New Jersey is a state of innovation, natural beauty, and bustling communities. But beneath the surface of everyday life, a complex and ever-evolving legal landscape is at work, shaping everything from our economy to our personal safety. At Explore New Jersey, we believe in shedding light on these critical developments, helping you understand the forces that protect and define our Garden State. Today, we’re diving into some of the latest legal news impacting our state, from environmental battles to consumer protection.
Wrecking Ball in the Water: The Empire Wind Project Under Scrutiny
One of the most significant legal battles currently unfolding in New Jersey involves the ambitious Empire Wind project. Fishermen and environmental groups have filed for an injunction to halt construction of this offshore wind farm, citing grave concerns about potential harm to marine life, alleged legal violations, and even questions of foreign control. This isn’t just a local issue; it’s a debate that pits renewable energy goals against deeply rooted environmental and economic concerns for New Jersey’s coastal communities. The outcome of this injunction request will have far-reaching implications for both our marine ecosystems and the future of offshore wind development in the region.
Holding the Line: Municipalities Face Sanctions for Frivolous Lawsuits
In a significant ruling from the Supreme Court of New Jersey on May 7, 2025, a clear message was sent to local governments: municipalities are not exempt from accountability when it comes to legal actions. The court held that municipalities and municipal corporations that engage in frivolous litigation are subject to sanctions under New Jersey’s Frivolous Litigation Statute (FLS). This decision, stemming from the case of Borough of Englewood Cliffs v. Thomas J. Trautner, reinforces the principle that even governmental bodies must adhere to responsible legal practices. It’s a move that aims to deter unnecessary and burdensome lawsuits, ultimately protecting taxpayer resources and ensuring a fair legal process for all.
Cracking Down on Unlicensed Practices: The Med-Spa Enforcement Wave
New Jersey is taking a firm stance against unlicensed medical procedures, especially within the booming “med-spa” industry. This commitment to consumer protection was recently underscored by a significant action against a Bergen County spa owner. Ana Velazco, who operated Fabsilhouette (also known as Medical Massage Network) in Fair Lawn, has been permanently barred from operating a similar business in New Jersey and has had her massage and bodywork therapy license suspended for five years. She was also fined $15,000 by the Board of Medical Examiners for illegally performing invasive aesthetic treatments without proper medical training or licensure.
The allegations against Velazco are serious, including procedures like suture removal, fluid drainage on post-surgery clients, Mesolipo fat-dissolving injections, and microneedling – all services that legally require a licensed physician to perform. A March 2023 investigation by the Division of Consumer Affairs uncovered disturbing evidence, including syringes, needle tips, topical anesthetics, and hazardous medical waste on site.
Attorney General Matthew Platkin emphasized the state’s dedication to upholding professional licensing laws, stating that “Professionals who put the public at risk by performing services that exceed the scope of their licenses, especially those involving invasive medical procedures, will face serious consequences.” Elizabeth Harris, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the serious harm clients face when individuals perform medical procedures without the necessary qualifications.
This enforcement action is part of a broader, ongoing crackdown by the state over the past two years against alleged unlicensed medical practices in med-spa settings. Other businesses that have faced civil penalties for similar violations include:
- Skyn Spa in Clifton ($10,000)
- Carolina Nunez Skincare in Union ($22,500)
- Marysol’s Beauty Works in Union ($17,650)
- Katica Body Contour Salon in Elizabeth ($20,000)
These actions send a clear message: in New Jersey, consumer safety and adherence to professional standards are paramount. It’s a reminder for residents to always verify the credentials of practitioners before undergoing any invasive treatments.
At Explore New Jersey, we are committed to keeping you informed about the legal and regulatory developments that protect our communities and ensure a fair and safe environment for everyone in the Garden State.
For more in-depth coverage on the legal landscape, business trends, and technological advancements shaping New Jersey, visit our Technology & Business section.