First committee meetings of the new session center on lowering costs for New Jersey residents
(TRENTON) — In their first opportunity to consider legislation in the new legislative session, Assembly Democrats are making good on their promises by today advancing a series of bills through committees aimed at lowering costs for everyday New Jerseyans. From insurance reforms to rein in health care costs to addressing rising utility bills and increasing the state’s housing supply to lower costs, the bills reflect a comprehensive effort to ease financial pressure and make New Jersey more affordable.
“For too many families, affordability is not a single issue but an ongoing daily challenge that touches every household decision,” said Speaker Craig J. Coughlin (D-Middlesex). “As we begin the 222nd Legislative Session, our focus remains squarely on lowering costs where we can, and making it easier for New Jerseyans to afford medical care, keep the lights on, and find a place to call home. Today’s committee meetings reflect that commitment, setting the tone for a session centered on the working families across our state.”
Today, the Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee advanced three bills—which were reintroduced for the new legislative session—that would aid in keeping New Jersey residents safe as ICE continues to terrorize communities, commit violent acts, and prey on immigrant communities. The measures aim to strike a balance between individual privacy, due process rights, and public safety by defining the role state, county and local agencies play in relation to federal immigration authorities, limiting data collection by government and health entities, and ensuring law enforcement officers are easily identifiable. With these bills advanced today, along with the sensitive places bill recently signed into law, New Jersey is taking the lead among other states in crafting the strongest protections for immigrants. “Law enforcement should always be, first and foremost, partners in community safety, providing support to those who need it,” said Assemblyman Joe Danielsen (D-Middlesex, Somerset), Chair of the Public Safety and Preparedness Committee. “Today’s discussion was pivotal to ensuring that communities feel confident law enforcement is operating with transparency and accountability. With that trust in place, New Jerseyans can send their children to school, visit a food bank, or attend a place of worship with peace of mind.” A4071 would codify the Attorney General’s “Strengthening Trust Between Law Enforcement and Immigrant Communities” directive, also known as the Immigrant Trust Directive, which has been upheld by state and federal courts. The directive, sponsored by Assembly members Ellen Park, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, Gabriel Rodriguez and Annette Quijano, would prohibit state, county and municipal law enforcement agencies from stopping, questioning, arresting, searching or detaining anyone based solely on actual or suspected citizenship or immigration status. It would also prevent these agencies from inquiring about the immigration status of any individual unless it is relevant to the investigation of an indictable offense committed by said individual. The bill also outlines the distinction between state and local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, making it clear that New Jersey officers are not responsible for enforcing federal civil immigration law, but instead should remain focused on public safety and state criminal enforcement. “Our state and local law enforcement officers are vital to keeping New Jersey communities safe, working closely with our schools, business and residents. But amid a seemingly indiscriminate immigration crackdown, we have seen individuals without U.S. criminal convictions—and in some cases, people with protected legal status or even U.S. citizenship—being wrongly caught up in enforcement action,” saidAssemblywoman Park (D-Bergen). “By prohibiting racially-influenced policing by state and local officers, and affirming the distinction between them and federal immigration authorities, we help preserve the trust officers need to serve their communities, making sure everyone—regardless of where they were born or the language they speak—feels comfortable seeking help when they need it.” Bill A4070, sponsored by Assemblywomen Quijano and Park and Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald, would establish limits on how and when state and local governments and health care facilities collect and retain personal information. Known as the “Privacy Protection Act,” the bill recognizes that unrestricted sharing of sensitive data can discourage people from seeking needed services. The legislation would limit the collection of information such as citizenship status, place of birth, Social Security number, or taxpayer ID to situations where it is necessary to determine eligibility for or to administer a public service, benefit, or program, or professional qualifications and licensure. The bill also places restrictions on when the Motor Vehicle Commission would be permitted to share personal data on drivers. “When you give the government your personal information, you do so with the understanding that it will be used only for the specific purpose you authorized. You do not consent to it being publicly shared or sold to the highest bidder. If that trust is violated, you have a right to know,” said Assemblywoman Quijano (D-Union).“This bill goes beyond reaffirming your right to data privacy. It makes clear that we stand by our Constitution and that individual privacy and due process rights will not be undermined or ignored.” The committee also advanced today a bill establishing the “Law Enforcement Officer Protection Act.” Sponsored by Assembly members Reynolds-Jackson, Quijano, Alixon Collazos-Gill and Rodriguez, A1743 would require law enforcement officers—including federal officers—operating in New Jersey to reveal their facial identities while performing official duties. It would also require them to present sufficient identification prior to arresting or detaining someone. To ensure the safety of law enforcement, exemptions would be made in some situations, including if the officer is engaged in certain tactical operations or is the subject of a threat of retaliation. Masks would also be allowed to protect against exposure to biological or chemical agents, or exposure to cold during a weather emergency. “We all have rights—citizens and noncitizens alike— and when a law enforcement agent stops you, you have the right to know who they are, who they work for, and why they are stopping you, all before you’re detained or arrested. There have been verified accounts of criminals impersonating ICE to rob, kidnap, or sexually assault people. We can stop this before it becomes a pattern,” said Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson (Hunterdon, Mercer). “This bill is about public safety, and previous Republican proposals indicate bipartisan support. Legislation like this helps build community trust in law enforcement while ensuring officers can perform their duties safely and within the bounds of the law.”
