New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4819

Introduced
10/20/22  

Caption

Establishes Council for Community Recovery and Family Success; appropriates $772.6 million.

Impact

The creation of this Council is expected to improve the state's effectiveness in addressing family crises, moving towards a more integrated approach that focuses on preventative measures rather than only responding to crises. The bill emphasizes the importance of community engagement and stakeholder collaboration, intending to unify the efforts of various state departments and community organizations in addressing the diverse needs of families. By promoting a Bill of Rights for Infants, Children, Youth, and Families, it seeks to elevate the standards and expectations for support services provided to vulnerable populations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4819 establishes the Council for Community Recovery and Family Success, which is designed to develop and implement strategies to enhance the well-being of infants, children, youth, and families across New Jersey. This bill reflects a paradigm shift from a reactive approach to child and family services to a proactive framework that emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and sustainable support systems. It allocates significant funding of $772.6 million over three fiscal years to support these initiatives, aiming to address the long-term social and economic challenges faced by families in New Jersey.

Contention

Notably, the implementation of the Council may face challenges regarding its independence from the Department of Children and Families, as it operates within but outside the supervision of the department. Questions may arise about the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary approach and whether the allocated funds will be sufficient to make a substantial impact. Additionally, there may be concerns about how the council prioritizes funding based on child poverty rates and the varied demographics of New Jersey, ensuring that all communities receive equitable access to resources.

Companion Bills

NJ S2887

Same As Establishes Council for Community Recovery and Family Success; appropriates $772.6 million.

Previously Filed As

NJ A4295

Establishes Council for Community Recovery and Family Success; appropriates $4.0 million.

NJ S2617

Establishes Council for Community Recovery and Family Success.

NJ S3429

Establishes Office of Community Schools; appropriates $10 million.

NJ A4939

Establishes Recovery Housing Assistance Program in DCA; appropriates $5 million.

RI H5169

Establishes, encourages and supports the establishment of family councils and resident councils in managed residential communities providing assisted living services.

RI S0484

Establishes, encourages and supports the establishment of family councils and resident councils in managed residential communities providing assisted living services.

RI H7928

Establishes, encourages and supports the establishment of family councils and resident councils in managed residential communities providing assisted living services.

RI S2875

Establishes, encourages and supports the establishment of family councils and resident councils in managed residential communities providing assisted living services.

NJ A2431

Requires Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services to facilitate establishment of four new recovery community centers.

WV SB1047

Establishing Community Well-Being, Recovery Housing, and Family Stabilization Act

Similar Bills

CA AB1901

Children’s diapers: intentionally added ingredients: disclosure.

NJ S2236

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Children.

NJ A3803

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Children.

NJ SR57

Condemns removal of children from Ukraine by Russia.

NJ AJR151

Condemns Russia's removal of children from Ukraine.

NJ SJR80

Condemns Russia's removal of children from Ukraine.

NJ S4112

Establishes brain injury screening and education program in DCF.

NJ AJR52

Designates third full week in May as "Roxie's Wish: Drowning Prevention Week for Children."