SWEENEY STATEMENT ON COMMITTEE APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EXTENSION OF GUBERNATORIAL AUTHORITY ON EMERGENCY HEALTH POWERS

January 6, 2022

Trenton – Senate President Steve Sweeney issued the following statement on Senate Concurrent Resolution 165, approved by the Senate Health Committee today, granting the Governor the extended authority to address the emergency medical and health care needs of the Covid crisis:

“The recent resurgence in Covid cases has imposed critical demands on our health care system that need to be addressed. This resolution will authorize the 45-day extension of administrative orders, executive directives and guidance issued by the Governor during the pandemic to address crisis conditions in our hospitals and other health care facilities.

“The extended waivers and authorizations will grant the administration and the health care community the ability to counter the more acute and persistent problems that plague the health care system. The staffing shortages are systemic, threatening to put a chokehold on hospitals, long-term care centers, paramedic services and even doctors’ offices. The resolution will enable frontline medical services to manage the crisis by helping to resolve the severe staffing shortages and provide them with the regulatory flexibility to ensure patients are treated safely and effectively.

“We need to stand with the health care professionals who have served on the frontlines of the crisis so we can ensure the health and safety of the people of New Jersey as we work to emerge from the pandemic.”

SWEENEY BILL TO EXPAND ELIGIBILITY TO BECOME A CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT ADVANCES

January 6, 2022

Trenton – In an effort to expand the ranks of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee today advanced legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney that would establish a program to enable family members and others to train as CNAs and provide private duty nursing services to NJ FamilyCare or Medicaid enrollees under age 21.

“While we continue to recuperate from the losses felt early on during the COVID-19 pandemic, nursing homes nationwide are still struggling to bolster an overstretched direct-care workforce that helps more than one million facility residents nationwide,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “Our nursing home population is one of the state’s most vulnerable, and it is imperative that we do everything we can to ensure they are receiving the attention and care they deserve. By establishing this program, we will be able to expand who can become a CNA, fill staffing gaps and care for everyone in the way they deserve to be cared for.”

The bill, S-3847 would require the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS) to establish a program to allow a family member of an enrollee in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare, or a third-party individual approved by the enrollee’s parent or guardian, to become qualified as a CNA. They would be able to provide CNA services to the enrollee through a private duty nursing agency, under the direction of a registered nurse. Specifically, an individual who becomes a CNA under the program would be reimbursed at a rate of at least $30 per hour.

Under the bill, the program would only apply to enrollees who are under 21 years of age and qualify for private duty nursing services under Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare. The DMAHS would be required to develop an assessment tool that would readily identify enrollees who meet the criteria for eligibility.

In order to become a certified CNA, family members or approved third-party individuals would be required to complete all of the training, testing, and other qualification criteria that are required under state and federal law for certification as a CNA.

The bill was released by a vote of 11-1.

SWEENEY NAMES WEINBERG TO HORIZON BOARD

January 6, 2022

TRENTON – Senate President Steve Sweeney today announced the appointment of Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg to the Board of Directors of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey.

“Loretta Weinberg’s distinguished career of public service has been defined by a selfless commitment to the needs of others and a fierce determination to improve the quality of life for everyone – especially those experiencing hardship,” said Senator Sweeney. “I have complete confidence in her ability to contribute to Horizon’s role and responsibilities as the largest health insurer in New Jersey with a mission that embraces charitable services for those in need. The delivery of affordable medical care is more important than ever in a rapidly evolving health care industry. Loretta will be an astute and effective advocate for the people Horizon serves.”

Senator Weinberg notified Senator Sweeney that she is stepping down from her Senate seat. Her resignation takes effect tomorrow, she informed the Senate President.

Horizon is the state’s largest health insurer, providing coverage for 3.7 million New Jersey residents. In addition to its legal obligation to provide “affordable and accessible” coverage to its members, the not-for-profit company continues to pursue a public service obligation of providing charitable care.

Senator Weinberg served as Majority Leader in the Senate for 10 years, the longest tenure for the Senate’s second-highest position in state history. Before that, she served as vice-chair of the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee. She was the Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor in 2009.

SWEENEY PRAISES LAUNCH OF NEW JERSEY’S FIRST VETERINARY SCHOOL AT OPENING CEREMONY

December 29, 2021

SEWELL – Senate President Steve Sweeney today applauded the creation of the Rowan University School of Veterinary Medicine at a ceremony on the Rowan College, South Jersey, campus, where the new school will be located. Funded with a $75 million state appropriation, the new program will make Rowan only the second university in the nation with a medical school, a veterinary school and a school of osteopathic medicine.

“Launching New Jersey’s first school of veterinary medicine at Rowan University is just the latest in a series of strides we have made in expanding and improving the quality of medical education and research over the past decade,” said Senate President Steve Sweeney. “With this investment, we will be able to keep our best and brightest veterinary students in New Jersey, and we will attract aspiring veterinarians from other states to study here as well.”

SWEENEY, BURZICHELLI LAUD REPAUNO PORT AND RAIL TERMINAL LAUNCH

December 28, 2021

West Deptford - Senate President Steve Sweeney and Deputy Assembly Speaker John Burzichelli today lauded the opening of the Repauno Port and Rail Terminal in Greenwich Township. The site is one of the most active maritime markets in the northeastern United States and has been redeveloped into a multi-use port facility.

“The Repauno Port and Rail Terminal offers tremendous opportunity because it is located in the center of one of the most active maritime markets in the United States,” said Senator Sweeney. “Over 40 percent of the United States population can be reached from this location in less than a single day. The improvements that were made will ensure that the site is more accessible and fully capable of meeting market demand. I hope to see other sites emulate Repauno’s success as we continue to build South Jersey’s port capacity.”

“Repauno’s will bring jobs and economic growth to Greenwich Township and Gloucester County, as we continue to build our maritime economy along the Delaware,” said Assemblyman Burzichelli. “The deep draft dock and the easy access to major highways will make this project a rousing success.”

The Repauno Port and Rail Terminal sits directly on the Delaware River with easy truck access to I-295 and I-95. The newly constructed facility now features a multi-purpose dock with a 40-foot draft, a state-of-the-art trans-loading operation, a hard rock cavern for storing bulk liquid/gases, and available acreage with build-to-suit logistical sites available for development.

SWEENEY - CUNNINGHAM LEGILASTION TO BOOST REENTRY SERVICES SIGNED INTO LAW

December 22, 2021

TRENTON – Legislation authored by Senate President Steve Sweeney and Senator Sandra Cunningham that would expand the scope of support services and assistance for the reentry of former offenders has been signed into law.

The new law, formerly S-2953, will update the state’s “Fair Release and Reentry Act of 2009,” which has proven successful in aiding the transition of inmates released from state prisons, to include those from county correctional facilities. It would also extend the post-release timeframe for qualifying for reentry services and facilitate access to health care and emergency services.

“If we want to give former offenders a fair opportunity at a second chance we have to help address the obstacles to their successful reentry into society,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “These services have proven to be successful at state facilities so there are good reasons to expand the scope to include counties. This can make a real difference in the lives of men and women who are returning to their families and communities as productive members of society.”

“This bill will help to address the significant obstacles faced by inmates in obtaining what can be life-sustaining benefits when they are released from incarceration,” said Senator Cunningham (D-Hudson). “One of the biggest barriers facing the reentry community upon release is lack of photo identification, which is needed to apply for general assistance, housing or employment.”

Under the previous law, allowance is made for state inmates to be provided, within 10 days of their release, various documents, information, and other items critical to their reentry efforts. This helps them obtain food stamps, cash assistance and temporary emergency housing under the state’s general assistance program, and Medicaid, including behavioral health services such as addiction treatment and mental health care.

The expanded law, which was signed Tuesday, will now mandate that county facilities issue these same documents, matching the current requirement for state inmates. It will also require that individuals be given a 90-day supply of prescription medication upon release and that social service organizations are notified in advance to help arrange reentry services upon release.

Reentry reform advocates across the state have praised the new measure.

“This legislation is of extreme importance to providing persons released from prison and jail with the tools to survive in the first thirty days after release,” said former Governor Jim McGreevey, Chairman, New Jersey Reentry Corporation. “If you are released from prison without food, shelter, medicine, and a recognized identification, in order to survive there is little recourse but return to crime. I am most grateful to the Senate President and Senator Cunningham for believing in second chances, but more importantly, providing state and federal services so that people have the opportunity to do ‘the next right thing.’”

Senator Cunningham emphasized the importance of arranging benefits in advance of inmates’ release. To ensure that there is no delay in acquiring necessary services, corrections officials would be required to complete, on behalf of inmates, applications for enrollment in social service programs.

The measure also eliminates the provision in current law that prohibits those convicted of an offense involving the use, possession, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance from receiving Work First New Jersey benefits.

SWEENEY BILLS TO PROTECT CASINO JOBS ENACTED

December 22, 2021

Senate President: 2 to 4 casinos would have closed without laws

TRENTON – Senate President Steve Sweeney today applauded the enactment of two laws designed to avert casino shutdowns and preserve jobs in an Atlantic City gaming industry hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Like the original PILOT law that averted casino bankruptcies, these new laws were needed to prevent the potential closures of two to four casinos in the wake of two rocky years of reduced tourism and convention cancellations due to Covid-19 restrictions and fears,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland.

