Public Policy

When women vote, we win.

What’s at stake in New Jersey this November

This November 4, New Jersey will elect a Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and all 80 members of the State Assembly.

The political environment has shifted dramatically. What many call the “culture wars” are now playing out in state legislatures across the country. With recent Supreme Court decisions, states are taking on issues once decided at the federal level.

From our paychecks to paid leave, reproductive health care to education—so much is at stake every time women head to the polls. State policymakers are making decisions that directly impact our lives and families, yet too often, these conversations are happening without women’s voices at the table.

As campaign season heats up, it is more important than ever that we identify the leaders who will truly represent our values—and stand against those who seek to roll back our hard-won rights.

AAUW NJ’s 2025 Voter Guide provides nonpartisan information about policy concerns that are critical to women and their families.

NJ Legislative Update

Act Locally: Few votes are needed to sway a legislative election. Learn who’s representing you in Trenton and contact them directly. Find your legislator, legislative schedules, search bills (by number, subject, sponsor, or even keyword), and more at the New Jersey Legislature website.

Bills we are watching

A4752/S1005
Prohibits gender-based price discrimination.

S2219
Requires institutions of higher education to adopt affirmative consent standard and other policies regarding sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

S2233
Requires institution of higher education to provide victim-centered training to employees who assist student victims of sexual assault.

Past successes

S1221
Establishes program in DOE to reimburse school districts for providing menstrual products in certain public schools and requires State to pay costs.*
Signed into law on 8/23/2023

A3446
“Freedom to Read Act”; establishes requirements for library material in public school libraries and public libraries; protects school library staff members and librarians.
Signed into law on 12/9/2024

A3092
Requires State agencies update demographic data collection methods on Asian, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian and Indian Diaspora residents of this State.
Signed into law on 1/12/2024