UNITE HERE Local 54, the hospitality workers’ union representing over 13,000 workers across New Jersey, Delaware and Eastern PA today announced its endorsement of Tim Alexander in the Democratic primary for Congress in New Jersey’s 2nd Congressional District.
Local 54 members work every day in casinos, hotels, and food service —the backbone of South Jersey’s economy. The union cited Alexander’s commitment to working families, good union jobs, affordable healthcare, and protecting the right of workers to organize as key reasons for its support.
“Tim Alexander has been a union member, PBA #77, for over 4 decades and understands that when workers do better, our entire community does better,” said Donna DeCaprio, President of UNITE HERE Local 54. “He has consistently stood with working people, listened to our members, and fought for fair wages, safe workplaces, and dignity on the job. We are proud to endorse Tim Alexander because he will be a strong voice for South Jersey’s working families in Congress.”
Congressman Van Drew, along with Congresswoman Laura Gillen (D-NY), introduced H.R. 7459, the Coastal Trust Fund Act, which would create a reliable, long-term funding source for coastal protection projects nationwide.
“My bipartisan Coastal Trust Fund Act sets up a permanent and reliable funding stream for coastal storm risk management projects like beach nourishment,” said Congressman Van Drew. “This is a big deal, not just for New Jersey, but for the whole country. The American coastal economy contributes to 46% of national GDP, but too often the government does not deliver coastal protection until after a disaster strikes. This legislation changes the status quo by investing $1 billion a year into the Army Corps of Engineers’ coastal storm management projects. By funding the Coastal Trust Fund with existing offshore energy lease revenues, we earned a budget-neutral score from the Congressional Budget Office, meaning no new taxes or fees on anybody. This bill was developed through months of collaboration with the top coastal experts in the country, and it is one of the most serious efforts in history to protect the coastlines of the United States. Thank you to my colleague Representative Gillen and the entire coastal community for supporting this effort.”
Assemblywoman Andrea Katz introduced and sponsored a three-bill legislative package aimed at addressing the growing youth mental health crisis by strengthening online protections for children and increasing accountability for social media platforms.
“As a mom of three teenagers, I see firsthand how central social media is to young people’s lives. It plays a role in all of our lives, and it’s not going anywhere, but we also know the consequences of spending too much time online. Families are seeing the impacts, from increased anxiety, depression, and eating disorders to disrupted sleep and harmful content reaching kids far too easily,” said Assemblywoman Katz (D-Atlantic, Burlington). “At a time when social media providers are focused on maximizing engagement, we need to prioritize the mental health of New Jersey’s youths. This package is about making online spaces safer for minors in an ever-changing digital landscape. It’s about warning users about real mental health risks and providing families and educators with the knowledge and information they need to keep minors safe when they’re online.”
Assemblywoman Annette Quijano strongly condemned the Trump administration’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants, calling the move “dangerous, discriminatory, and deeply harmful to immigrant families and communities across New Jersey.”
TPS was established to protect individuals from deportation when their home countries face extraordinary conditions such as armed conflict or natural disaster. Haiti continues to experience extreme political instability, widespread violence, and humanitarian crises that make safe return impossible for many.
“Ending TPS for Haitians ignores reality and puts lives at risk,” said Assemblywoman Quijano. “This decision tears apart families and destabilizes communities for no reason other than political expediency. Haitian immigrants have done everything we’ve asked of them — they work, they pay taxes, they raise families, and they contribute to our state’s economy.”
New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Acting Commissioner Priya Jain today announced the appointment of Juan Carlos Nordelo as Chief of Staff, bringing extensive experience in public service, legislative leadership, nonprofit advocacy, and community engagement to the Department’s executive team.
“Juan Carlos brings a rare combination of policy expertise, operational perspective, and lived experience working directly with communities across New Jersey,” Acting Commissioner Jain said. “His ability to navigate complex issues, build partnerships across all levels of government, and focus on practical solutions will be a tremendous asset as NJDOT advances its mission to deliver safe, reliable, and resilient transportation systems for the people of New Jersey.”
As Chief of Staff, Nordelo will support the Acting Commissioner in advancing NJDOT’s strategic priorities, strengthening coordination across divisions and partner agencies, and ensuring the Department’s policy, operational, and community-focused efforts remain aligned and responsive to the needs of New Jersey residents.
“It is an honor to join NJDOT and support the critical work being done every day to keep New Jersey moving,” Nordelo said. “Throughout my career, I have focused on bringing people together, understanding the real challenges communities face, and turning those challenges into actionable solutions. I look forward to working with the talented professionals across this Department to continue advancing safety, resiliency, and quality of life for our residents.”
Most recently, Nordelo served as Chief of Staff and Policy Director to Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez (19th District), where he led legislative strategy, managed the Assemblywoman’s policy portfolio, and developed legislation addressing affordability, safety, infrastructure, and quality of life for New Jersey families.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Rutgers University. He also holds a Master of Public Administration from Baruch College’s School of Public Affairs.