“We have had tremendous investment in Atlantic City by the casino industry in recent years that created thousands of additional jobs both in the casinos themselves and in related service industries,” he said. “We can’t afford to turn back the clock on the progress we have been making.”

Governor Murphy last night signed into law S-3994 and S-4007, a pair of bills sponsored by Senator Sweeney designed to stabilize the casino industry. Both measures passed the Senate and Assembly on Monday.

S-4007 modified the original 2017 law requiring casinos to make Payments In Lieu of Property Taxes (PILOT) to make a $110 million payment in 2022, with PILOT payments for 2023 to 2026 to be determined based on gross gaming revenues. The law excluded Internet sports betting and Internet casino gaming revenues from calculations of those property tax-based payments.

S-3994 provides tax credits to casinos directly for rehiring former workers, hiring new employees, and marketing and promotion efforts to draw additional tourists to Atlantic City for gaming, hotels, entertainment and conventions.

SWEENEY BILLS IN SUPPORT OF DISABLED APPROVED BY SENATE

December 20, 2021

Three Measures Would Train Direct Care Workers, Establish Transitional Centers and Fund Workplace Accommodations 

TRENTON – Three bills authored by Senate President Steve Sweeney that would aid the disabled were approved by the Senate today. The measures would set up training programs at county colleges to train the direct care workers who care for the disabled, establish college-based transitional centers for adults with disabilities, and provide loans to businesses to make workplace accommodations to facilitate the needs of disabled employees.

“These bills will ensure that New Jersey continues to make real progress in improving the lives and livelihoods of those with developmental disabilities,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “They will help improve the skills of the direct care workers who are so important to the disabled, facilitate the transition of the disabled at a critical time in their lives, and make reasonable workplace accommodations so they can maintain life-affirming employment. This is about equal opportunities for the disabled so they can live full, rewarding lives as contributing members of society.”  

The bill to train direct care workers, S-4102, would have the Secretary of Higher Education develop a training program that each county college would operate with grants from the state. Direct Support Professionals are critical caregivers who work closely with a person of any age who has an intellectual, developmental, mental, or physical disability, and whose work supports the client in making gains towards self-sufficiency and community integration. The measure, which includes $450,000 for its implementation. The Senate vote was 37-0.

The bill establishing adult transition centers for individuals with developmental disabilities, S-4211, would allow the board of trustees of a county college to establish a county college-based adult center for transition for developmentally disabled individuals up to the age of 24. This would facilitate a more successful transition from secondary school to post-secondary education, adult employment, and independent living opportunities. The legislation would appropriate $4.5 million annually for its implementation. The Senate vote was 39-0.

The bill to help facilitate the needs of the disabled in the workplace, S4210, would require the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to establish and administer a low-interest loan program for small to medium-sized businesses to make “reasonable” workplace accommodations for their employees with disabilities. For use by companies with up to 100 employees, the low-cost loans could be used to modify the application or hiring process, the way the job is performed, or the work environment that allows an employee with disabilities who is qualified for the job to perform the essential functions of that job and enjoy equal employment opportunities. The Senate vote was 39-0.

SENATE PASSES BILL TO PROTECT MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN NEW JERSEY

December 20, 2021

TRENTON – The Senate today voted to approve legislation that would help preserve the rights of same-sex couples and LGBTQ families in New Jersey by putting into state statute protections for marriage equality established by court decisions.

Sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney, Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg and Senator Vin Gopal, the bill, S-3416, would codify into New Jersey law the right of same-sex couples to marry.

“This is about acting to ensure equal treatment and civil rights for all New Jerseyans, including same-sex couples,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “Marriage equality respects the rights of loving couples who deserve to be treated equally. The courts have ruled that same-sex marriages are a fundamental right, but we want to put it into statute to protect against any backtracking by the U. S. Supreme Court. ”

A state statute would bring New Jersey law in line with the 2013 State Supreme Court decision in Garden State Equality v. Dow as well as the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Obergefell et al. v. Hodges, which held that same-sex marriage is a fundamental right and that all states are required to allow same-sex couples to marry.

 “Devoted same-sex couples all across New Jersey are raising families as contributing members of their communities,” said Senator Weinberg (D-Bergen). “We fought to correct the injustice that denied these rights for too many loving couples for far too long. We don’t want to see those rights lost to an arch-conservative agenda of recent Supreme Court appointees.”

“Basic equal rights should not be denied to any class of citizen, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation,” said Senator Gopal (D-Monmouth). “The law must protect all civil rights and continue to honor the union between two people who love each other. We need to make these rights more secure by writing them into law.”

