Sen. Nilsa Cruz-Perez

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Office for Women’s Advancement within New Jersey’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development to promote full and equal participation of women in the workplace. The office will collect and analyze data on workplace issues affecting women - including pay gaps, hiring practices, and work-family balance - and collaborate with state agencies like the New Jersey Advisory Commission on the Status of Women. It will review legislation and regulations related to gender equity, provide public education through reports and events, and recommend policy changes. The bill also creates a dedicated "Women's Advancement Fund" to finance these activities, with an annual state appropriation.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 21) encourages New Jersey and U.S. higher education institutions to address the underrepresentation of Hispanic and Latino leaders in college presidency roles. It specifically urges schools to establish leadership development programs, diversify governing boards and search committees, and partner with organizations supporting Hispanic and Latino leaders. The bill highlights that while Hispanic and Latino students make up 20% of U.S. undergraduates (25% in New Jersey), only 6% of college presidents nationally identify as Hispanic or Latino. As a non-binding resolution, it does not impose legal requirements but aims to promote inclusive leadership that better reflects student demographics and supports student well-being.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 1063) requires New Jersey's Department of Health (DOH) to develop interconception care resources for healthcare providers and patients. Specifically, the DOH must create evidence-based clinical algorithms to help providers assess risks and manage complications from previous pregnancies, plus patient education materials explaining common postpartum health issues, treatments, and self-care strategies. The materials must be available in English, Spanish, and other major languages spoken in the state. These resources aim to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce risks in future pregnancies by enhancing postpartum care coordination. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all New Jersey state entities (including agencies, universities, and offices) to separate and recycle specific materials - aluminum, corrugated cardboard, glass, paper, and plastic - from waste generated at their owned, leased, or operated buildings. State entities must establish collection procedures, contract with licensed recyclers, and provide accessible recycling bins, signage, and education for both employees and the public. The law excludes state parks/forests using a "carry-in, carry-out" trash program. The Department of Treasury, with the Environmental Protection Department, must create compliance guidance within 180 days and ensure all state branches follow the requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates November as "Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSDS) Awareness Month" in New Jersey. It amends existing law to require the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to observe November with activities promoting awareness of RSDS (also known as complex regional pain syndrome), a chronic condition causing severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity. The bill builds on New Jersey's 2007 RSDS education and research program, which aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment through public awareness. It does not create new funding or programs but focuses on annual recognition to support those affected by this condition.

Maddy summaryS 1064 requires the Civil Service Commission to create a mandatory training program for human resources officers working at public employers (such as state agencies, counties, schools, and municipalities) on handling domestic violence reports from employees. The training covers topics like the impact of domestic violence, protection orders, the New Jersey Security and Financial Empowerment Act, and community support resources, and must be developed with input from social workers and law enforcement. All human resources officers must complete the training within 90 days of starting their role, and the program must be reviewed and updated every two years. The training is free and available to all public employers, regardless of whether they follow standard civil service rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill would require New Jersey Medicaid to cover family-based counseling services as part of substance use disorder treatment for eligible beneficiaries. It amends existing Medicaid coverage rules to specifically include these counseling services under authorized treatments provided in licensed facilities meeting state requirements. The policy would directly affect Medicaid recipients receiving substance use disorder care who would now have access to family-involved treatment options. Coverage would apply to both inpatient and outpatient settings where such services are prescribed by a physician.

Maddy summaryThis bill provides tax credits to New Jersey breweries and wineries for purchasing Jersey Fresh products used in production. Businesses can claim a credit equal to the cost of qualifying Jersey Fresh commodities (verified through Department of Agriculture documentation), up to $10,000 per tax period. To qualify, applicants must submit receipts, verification of Jersey Fresh purchases, and an affidavit confirming the products were used in production. Unused credits may be carried forward for up to 20 years. The credit applies to both corporation business tax and gross income tax liabilities.

Maddy summaryS 1302 creates two bodies to address veteran support in New Jersey. A 13-member task force will study issues faced by service members returning from Afghanistan/Iraq deployments (including mental health, employment, and family needs) and recommend state actions. A separate 5-member commission will review inconsistent state definitions of "veteran" and "disabled veteran" to improve clarity and uniformity. Both groups must issue reports with findings and legislative recommendations within six months. The bill directly affects returning National Guard members, reservists, and their families, focusing on practical support systems rather than new benefits.

Maddy summaryS 1070 requires all new or used school buses purchased after enactment to have video cameras installed near their crossing control arms (stop arms). This affects school districts, nonpublic schools, and school bus contractors who must comply with the camera requirement within 37 months. The cameras must be approved by the Motor Vehicle Commission and are intended to help enforce laws against vehicles passing stopped school buses while children are boarding or exiting. Schools must also report to the Commissioner of Education within 37 months which buses have these cameras installed.