Asm. Sadaf F. Jaffer

Maddy summaryThis New Jersey bill (A-1475, now P.L.2023, c.230) requires courts to consider "coercive control" when deciding domestic violence restraining orders. Coercive control is defined as patterns of behavior that unreasonably interfere with a person’s freedom, including isolating victims from support, depriving them of basics, controlling finances, or using threats (like those based on immigration status). The bill adds this factor to the list courts must evaluate alongside other considerations like past abuse and immediate danger. It directly affects domestic violence victims and courts handling restraining order cases by ensuring non-physical control tactics are formally addressed.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A1271) allows public school students in grades 6-12 to have one excused absence per school year to attend approved civic events. It defines "civic events" as those sponsored by government, community organizations, or nonprofits addressing public concerns like health, safety, or environmental issues. Students must have parental written notice at least five school days in advance, and school districts must provide guidance on qualifying events. The law specifies that transcripts and attendance records must not list these absences as excused.