Some state lawmakers are looking to keep the lights on in New Jersey's classic diners with a legislative lifeline.

State Sen. Paul Moriarty is sponsoring the "Saving Our Diners and Protecting Our Past," or SODAPOP Act, a bill introduced in the NJ senate in December 2025.

RELATED: Classic NJ diners could get a helping hand from the state

Moriarty says it would establish an historic diner and family restaurant registry, offering eligible businesses an annual tax credit up to $25,000.

"This would apply for diners and family restaurants that have been in existence for at least 25 years," said Moriarty.

The proposed bill is now making its way to the Senate committee, and Moriarty hopes to have it passed by the end of the year.

"Everyone has a memory of either going to a diner with friends late at night after a night on the town or maybe with family after church on Sunday," he said.