The more I think about it, I simply cannot tell someone it is OK to buy a $800 Bushy. That is just penny wise and pound foolish.
You can get a NJ compliant ST-15 16" Mid-Length LE Carbine for just a little more money.
Check out:
http://www.spikestactical.com/new/z/st15-16-midlength-le-carbine-p-443.html
List price: $860 (only $10 more than their M4 LE)
NJ Neutering Services: $70
Brake in lieu of flash hider: $30
Shipping: $25
Transfer and NICS: $35
Total: $1,020
($750 Bushy + $15 NICS)* 1.07 = $820
Trust me, that will be the best $200 your friend ever spent.
He gets a better barrel with a faster twist, midlength gas system, and ST's lifetime warranty for the price of one case of ammo.
On a related note. Tell your friend to pass on the ST magazine modifications. He can get NJ 15-round Magpul mags with ranger plates from Midwest PX for $3 more than ST's 10-round compliant mags.
The ST is a good starting rifle and your friend can customize it over time.
Tell you friend good luck and welcome to the club. Warn him that it is an addiction.