NJ S1761

Prohibits business entities holding public contracts exceeding $17,500 from making political contributions over $1,000 to candidate committees, political committees, or continuing political committees of officials involved in awarding contracts, with restrictions applying during the contract term and one year prior.

Eliminates the "fair and open process" exemption that previously allowed contract awards to proceed despite contributions, applying uniform contribution restrictions to all government contracts regardless of bidding process.

Expands coverage to include local boards of education and fire district boards of commissioners, requiring the same contribution disclosure and prohibition rules that apply to state, county, and municipal contracts.

Broadens the definition of "business entity" to include corporate officers, directors, shareholders with 10%+ ownership, partners, members, subsidiaries, and related 527 political organizations, as well as spouses, civil union partners, and children residing with covered individuals.

Repeals the local option provision that allowed counties and municipalities to establish their own contribution limits for business entities, creating a single statewide standard for pay-to-play restrictions.