The head of Garden State Equality, a leading advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights, expressed his organization’s support for the legislative action.

“With a conservative leaning Supreme Court we cannot afford to sit by in hopes the Justices will leave Obergefell v. Hodges intact,” said Christian Fuscarino, Executive Director, Garden State Equality. “Our Legislature must act to preserve this sacred right. On behalf of Garden State Equality, I would like to thank Senate President Sweeney for prioritizing this bill and HIV decriminalization during lame duck. We thank the Senate for voting to codify marriage equality into law and ensure New Jersey not only continues to lead the nation on issues of equality, but safeguards them for decades to come.”

The Senate vote was 35-4.

SWEENEY TOUTS ECONOMIC GROWTH IN MEETING WITH SOUTH JERSEY CHAMBER

December 17, 2021

Trenton – Senate President Steve Sweeney today touted the progress that South Jersey has made as a region, and pledged to continue to work in a bipartisan manner to make the state affordable and prosperous in the years ahead.

“Our economic prosperity and competitiveness as a region and as a state will be based on our ability to make it affordable for our families to live here, for our kids to go to college here, for our seniors to retire here, and for our businesses to thrive and grow,” Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland) said in his annual December end-of-year address to the Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey.

Senator Sweeney pledged that affordability would be the focus of the public policy institute he is planning to launch. “We’re going to bring together the best experts and put together a bipartisan board to work on solutions that can be embraced by Democrats and Republicans alike,” Senator Sweeney said. “They can’t fix Washington, but together we can fix New Jersey.”

Senator Sweeney thanked Christina Renna, President and CEO of the Chamber, the more than 100 business, academic, healthcare and labor leaders at the luncheon in Mount Laurel for working with him. “Look around South Jersey, and you will see the results of what we have achieved working together.”

He praised the rapid growth of Rowan University and Stockton University as economic drivers in the region. “Lockheed Martin is here because they can hire 200 engineers a year from Rowan. If we didn’t have this university, we wouldn’t have Lockheed Martin,” he asserted. He lauded Stockton’s decision to open an Atlantic City campus as critical to the city’s redevelopment.

Senator Sweeney said a diversified energy portfolio – nuclear, natural gas and offshore wind -- is critical to holding down energy costs and creating jobs. He noted that he fought Orsted to bring manufacturing jobs to the Paulsboro port,

and noted that the new Windport in Lower Alloways Creek is so successful that “six international companies have put in for lease space on what was 200 acres of dredge spoils.”

“We have a lot of work to do to make South Jersey and the entire state the affordable, competitive and prosperous place to raise a family we all know it can be,” Senator Sweeney said. “I am not going away. I promise you that I will be just as forceful voice for the changes we still need to make to achieve our dream.”

The CCSNJ is the region’s largest, most active, and influential business organization, representing Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem counties.

SENATE PRESIDENT SWEENEY ATTENDS ABILITIES SOLUTIONS ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY

December 17, 2021

Trenton – Senate President Steve Sweeney attended the Abilities Solutions Annual Holiday Party in Westville today to show his appreciation for all they do to assist individuals in the community with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“The continued work that the Abilities Solutions team has put in to assist individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful employment opportunities, especially amidst the ongoing pandemic, is incredibly admirable. This organization is close to my heart,” said Senate President Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland) “Abilities Solutions provide a safe work environment that showcases the abilities that people with disabilities possess, giving them skills to be productive members of society.”

Abilities Solutions was founded in 1963 and work to provide employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and address other barriers to their full participation in the workforce. Today, Abilities Solutions serve about 1,000 people with disabilities or other disadvantages each year. They partner with employers in South Jersey to identify job opportunities, and provide valuable workers for more than 200 businesses.

THIRD DISTRICT LEGISLATORS ANNOUNCE $1 MILLION IN HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE GRANTS

December 16, 2021

West Deptford - Senate President Steve Sweeney, Deputy Speaker John J. Burzichelli and Assemblyman Adam J. Taliaferro today announced three LIHEAP grants totaling more than $1 million from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.

The Gateway Community Action Partnership received a $592,982 award from the state’s LIHEAP Assistance program to provide low-income households from Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem Counties with financial assistance to meet their heating and cooling expenses. The Gateway Community Action Partnership works to provide services that improve people’s quality of life and promote self-sufficiency.

“We are grateful to receive these grants which will be beneficial for many families living within our district,” said Senator Sweeney. “With cooler temperatures creeping in, our working families that have been financially hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic may struggle to pay their utility bills. Through this funding, it is our hope that we can reduce this burden and keep them warm in their homes in the coming months.”

