January 13, 2022
NEWARK – Governor Murphy on Monday signed into law – and the Legislature passed – several important bills that will promote racial justice, help New Jersey’s young people and expand democracy in the Garden State.
“During a time when we are seeing unrelenting assaults on racial justice and equity in America, we are encouraged that we are making progress in New Jersey in some important areas,” said Andrea McChristian, Law & Policy Director at the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice. “This movement forward would not happen but for the hard work of advocates across the state showing up when it matters.”
The governor signed into law a bill (S3319/A5507) eliminating oppressive fines and fees for young people caught up in the criminal justice system. Some of these fines and fees were eliminated two years ago; this bill finishes the job by abolishing outstanding fines and fees. A recent report by the Institute’s Camden Youth Council called out the damaging impact of these fines and fees.