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Sherrill Sworn In as N.J. Governor, Freezes Utility Rate Hikes in Day-One Orders

Her first moves test the limits of state authority over regional energy costs.

Overview

  • Sherrill signed two executive orders declaring a state of emergency on utility costs and freezing rate hikes for New Jersey families.
  • One order uses existing funds to offset expected June bill increases, empowers the Board of Public Utilities to pause or modify utility actions, and initiates a review of utility business models.
  • A companion order accelerates in‑state power generation by fast‑tracking solar and battery storage in the near term and pursuing nuclear power over the longer term.
  • In her inaugural speech, she criticized President Trump, accusing him of 'illegally usurping power' and linking higher costs to his tariff policies.
  • She begins her term facing a reported budget shortfall exceeding $1.5 billion with a statutory deadline to submit a budget proposal by the end of February.