Lightup Your World Inc. received a $405,000 award from the LIHEAP Assistance Outreach program to assist residents of Burlington, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties initiate, complete and submit applications online for home energy assistance.

“Across New Jersey, many low-income families are struggling to get by and will benefit greatly from having home energy assistance as we enter into the winter months,” said Assemblyman Burzichelli. “These funds will have a positive impact on working families across our district, and will hopefully reduce some of their financial anxiety by lowering their utility bills.”

Lightup Your World provides programs and services to help economically disadvantaged individuals and families residing in Burlington, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem counties. They arrange for and provide financial assistance that gives immediate relief to economically disadvantaged persons in emergency circumstances.

“We are fortunate to live in a state that cares about the well-being of all of our residents, with this funding helping to ensure that families in our district can have a safe and comfortable winter,” said Assemblyman Taliaferro. “I am looking forward to seeing the many ways this funding will help those who need it the most.”

The Salem County Board of Social Services received a $3,941 grant from the LIHEAP CWA Administration program to administer the intake and eligibility determination of prospective beneficiaries of the LIHEAP program.

SWEENEY, TURNER BILL TO IMPROVE ONLINE ACCESS TO GOVERNMENT SERVICES APPROVED BY COMMITTEE

December 16, 2021

Trenton – The Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee today approved legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney and Senator Shirley Turner that would require the Office of Information Technology and agencies in the Executive Branch of State Government to update their digital platforms to improve access to services for public use.

The bill, S-2723, titled “21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act,” would require each executive branch agency to submit an information technology modernization improvement plan which includes increasing the use of data analytics, improving accessibility for those with disabilities and providing public-use mobile friendly agency websites.

“Our access to technology is advancing and increasingly transitioning towards mobile devices. As our technology progresses, it is important to ensure that all people can access the same information,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “Black, Brown and low-income communities are more likely to rely on smartphone devices because of a lack of broadband internet access, and we need to make sure that disabled communities have full access to government information as well. The goal of this bill is to make governmental agencies and important information accessible to all New Jerseyans at the touch of a finger.”

“Expanding accessibility for our State’s digital platforms will better serve the public and ensure that they are able to find the resources they need at the touch of a button,” said Senator Turner (D-Mercer/Hunterdon). “We want governmental agencies, their services and information to be easily obtainable for all residents, regardless of whether or not they 0wn a computer.”

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 12-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE PASSES BILL TO PROTECT MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN NEW JERSEY

December 16, 2021

Sweeney, Weinberg, Gopal Legislation Would Codify Rights of Same-Sex Couples

TRENTON – A Senate committee today approved legislation that would help preserve the rights of same-sex couples and LGBTQ families in New Jersey by putting into state statute protections for marriage equality established by court decisions.

Sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney, Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg and Senator Vin Gopal, the bill, S-3416, would codify into New Jersey law the right of same-sex couples to marry.

“This is about acting to ensure equal treatment and civil rights for all New Jerseyans, including same-sex couples,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “Marriage equality respects the rights of loving couples who deserve to be treated equally. The courts have ruled that same-sex marriages are a fundamental right, but we want to put it into statute to protect against any backtracking by the U. S. Supreme Court. ”

A state statute would bring New Jersey law in line with the 2013 State Supreme Court decision in Garden State Equality v. Dow as well as the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Obergefell et al. v. Hodges, which held that same-sex marriage is a fundamental right and that all states are required to allow same-sex couples to marry.

 “Devoted same-sex couples all across New Jersey are raising families as contributing members of their communities,” said Senator Weinberg (D-Bergen). “We fought to correct the injustice that denied these rights for too many loving couples for far too long. We don’t want to see those rights lost to an arch-conservative agenda of recent Supreme Court appointees.”

“Basic equal rights should not be denied to any class of citizen, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation,” said Senator Gopal (D-Monmouth). “The law must protect all civil rights and continue to honor the union between two people who love each other. We need to make these rights more secure by writing them into law.”

The head of Garden State Equality, a leading advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights, expressed his organization’s support for the legislative action.

“With a conservative leaning Supreme Court we cannot afford to sit by in hopes the Justices will leave Obergefell v. Hodges intact,” said Christian Fuscarino, Executive Director, Garden State Equality. “Our Legislature must act now to preserve this sacred right. On behalf of Garden State Equality, I would like to thank Senate President Sweeney for prioritizing this bill and HIV decriminalization during lame duck. We thank the committee for voting to codify marriage equality into law and ensure New Jersey not only continues to lead the nation on issues of equality, but safeguards them for decades to come.”

The bill was approved by the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee with a vote of  11-1.

