summary
Introduced
10/27/2025
10/27/2025
In Committee
10/27/2025
10/27/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill designates the salt water taffy as the New Jersey State Candy. According to local legend, the treat was created after salt water from a storm damaged the taffy supply of candy maker David Bradley, who, at the request of a customer, sold the first salt water taffy and made the accidental creation a household name. Throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s, with the development of shore communities, confectioners Enoch James, Joseph Fralinger, and William Shriver founded the world-famous James Candy Company, Fralinger's Salt Water Taffy, and Shriver's. The 1928 opening of Jenkinson's Pavilion reflected a northward growth, as salt water taffy became a centerpiece attraction of the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk. As New Jersey is the home and birthplace of salt water taffy, it serves as an ideal symbol for the official State candy.
AI Summary
This bill designates salt water taffy as the official state candy of New Jersey, recognizing the confection's deep historical roots in the state. The legislation highlights the treat's origins in Atlantic City during the 1880s, including a local legend about its creation involving candy maker David Bradley, who reportedly first sold "salt water taffy" after a storm damaged his inventory. The bill emphasizes the cultural significance of salt water taffy along the New Jersey coastline, noting how prominent confectioners like Enoch James, Joseph Fralinger, and William Shriver helped establish the candy's reputation during the late 1800s and early 1900s. By recognizing salt water taffy as the state candy, the bill celebrates New Jersey's long-standing connection to this iconic boardwalk treat, which has been a beloved part of shore community traditions for over 125 years. The designation serves to formally acknowledge the state's role as the home and birthplace of salt water taffy, transforming a local culinary legend into an official state symbol.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee (on 10/27/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4753 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S5000/4753_I1.HTM |
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