New Brunswick-based Johnson & Johnson is the latest company to stop selling some products in Russia. Johnson & Johnson says it will no longer sell personal care products, joining other big American companies in ceasing some operations there. However, Johnson & Johnson will continue to supply medicine to Russia. Earlier this month, the company said it would suspend clinical trials or any additional investment in Russia. Meantime, the company is increasing humanitarian aid for Ukraine.
Republican leaders in the state Senate and Assembly called on the Democratic leaders in the Legislature to convene a session to adopt tax relief legislation. That bill, sponsored by Sen. Ed Durr and Assemblyman Hal Wirths, would give families $500 to counter rising gas prices and inflation. The call for action comes after Gov. Phil Murphy said late last week that he was open to any creative idea on inflation.
The state Board of Public Utilities continues to hear from stakeholders on the cost impact of New Jersey’s move toward clean energy. The Fuel Merchants Association of New Jersey offered testimony on how the Energy Master Plan will lead to increased costs for both residential and commercial customers. Eric DeGesero, the group’s executive vice president, detailed the price tag for many commercial buildings that would have to switch to electric heat. Energy and Environment writer, Tom Johnson has more on the costs of clean energy in his report here.
Comedian Chris Rock’s upcoming comedy tour has seen an explosion in ticket sales since the incident at the Oscars Sunday night; actor Will Smith walked onstage and slapped Rock after the comedian made a joke about Mr. Smith’s wife. Rock has two shows in Atlantic City on Saturday — and they’re now going for hundreds of dollars per ticket.