SWEENEY, NJEA WELCOME HEALTH SAVINGS FOR EDUCATORS & TAXPAYERS FROM PREMIUM “HOLIDAY”

December 10, 2021

Last Year’s Landmark Health Reforms Help Produce Rate Reductions and Premium Break for Members of School Workers’ Health Benefits Program

Trenton – Senate President Steve Sweeney and Sean M. Spiller, President of the New Jersey Education Association, today praised the savings produced by the landmark reform plan developed by the Senate President and the NJEA following the announcement of a rate reduction and premium “holiday” that will save educators, school districts and taxpayers more than $100 million.

“These are real savings for educators and taxpayers across the state at a critical time,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “The reforms produced tangible savings as members face unprecedented challenges in their own lives as well as in their classrooms, and preserve quality health care as we all work our way out of the pandemic. This shows that premium health care services can be made more affordable at the same time savings are produced for school systems and taxpayers. This is a winning formula for everyone.”

“This premium holiday is proof that Chapter 44 is the win-win-win law that we promised when it passed 18 months ago and that working together to control costs benefits everyone,” said NJEA President Sean M. Spiller. “Our members will pay less, NJ school districts will pay less and taxpayers get the benefit of lower costs for everyone. And we did it all while preserving high-quality health insurance benefits. It is proof that when we all work together we can all win together.”

The rate reduction and one month break on premium contributions for teachers and other educators enrolled in the School Employees’ Health Benefits Plan will take effect in 2022, according to the Treasury Department.

The NJ Educators Health Plan was the product of a plan developed by Senate President Sweeney and Marie Blistan, then the President of the New Jersey Education Association. The legislation, S-2273/A-20, was sponsored by Speaker Craig Coughlin in the Assembly and signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy on July 1, 2020.

ADDIEGO - SWEENEY BILL TO PROTECT FRAMLAND, PREVENT WAREHOUSE SPRAWL ADVANCES

December 9, 2021

Trenton – In an effort to better protect farmland, the Senate Economic Growth Committee today approved legislation sponsored by Senator Dawn Addiego and Senate President Steve Sweeney that would exclude farmland as a redevelopment or rehabilitation area under the “Local Redevelopment and Housing Law.”

“As the Garden State, we are fortunate to have an abundance of farmland throughout New Jersey that can be used for agricultural and horticultural purposes,” said Senator Addiego (D-Burlington/Camden/Atlantic). “However, a loophole in our current law is allowing farmland to be ‘redeveloped’ into warehouses, straining our infrastructure and threatening the future of the farming sector. Alongside further efforts to prevent warehouse sprawl, we must protect the valuable green spaces we have throughout the state and ensure they are preserved as farmland as intended.”

The bill, S-4067, would amend the Local Redevelopment and Housing Law to specify that farmland is not a redevelopment area or an area in need of redevelopment under that law.

“In the last few years, we have taken great lengths to protect our state’s farmlands,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “By taking these steps to exclude farmland from being classified as a redevelopment area or rehabilitation area, we are ensuring the protection of these vital spaces and preventing further warehouse sprawl, which will help keep New Jersey green for decades to come.”

Specifically, the bill would revise the definitions of “redevelopment area” and “rehabilitation area” used in the existing law to specifically exclude any land actively devoted to agricultural or horticultural use that is valued, assessed, and taxed pursuant to the “Farmland Assessment Act of 1964,” except if the site is subject to remediation and cleanup of environmentally hazardous materials or contaminants in accordance with State or federal law.

“I want to thank Deputy Mayor Bob Tallon and Committeeman Daniel Golenda from Mansfield who brought this issue to our attention during our meeting on warehouse sprawl this summer,” added Senator Addiego.

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 5-0.

TRIO OF SWEENEY BILLS TO SUPPORT NEEDS OF DISABLED ADVANCE IN SENATE

December 9, 2021

Committees Approve Measures to Train Direct Care Workers, Establish Transitional Centers and Fund Workplace Accommodations

TRENTON – Three bills authored by Senate President Steve Sweeney that would aid the disabled were approved by committees in the Senate today. The measures would set up training programs at county colleges to train the direct care workers who care for the disabled, establish college-based transitional centers for adults with disabilities, and provide loans to businesses to make workplace accommodations to facilitate the needs of disabled employees.

“These bills will ensure that New Jersey continues to make real progress in improving the lives and livelihoods of those with developmental disabilities,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “They will help improve the skills of the direct care workers who are so important to the disabled, facilitate the transition of the disabled at a critical time in their lives, and make reasonable workplace accommodations so they can maintain life-affirming employment. This is about equal opportunities for the disabled so they can live full, rewarding lives as contributing members of society.”

