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Governor Phil Murphy

This Week in NJ - November 4, 2022

11/4/2022

Statement from Governor Murphy on Mitigation of Threat to Jewish Synagogues

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"I am grateful to the FBI, as well as state law enforcement partners including the Attorney General’s Office, the State Police, and the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, for their tireless efforts in mitigating the immediate threat to our Jewish synagogues. While this specific threat may be mitigated, we know this remains a tense time for our Jewish communities who are facing a wave of anti-Semitic activity. We will not be indifferent. We will remain vigilant. We will take any and every threat with the utmost seriousness and we will stand up and stand shoulder to shoulder with our Jewish congregations. 

“This threat violated one of the most fundamental tenets of our nation – the right to worship according to the dictates of our consciences and our sacred and holy traditions. We will always endeavor to ensure that every New Jerseyan of every faith may continue to live, study, and worship without fear for their safety.”

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Governor Murphy Signs Legislation Expanding Access to STEM Education

overnor Phil Murphy this week signed legislation (S2563) amending the New Jersey Department of Education grant program for STEM teachers established by the Governor in 2019. Signed amid a nationwide teacher shortage, the law will incentivize public school STEM teachers to participate in the program and ensure that nonpublic school students have access to STEM education.

The legislation expands the number of educators who are eligible to provide STEM instruction at nonpublic schools in addition to their public school duties. The law also broadens the hours at which public school teachers can teach at nonpublic schools, in addition to increasing teacher compensation for participating in the program.

“As we continue to support our students through the most formidable challenges of the 21st century, it is imperative that we continue to ensure that all students have access to a world-class STEM education,” said Governor Murphy. “Since the beginning of my Administration, I have remained unwavering in my commitment not just to New Jersey children, but to the teachers responsible for our students’ instruction, safety, and wellbeing. The expansion of the program I signed into law three years ago will provide current and prospective public school educators with greater flexibility and compensation to provide STEM education to nonpublic school students.”

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Governor Murphy Signs Legislation to Increase Unemployment Insurance System’s Efficiency and Expedite Benefits Payments

Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (S2357) which makes certain changes to the administration of the State’s unemployment insurance (“UI”) system to increase the system’s efficiency and expedite timely benefits payments. The Legislature concurred with the Governor’s conditional veto of an earlier version of the legislation, as the Governor had recommended changes necessary to ensure compliance with federal law.

“As we work to enhance the UI system, we must ensure that the process is timely and transparent from start to finish,” said Governor Murphy. “The revisions sent back to the Legislature ensure compliance with federal law and I commend the bill’s sponsors for their dedication to improving our State’s UI system. Every eligible recipient of unemployment benefits deserves to receive assistance as expeditiously and efficiently as possible.”

"We distributed $37 billion to more than 2 million workers during the pandemic, but we never want to see even one resident struggle to pay their bills or find a new job," said Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo. "That's why we are so proud to be partnering with the US Department of Labor to develop a new, modern, agile unemployment system that is accessible, equitable and designed to shorten the time it takes for eligible workers to receive benefits. We are grateful to our legislative partners for continuing to advocate for their constituents and our claimants, and for giving us more tools to speed the review process for benefits."

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Secretary Way Warns NJ Voters About Election Misinformation

Secretary of State Tahesha Way, New Jersey’s chief election official, is warning the public about text messages containing election misinformation being sent to some New Jersey voters. The messages, which appear to have been sent by an organization called Voting Futures, provide inaccurate voter registration information and direct the recipients to incorrect polling locations.

“Voters should know that your state and county election officials are the best source for trusted, verified information about our elections,” said Secretary Way. “Voters can check their voter registration, find their polling location, and more at vote.nj.gov. We strongly caution voters against relying upon unverified sources when making a plan to vote.”

If voters need assistance or have any questions, their local, county, and state election officials are available to help. Voters can reach out to their County Clerk, County Board of Elections, County Superintendent of Elections, or call the state voter information/protection hotline at 1-877-NJVOTER (1-877-658- 6837). For more information on voting, visit Vote.NJ.Gov. 

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NJ Human Services Partners with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection to Expand Access to Coastal Resources for Individuals with Disabilities

Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette announced the Department has awarded additional funding to continue helping communities implement inclusive initiatives that increase recreational access to coastal resources for individuals with disabilities.

The funding was awarded in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

“At Human Services we remain focused on expanding accessibility and inclusion across the state so individuals with disabilities can thrive in the places they live, work, explore and play,” Commissioner Adelman said. “All New Jerseyans should have the opportunity to explore the wonders of the state’s coastal areas and connect with nature. We thank the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for their partnership and commitment which help make these awards possible.”

“The Murphy Administration is committed to ensuring New Jersey’s diverse outdoor areas are accessible and inclusive for all, including our coastal treasures,” Commissioner LaTourette said. “DEP is proud to partner with DHS on this important initiative to help ensure every visitor can enjoy our coastal areas without impediment.”

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