Mukherji, McKnight & Chiaravalloti Statement on Assembly Passage of Bill to Ensure Emergency Assistance for Struggling Residents

Bill Headed to Governor’s Desk

(TRENTON) – Assembly Democrats Raj Mukherji (D-Hudson), Angela McKnight (D-Hudson) and Nicholas Chiaravalloti (D-Hudson) released the following statement regarding the recent full Assembly approval of bill A-1887, which will expand access to crucial state Emergency Assistance (EA) program for New Jersey residents who’ve fallen on difficult times:

“When a person is facing homelessness or extreme hardship, any bit of assistance can go a long way towards helping them get back on their feet. That’s exactly what the Emergency Assistance program does for residents who may have lost their home or possessions as result of a natural disaster like a flood or fire, as well as others experiencing homelessness for a multitude of reasons.

“This bill would allow a person who previously received EA to become eligible for twelve months of assistance if it has been at least seven years since they last received EA. Even if they’d fallen on tough times before, families will have access to this critical lifeline should they need it again. These changes will not only lend struggling families a helping hand, but safeguard our system from being taken advantage.

“We’d like to thank our colleagues in the Assembly and Senate for moving this important bill forward to the Governor’s desk.”

The bill (A-1887/S-1965) was approved by both Houses on Monday.