The bill to train direct care workers, S-4102, would have the Secretary of Higher Education develop a training program that each county college would operate with grants from the state. Direct Support Professionals are critical caregivers who work closely with a person of any age who has an intellectual, developmental, mental, or physical disability, and whose work supports the client in making gains towards self-sufficiency and community integration. The measure, which includes $450,000 for its implementation, was approved by the Senate Higher Education Committee.

The bill establishing adult transition centers for individuals with developmental disabilities, S-4211, would allow the board of trustees of a county college to establish a county college-based adult center for transition for developmentally disabled individuals up to the age of 24. This would facilitate a more successful transition from secondary school to post-secondary education, adult employment, and independent living opportunities. The legislation, which would appropriate $4.5 million annually for its implementation, was approved by the Senate Higher Education Committee.

The bill to help facilitate the needs of the disabled in the workplace, S4210, would require the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to establish and administer a low-interest loan program for small to medium-sized businesses to make “reasonable” workplace accommodations for their employees with disabilities. For use by companies with up to 100 employees, the low-cost loans could be used to modify the application or hiring process, the way the job is performed, or the work environment that allows an employee with disabilities who is qualified for the job to perform the essential functions of that job and enjoy equal employment opportunities. The measure was approved by the Senate Economic Growth Committee.

SWEENEY, GREENSTEIN BILL TO DEVELOP STATEWIDE WATER INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT PLAN ADVANCES

December 9, 2021

Trenton – The Senate Environment and Energy Committee today released legislation that would direct the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop a statewide water infrastructure investment plan, which would serve as the State’s long-term capital investment strategy for upgrading its drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure.

The bill, S-4011, sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney and Senator Linda Greenstein, would establish various requirements for the plan, including an estimate of the State’s total water infrastructure funding needs, identification of long-term revenue sources, quantifiable goals for capital improvement that implement the State’s environmental priorities, and strategies to make water infrastructure more resilient to climate change. The plan would be updated at least once every five years.

“Fixing the State’s aging water infrastructure is necessary to ensure the continued health and prosperity of the State. However, New Jersey currently lacks a comprehensive system or report for understanding its water infrastructure investment needs,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “A water infrastructure investment plan will better inform policy makers on the extent of New Jersey’s water infrastructure funding needs and set a much-needed long-term strategy for maintaining and upgrading that infrastructure.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has estimated that New Jersey will require an investment of over $40 billion over the next 20 years to meet its drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure needs. While a large portion of this funding will be met through existing rates and State and federal funding, industry experts anticipate a large, unidentified funding gap. This legislation will give the State a clearer picture of its funding needs, and enable the State to develop a plan for the nearly $1 billion in new water infrastructure funds coming to New Jersey via the federal infrastructure bill.

“Much of the State’s water infrastructure has aged past its useful life and is breaking down due to decades of underinvestment,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “Lead service lines, combined sewer overflows, and emerging contaminants threaten the health, safety, and economic well-being of New Jersey residents. We need a comprehensive, long-term plan to address these issues and a strategy to coordinate the use of new federal infrastructure funds.”

The legislation, developed in collaboration with the Utility and Transportation Contractors Association (UTCA) and New Jersey Future, implements a recommendation from the Joint Legislative Task Force on Drinking Water Infrastructure, and builds off of recent legislative progress to improve the State’s water infrastructure, including the “Water Quality Accountability Act,” and legislation enacted earlier this year to require the replacement of lead service lines throughout the State.

“The Utility and Transportation Contractors Association of New Jersey commends Senate President Sweeney and Senator Greenstein for having the vision to sponsor this bill that, if signed into law, will ensure that NJ has a long-term fiscal plan to assist utilities and local governments overcome a wide array of water infrastructure challenges in a transparent and accountable manner,” said Bob Briant, CEO of the UTCA. “With increased federal funding flowing to the State, we find ourselves in a once in a generation opportunity to meaningfully upgrade and better maintain the State’s drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure. The time is now to get this right for the residents and rate payers of this state.”

“New Jersey can turn the corner on its water infrastructure challenges only if it has a clear understanding of the scope and scale of the problem, which this bill will ensure. New Jersey Future thanks Senate President Sweeney and Senator Greenstein for their foresight in calling for a long-term fiscal plan for drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure,” said Chris Sturm, Managing Director for Policy and Water at New Jersey Future. “This plan can underlay a state strategy for deploying resources across the state, and especially to the communities that need it most.”

Finally, the legislation would require the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank to prepare an annual Water Infrastructure Capital Program, which would provide details about current water infrastructure projects in the State, and publish that information on its website.

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 5-0.

