Landmark voting rights legislation—known as the John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act—was signed into law late today. The legislation was sponsored by Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson.
Bill A1715 will strengthen voting rights protections in New Jersey by expanding access to the ballot, increasing protections against voter suppression and discrimination, improving language accessibility, and creating stronger oversight of election practices.

“I’m proud that New Jersey has once again delivered a responsible budget for the hardworking families we serve, with meaningful property tax relief and the preservation of the Stay NJ program.

“At a time when dangerous, shortsighted federal cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and Affordable Care Act subsidies are shifting billions of dollars in costs onto states and pulling critical support away from families, New Jersey has stepped up to protect the services our residents rely on.”

The General Assembly on Tuesday passed a three-bill package sponsored by Assemblywoman Andrea Katz that addresses the growing youth mental health crisis and strengthens protections for minors online.

“Social media has become a central part of daily life for young people, but we are learning more and more about the risks that can come with excessive use, addictive platform features, and the collection of minors’ personal data,” said Assemblywoman Katz (D-Atlantic, Burlington). “As a mom of three teenagers, I know social media isn’t going anywhere. Our responsibility is to make sure the digital world is safer for kids. This package takes a thoughtful, comprehensive approach by strengthening privacy protections, investing in research, and giving policymakers the information they need to better protect children while helping families and educators support healthier online habits.”