Public Policy

When women vote, we win.

The current political environment has shifted focus to the state legislative arena all around the country. With recent Supreme Court decisions, states are taking on issues that were once considered under federal purview. Policy makers in our state government are now routinely making decisions about issues that directly affect us and our families. And often, those conversations lack women’s voices.

New Jersey will elect 120 state legislators (80 Assembly seats and 40 Senate seats) this November. It is of utmost importance that we identify those who will best represent our values and those who seek to roll back our hard-won rights. AAUW NJ’s 2023 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

S1221
Establishes program in DOE to reimburse school districts for providing menstrual products in certain public schools and requires State to pay costs.*
On August 23, 2023, Governor Murphy signed this bill into law!

S3893/A5499

Prohibits book banning in public libraries and schools; authorizes withholding of State Aid for non-compliance.

S3907/A5734
Prohibits public libraries and public schools from banning or restricting access to certain books; permits withholding of State Aid for non-compliance.

S2415/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.