Gov. Sherrill’s EO Institutes 90-day Pause on Rules & Regs Adoption

On Jan 23, 2026

Gov. Mikie Sherrill today signed Executive Order No. 7, instituting a 90-day pause on the proposal and adoption of new rules and regulations.

“I am committed to putting New Jersey residents first and ensuring our state government truly works for the people it serves. This means breaking down red tape, eliminating bureaucracy, and saving New Jerseyans’ time and money. Following today’s executive order, we will review proposed regulations in the pipeline and deliver lasting, positive change for communities across the state,” the governor said.

Under the Executive Order, no agency shall propose or adopt any rule for a period of 90 days, subject to exceptions. Any rules that have been filed with the Office of Administrative Law (OAL), but not published in the New Jersey Register, shall be withdrawn.

State agencies that have pending proposed rules will notify the governor by Feb. 2, of any proposals whose non-adoption will adversely impact public health or security or obstruct essential operations, among other considerations. The governor can then consider whether to lift the pause on those proposals before the end of the 90-day pause.

“NJBIA very much supports Governor Sherrill’s signing of this EO today,” said NJBIA President and CEO Michele Siekerka in a statement. “Obviously, the business community has been very concerned about pending regulations left over from the Murphy administration which we feel will do great damage to the economy – most notably the proposed Department of Labor’s independent contractor rules, data privacy rules under the Attorney General’s office, and several others.

“But beyond that, Governor Sherrill’s pause on the proposed regs is simply good governance. With this change in leadership, it’s important to take account of what is pending and what is proposed to ensure it aligns with the Sherrill administration’s priorities.

“As I often say, a good process yields a fair result. NJBIA thanks Governor Sherrill for this timeout and we look forward to continuing conversations about proposed regulations, both current and future.”

For a copy of Executive Order No. 7, click here.

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

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