Given the dynamic and highly nuanced nature of the legislative process (e.g., a bill can be materially changed on its journey to becoming law), it can be difficult to succinctly categorize Autism New Jersey’s perspective on pending legislation.
Below is a brief list of pending legislation that Autism New Jersey is monitoring for its impact on the I/DD community and the professionals who serve them. This is not an exhaustive list.
If you have questions about these bills or recently enacted laws that we are tracking, please contact publicpolicy@autismnj.org.
2024-2025 Legislative Session
Strongly Support
A3893/S2332 – Allows complaint for guardianship of minor to be filed six months before minor reaches age 18 under certain circumstances; establishes certain standards for filing guardianship complaints.
Support Intent and Monitoring Language
A4411/S1207 – Requires members of Sexual Assault Response Team to receive training on interacting with victims with developmental disabilities.
A4934/S3843 – Requires continuation of health benefits dependent coverage for certain children with disabilities who are 26 years of age or older.
A4949/S3753 – Requires DHS and DCF to employ Director of Medical Services; appropriates $480,000.
A4950/S3756 – Mandates Division of Developmental Disabilities service providers to complete workforce survey.
A5142/S3858 – Requires school bus personnel members to call 911 emergency line in potential life-threatening emergencies; requires certain school buses transporting students with disabilities to be equipped with certain safety features; makes appropriation.
A5634/S3750 – Enhances enforcement authority over developmental disability service providers; establishes “Residential Facility Quality of Care Improvement Fund” in DHS.
A5635/S3755 – Establishes framework for appointment of receiver for provider of services to individuals with developmental disabilities.
A5638/S3754 – Establishes “Disability Mortality and Abuse Prevention Advisory Committee” in DHS; makes appropriation.
AJR220/SJR164 – Designates March 17 of each year as “Profound Autism Day.”
Key Committees
Legislation that affects the autism community is typically first heard in the following committees. Legislation must be voted “out of committee” prior to a vote by the full Senate and General Assembly. The Governor’s signature is then the final step to pass the legislation and enact it into law.
Key Assembly Committees
- Aging and Human Services
- Appropriations
- Budget
- Children, Families and Food Security
- Consumer Affairs
- Education
- Financial Institutions and Insurance
- Health
- Housing
- Labor
- Public Safety and Preparedness
- Regulated Professions