SWEENEY BILL TO EXPAND ELIGIBILITY TO BECOME A CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT ADVANCES

December 6, 2021

Trenton – In an effort to expand the ranks of Certified Nursing Assistants, the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee today advanced legislation sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney that would establish a program to enable family members and others to train as CNAs and provide private duty nursing services to NJ FamilyCare or Medicaid enrollees under age 21.

“While we continue to recuperate from the losses felt early on during the COVID-19 pandemic, nursing homes nationwide are still struggling to bolster an overstretched direct-care workforce that helps more than one million facility residents nationwide,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “Our nursing home population is one of the state’s most vulnerable, and it is imperative that we do everything we can to ensure they are receiving the attention and care they deserve. By establishing this program, we will be able to expand who can become a CNA, fill staffing gaps and care for everyone in the way they deserve to be cared for.”

The bill, S-3847 would require the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS) to establish a program to allow a family member of an enrollee in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare, or a third-party individual approved by the enrollee’s parent or guardian, to become qualified as a CNA. They would be able to provide CNA services to the enrollee through a private duty nursing agency, under the direction of a registered nurse. Specifically, an individual who becomes a CNA under the program would be reimbursed at a rate of at least $30 per hour.

Under the bill, the program would only apply to enrollees who are under 21 years of age and qualify for private duty nursing services under Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare. The DMAHS would be required to develop an assessment tool that would readily identify enrollees who meet the criteria for eligibility.

In order to become a certified CNA, family members or approved third-party individuals would be required to complete all of the training, testing, and other qualification criteria that are required under state and federal law for certification as a CNA.  

SENATE LABOR COMMITTEE PASSES THREE APPRENTICESHIP BILLS

December 6, 2021

Trenton – The Senate Labor Committee today approved three bills that would strengthen current apprenticeship programs and allow for the creation of a new job training program for apprentice workers.  

The first bill, S-4207, sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney, would increase the registration fees assessed under the Public Works Contractor Registration Act, strengthen the provisions of that law regarding the enforcement of the program requirements and require certification with federal requirements of compliance for apprenticeship programs.

“It is imperative that we ensure our apprenticeship programs are properly following requirements,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “We have recently seen an uptick of programs that are not complying with regulation—and that is unacceptable. By having the Department of Labor ensure that the programs meet all requirements, we will be able to make sure that all public works apprenticeship programs are operating appropriately under the established requirements.”

Under the bill, the apprenticeship program registration fees will rise to $500 for the initial and second annual registration, and after two years the fee would be raised to $750. Additionally, contractors registering their apprenticeship program within the Department of Labor would be required to provide a certification form, provided by the commissioner, which would establish that the program the contractor is participating in meets all of the requirements of the Public Works Contractor Registration Act and the federal requirements for registered apprenticeships.

The second bill, S-1573, sponsored by Senator James Beach, would establish the “New Jersey Works Act.” The bill would permit businesses to create pre-employment training programs in partnership with nonprofit organizations or educational institutions.

“Investments from this bill would be a huge asset for low- to moderate-income families that may not be able to pay for relevant workforce training programs,” said Senator Beach (Camden/Burlington). “We have seen success in other states that have implemented financial incentives to improve job training programs, and it is time for New Jersey to join that list. By implementing this program, we can create equal employment opportunities for all workers.”

Under the bill, institutions of higher education, comprehensive high schools, county vocational schools or nonprofit organizations would be able to partner with a business to establish a pre-employment and work readiness training program. The purpose of the program would be to recruit, prepare, and educate individuals for entry-level jobs with long-term career potential through paid training programs. 

Additionally, businesses would be able to receive a credit against their corporation business tax or gross income tax in order to fully cover any financial assistance provided to support a qualified pre-employment and work readiness training program that is approved by the State Employment and Training Commission. A maximum of $12 million in tax credits per State fiscal year would be granted to eligible businesses.

The third bill, S-3585, sponsored by Senator Linda Greenstein, would allow participating partners in a school-to-apprenticeship linkage program to make agreements allowing secondary classroom experience to count as credit towards the classroom training portion of the program.

“School-to-apprenticeship linkage programs combine work-based, on-the-job learning with relevant technical education in the classroom, allowing participants in these programs to develop innovative and creative ideas,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Middlesex/Mercer). “By expanding the requirements of classroom training, we can help those participating in these programs develop exceptional skills as they are able to increase their involvement within fields they find appealing. This bill is critical to help our future workers become well-rounded in the field they enjoy without needing the conventional classroom training that may not work for everyone.”

Under the bill, partners participating in the agreement would be required to consult and gain approval from the United States Department of Labor before making agreements to authorize secondary classroom experience as credit towards the apprenticeship program.