Juan Carlos lives in Cranford with his wife, Maria Luisa, and their young son, Sebastian.
President Donald Trump and Secretary Krisit Noem are turning the Department of Homeland Security into a political weapon, using ICE to instill fear in our neighborhoods instead of keeping people safe. This is not who we are as a nation, and it has to stop.
I introduced a bill in Congress to require all public facing immigration enforcement officials to wear body cameras, just as police officers in New Jersey are already required to do. Do you think that ICE agents should wear body cameras? Let me know below:
I will keep pushing until my bill gets over the finish line and body cameras are required by law. Without enforceable rules, real oversight, and accountability, DHS and ICE will keep operating without consequences.
Meeting kicked off a yearlong celebration of America’s 250th anniversary
Members of the New Jersey General Assembly held a ceremonial meeting today at historic Nassau Hall at Princeton University to begin a yearlong celebration of the country’s Semiquincentennial. The year 2026 also marks 250 years since the first New Jersey Legislature met in Nassau Hall in August of 1776, in the midst of the Revolutionary War and less than two months after New Jersey adopted its first constitution, declaring its independence from Great Britain. “Holding a commemorative meeting at Nassau Hall on the campus of Princeton University is truly an honor. These walls have borne witness to moments that shaped not just New Jersey, but our entire nation, and it was here that our state’s Legislature first met in 1776, at the dawn of a new and uncertain democracy,” said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “This year, as we mark the 250th anniversary of our nation and our Legislature, we’re reminded that history is not distant or abstract. It is alive in the institutions we serve and the responsibilities we carry forward.” “Princeton University is delighted to commemorate this milestone anniversary in our historic Nassau Hall, where the New Jersey legislature first assembled nearly 250 years ago,” Princeton University President Christopher L. Eisgruber said. “The history of this great University and the great state of New Jersey are forever linked, and we look forward to continuing to work together to build a strong future.” Princeton President Eisgruber delivered a welcome message and was among the many dignitaries to attend today’s meeting. Lt. Governor Dale Caldwell, UK Consulate General Oliver Christian and Adjutant General, Brigadier General Yvonne Mays were also in attendance. During today’s meeting, the General Assembly presented several ceremonial resolutions. These included, but were not limited to, honoring the New Jersey National Guard and the unsung efforts of New Jerseyans during the American Revolution, commemorating consequential pieces of legislation enacted between 1776 and 1826, and celebrating the 280th anniversary of the founding of Princeton University. Several Assembly Democrats presented resolutions during the meeting. Those members included Assemblymen Roy Freiman, William F. Moen, Jr.,Anthony S. Verrelli and Joe Danielsen, and Assemblywomen Melinda Kane, Mitchelle Drulis,Lisa Swain, and Verlina Reynolds-Jackson. Assembly Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald led the Pledge of Allegiance. A full list of ceremonial resolutions presented during today’s meeting can be found in the New Jersey Assembly Democrats’ latest newsletter here. Photos and videos provided by Princeton University can be found here.
Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese (D-Bergen, Passaic), Chair of the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee, issued the following statement today on the Trump Administration withholding funding for the Gateway Tunnel Project.
“Withholding funding for the Gateway Tunnel Project threatens the transportation backbone of the Northeast Corridor and the economic stability of the United States. This short-sighted decision by the Trump Administration risks critical rail service, thousands of infrastructure jobs, and the mobility of millions.
“The Hudson River tunnels are part of the busiest passenger rail corridor in the country, connecting Washington, D.C. to Boston and serving hundreds of thousands of daily riders. These tunnels carry both NJ Transit commuters and riders on Amtrak, our national passenger rail service. Disruptions here ripple across the entire system, impacting regional economies and national travel.
“More than 110 years old, the tunnels have faced persistent issues, especially following severe damage from Hurricane Sandy in 2012 whereby saltwater intrusion accelerated their deterioration, contributing to mounting delays, infrastructure failures, and safety risks.
“The Gateway Tunnel Project is not a partisan proposal. It is an essential national infrastructure investment that would expand capacity, improve reliability, and safeguard long-term transit operations along a corridor that accounts for over 20% of the nation’s GDP.
“With construction already underway, halting federal funds could stop progress immediately, disrupting contracts, displacing workers, and increasing long-term costs for taxpayers.
“I support the legal actions brought by the Gateway Development Commission, the State of New Jersey and the State of New York to enforce these federal commitments and keep this project on track.
“In December, I had the opportunity to tour the Gateway Tunnel Project construction sites on both sides of the Hudson River and witness the extraordinary work of the project’s engineers, laborers, and skilled tradespeople. The progress, precision, and importance of this project were evident.
“As Chair of the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee, I will continue to advocate for smart infrastructure investments that protect jobs, grow our economy, and deliver safe, modern transit to those who rely on it every day.
“Transportation should never be a political pawn. The safety, prosperity, and mobility of our region and nation depend on finishing the Gateway Tunnel Project.”
