing back on HIS take on the state's budget crisis and more.   And, some foster kids in the state are facing a housing crisis, taking their situation from bad to worse, some foster kids in the state are facing a housing crisis… taking their situation from bad to worse, we'll take a look.