summary
Introduced
12/11/2025
12/11/2025
In Committee
12/11/2025
12/11/2025
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 along the state's coastline. The legislation highlights the legendary origins of salt water taffy, which reportedly began in the 1880s when candy maker David Bradley accidentally created the treat after a storm flooded his shop and damaged his taffy supply. The bill emphasizes New Jersey's significant role in the development of salt water taffy, noting how prominent confectioners like Enoch James, Joseph Fralinger, and William Shriver established the candy's popularity along the Jersey Shore boardwalks during the late 1800s and early 1900s. By officially recognizing salt water taffy as the state candy, the bill celebrates a beloved treat that has become synonymous with New Jersey's coastal culture and has been enjoyed by residents and tourists for over 125 years. The law will take effect immediately upon enactment, formally cementing salt water taffy's status as a symbolic representation of the state's culinary and cultural heritage.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee (on 12/11/2025)
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/A6248 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/A6500/6248_I1.HTM |
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