N.J. Stat. § 52:35-1: "Person", "official" and "officer defined."

As used in this chapter:

"Person" means and includes any individual, copartnership, association, corporation or joint stock company, their lessees, trustees, assignees or receivers appointed by any court whatsoever.

"Official" and "officer" mean and include any official, officer, board, commission, committee, department or other branch of the state government."

L.1931, c.165, s.11.