Rep. Mila M. Jasey

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New Jersey domestic violence protection orders (TROs) and related victim notices to be available in multiple languages, not just English. Specifically, it mandates that court notices and temporary restraining order templates be prepared in English, Spanish, and up to 10 additional high-demand languages spoken in the state. The Administrative Office of the Courts must create these multilingual materials to ensure victims with limited English proficiency can understand their rights and legal options. This directly affects domestic violence victims who speak languages other than English, improving access to critical legal protections.

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 New Jersey law (P.L.2023, c.231) permits licensed cosmetologists, hairstylists, and related professionals to rent individual chairs or booths within salons instead of requiring them to own or lease entire premises. Previously, practitioners needed full ownership or lease arrangements for their workspace. The change lowers startup costs for independent stylists and small businesses offering cosmetology, hairstyling, and ancillary services like nail care. It directly affects licensed practitioners seeking flexible workspace options without full business ownership.