Pintor Marin & Muñoz Bill Requiring Additional Training of Public Employees to Handle Complaints Becomes Law

Measure is Part of a Package Recommended by the NJ Legislative Select Oversight Committee

(TRENTON)– Legislation introduced by Assemblywomen Eliana Pintor Marin (D-Essex) and Nancy Muñoz (R-Union) to address the concerns of harassment and discrimination reporting practices on the state level was signed into law Monday by Governor Phil Murphy.

The law (formerly A-5632), which in December passed the Assembly 72-0 and Senate 40-0, requires certain public employees to receive additional training to manage harassment or discrimination complaints.

The sponsors issued the following statements:

 “One of the concerns revealed in the Select Committee hearing was a lack of process to file a workplace discrimination complaint,” said Assemblywoman Pintor Marin. “With this law we begin to create a fair and responsible road map for victims of harassment and discrimination.  If another victim should come forward in the future, with regard to any gubernatorial transition committee for any Governor, or someone employed by State government, they will have a safe place to tell their story and the employee they tell it to will be trained properly to ensure respect and consideration for the victim.”

“During my time as vice chair of the Legislative Select Oversight Committee, it became quite evident that there is more we can do to protect all state workers,” said Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz. “Ms. Brennan’s horrific experience must never be repeated. This is a first step in strengthening the state’s response to such complaints and ensuring we are aware of the backgrounds of all potential hires. It is a step in the right direction.”

Pintor Marin and Muñoz served as chair and vice-chair, respectively, of the Legislative Select Oversight Committee.