“We cannot have a stronger and fairer New Jersey without examining the causes of our wealth gaps and without establishing strategies to combat this long-standing problem. I look forward to working with the Wealth Disparity Task Force and continuing our Administration’s efforts to create an economy that works for every New Jerseyan.” – Governor Phil Murphy. Press Release September 14, 2021.

Fulfilling a key commitment from his 2020 State of the State address, Governor Murphy established the Wealth Disparity Task Force to examine the causes of and remedies for the long-standing wealth disparities that affect Black and Hispanic or Latino New Jerseyans. Executive Order 262.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which delayed the formation of the Wealth Disparity Task Force, shed light on long-standing inequities that have plagued our state. Historically underserved communities, particularly communities of color, were among the hardest hit by the health and economic toll of the pandemic. Rebuilding toward a stronger New Jersey includes targeted investments aimed at addressing the underlying inequities which were exacerbated by the pandemic.

To develop actionable solutions in the areas of health, housing, education, criminal justice, and the economy, the Wealth Disparity Task Force aims to ensure that all New Jerseyans are leaving behind more than memories to the next generation.

The Wealth Disparity Task Force is co-chaired by Lieutenant Governor and Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs, Sheila Y. Oliver, Department of Banking and Insurance Commissioner Marlene Caride, Rutgers University President Dr. Jonathan Holloway, and Retired Council of New Jersey Grantmakers President and CEO Maria Vizcarrondo.

Members of the task force include: