Office of the Governor | This Week In New Jersey: April 28th, 2023

This Week In New Jersey: April 28th, 2023

04/28/2023

Governor Murphy Signs Pro-worker Unemployment Insurance Benefits Bill

Governor Murphy this week signed A4772/S3215, which concerns unemployment insurance (UI) benefits for workers during labor disputes. This bill addresses certain loopholes that currently prevent workers participating in labor disputes, such as strikes, from receiving access to UI benefits.

“Unemployment insurance benefits should be a universal right for individuals who have recently lost their jobs, are unable to find work, or are currently in the middle of a labor dispute,” said Governor Murphy. ”These benefits are crucial to allow individuals going through this process the support they need to continue to take care of themselves and their families during difficult times. This Administration will continue to stand up for the rights of workers who are the backbone of our state’s economy.”

The bill amends existing law to:

Permit UI benefits to be distributed to workers during an employer lockout even if a strike did not immediately precede the lockout;
decrease the timeframe from 30 days to 14 days following a strike that UI benefits are disqualified, while allowing for benefits to be paid immediately regardless of the timeframe if replacement workers are hired on either a permanent or temporary basis; and
clarify that there is no disqualification if an issue in the labor dispute is the failure of the employer to comply with an agreement between the parties.

This bill takes effect immediately and will apply to all UI benefit claims filed on or after January 1, 2022.

Law Enforcement Agencies in All 21 Counties to Receive Grants to Fund Automated License Plate Reader Technology Thanks to Murphy Administration's $10 Million Investment to Combat Auto Theft

Advancing efforts that led to a 16% drop in the number of vehicles stolen in New Jersey between September 2022 and March 2023, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced that 34 law enforcement agencies in 21 counties and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) will receive grant funding to acquire or expand technology to combat auto theft thanks to $10 million in funding made available by the Murphy Administration.

“Residents across New Jersey deserve to feel safe in their communities. As we continue to address the ongoing wave of auto theft in our state, it is important that we equip our law enforcement agencies with the necessary tools they need to identify and catch these bad actors,” said Governor Murphy. “We appreciate our congressional delegation’s continued support in our efforts to combat crime here in New Jersey. We have witnessed the success that new technology, including the Automated License Plate Readers, has played in this process and we are committed to further investing in this cause until the number of auto thefts in our state hit zero.”

“Reducing auto thefts across New Jersey is a top priority, and thanks to the leadership and support of Governor Murphy and our congressional delegation, we are investing millions of dollars to provide law enforcement officers in all 21 counties with the tools they need to protect residents, make communities safer, and save lives,” said Attorney General Platkin. “We know that car thefts on their own are bad enough, but they are also used to commit other, violent crimes. By equipping law enforcement with sophisticated Automated License Plate Reader technology, we are sending a clear message of deterrence against committing auto thefts.”

Governor Murphy Announces Governor's Fellows Program

Building upon efforts to expand opportunity and lessen barriers to public employment, Governor Phil Murphy announced the re-launch of the Governor’s Fellows Program, a State employment program designed to attract and retain a diverse pool of qualified individuals interested in pursuing a career in public service. The newly revised program will offer an opportunity for recent graduates and emerging professionals to be hired into key policy and programmatic areas that support the goals of the State. The launch of the new program will play a critical role in broadening the unique perspectives and diversity represented in New Jersey’s state workforce.

“The Governor’s Fellows Program will expand our great workforce and offer New Jersey’s future leaders an opportunity to begin their careers in public service,” said Governor Murphy. “This comprehensive, well-rounded, and innovative program will allow passionate people to make a difference in state government, specifically in roles that are tailored to their interests, skills, and experience. As we continue to build and support the workforce of the Next New Jersey, it is my honor to announce this program which will open the rewarding and enriching opportunity of public service to emerging professionals.”

“The New Jersey Civil Service Commission remains committed to attracting and retaining diverse talent in our civil service workforce,” said Allison Chris Myers, New Jersey Civil Service Commission Acting Chair & Chief Executive Officer. “The New Jersey Governor’s Fellows Program is an excellent way for individuals with a combination of education and experience, young professionals, or recent college graduates to enter state positions. This program is a great opportunity for people to learn the ins and outs of New Jersey state government and explore all that a career in public service has to offer. I encourage all who are eligible and interested in this program to apply, as they will gain a wealth of invaluable experience and knowledge in a field of their interest, as well as direct access to mentorship and networking opportunities from the Governor’s Office.”

Governor Murphy and the New Jersey-Israel Commission Announce Another Year of Increased Economic Relations With Israel From 2021 to 2022

Governor Phil Murphy and the New Jersey–Israel Commission are proud to announce another year of strong and increased economic growth between New Jersey and the State of Israel. Newly released data from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) shows record investments and job creation under the Murphy Administration between 2021 and 2022. Ahead of Israel’s 75th anniversary and 75 years of United States-Israel relations, the figures demonstrate how New Jersey is successfully leveraging its relationship with Israel to pair its innovation economy with its well-established national leadership attracting Israeli investment.

“As our state’s economy continues to grow, I am glad that we are doing so with our partners in Israel,” said Governor Murphy. “New Jersey is home to many great companies, and we cherish their unique contributions and investments to each of our communities. We look forward to continuing this relationship with our counterparts in Israel and will continue to do what we can to support their expanding business in our state.”

“I am proud to see another strong year of trade growth between New Jersey and Israel,” said New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way. “I applaud the New Jersey-Israel Commission for its work in supporting and strengthening this key relationship and encouraging shared economic opportunities.”

Recognizing Infant Immunization Week, NJ Health Department Raises Awareness About Importance of Childhood Vaccination

In recognition of National Infant Immunization Week, April 24-30, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is reminding parents of the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases by making sure they are up to date on all vaccinations. In addition to other ongoing efforts to raise awareness and share information with residents about vaccines, NJDOH will be hosting a Facebook Live at 6:30 p.m. on May 3 for parents and caregivers of children to discuss and answer questions about COVID-19 vaccines.

Giving babies and infants the recommended vaccinations by age two years is the best way to protect them from 14 serious childhood diseases, including whooping cough (pertussis) and measles.

“Vaccines are safe and effective, and can help protect children from numerous life-threatening diseases, like measles and COVID-19,” said Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli. “Keeping your children up to date on all of their vaccinations will ensure they stay protected. I encourage parents to discuss the vaccine status of their children with their health care providers and catch up on any doses missed during the COVID-19 pandemic.”