summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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 officially designates salt water taffy as the New Jersey State Candy, recognizing its historical significance and connection to the state's identity. The bill highlights that salt water taffy was created in Atlantic City in the 1880s and has been a popular treat for over 125 years, particularly along the Jersey Shore, a popular destination for residents and tourists. It recounts the popular legend of its accidental creation by candy maker David Bradley and notes the rise of prominent confectioners like Enoch James, Joseph Fralinger, and William Shriver who established well-known taffy businesses. The bill also points to the taffy's importance as an attraction on boardwalks, such as the one in Point Pleasant Beach, further solidifying its status as an ideal symbol for New Jersey.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/A2712 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A3000/2712_I1.HTM |
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