Urges Governor to resume in-person services at DOLWD.
Impact
By resuming in-person services, SR18 aims to address the pressing need for support among residents who have been affected by the pandemic-induced economic downturn. New Jersey's unemployment rate, which was at 7.7% as of March 2021, underscores the urgency of this initiative. The resolution additionally advocates for complete staffing of public-facing offices at DOLWD, ensuring that these services are adequately supported to provide the necessary assistance to individuals facing unemployment or related issues.
Summary
Senate Resolution 18 (SR18) urges the Governor of New Jersey to safely resume in-person services at the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD). This initiative responds to the prolonged closure of in-person services since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in a significant need for these services among New Jersey residents. The resolution highlights that many individuals, especially elderly clients, low-income clients, and those with disabilities, have faced challenges accessing services primarily offered online or via telephone. Thus, the resolution advocates for the restoration of in-person services as a necessary step to provide equitable access to workforce support and unemployment assistance.
Contention
The resolution does not appear to indicate explicit points of contention, but implicit concerns may arise around the logistics of safely resuming in-person services amidst ongoing public health considerations. As the state prepares to lift indoor capacity limits and facilitate a safer work environment, there may be opposition regarding the timing and readiness of DOLWD to resume these services securely. Advocating full staffing may also raise discussions about budgetary constraints and operational readiness within the department in light of recent job losses and service demands.
Directs DOLWD to identify, and post on website, employment opportunities with minimal barriers to entry for persons returning to workforce after imprisonment.
Urges Governor to immediately rescind Executive Order No.411, which permits person with past conviction of indictable offense to serve on jury under certain circumstances.
Requires DOLWD to identify and recruit unemployed individuals for employment in healthcare facilities, home care services, and hospice services; makes appropriation.
Removes requirement for branch office registration certificates and modernizes requirements to notify State and consumers of locations where dentists provide services.