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Bill > S1153


NJ S1153

NJ S1153
Revises eligibility for convicted drug offenders to receive general assistance benefits under Work First New Jersey program.


summary

Introduced
01/09/2024
In Committee
01/09/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill revises the eligibility requirements for general assistance benefits under the Work First New Jersey program for individuals convicted of an offense involving the use, possession, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance. Currently, persons convicted of offenses involving the use or possession of a controlled dangerous substance may be eligible for general assistance benefits if they enroll in or complete a licensed drug treatment program, and persons convicted of an offense involving the possession of a controlled dangerous substance are permanently ineligible for benefits. Certain exceptions to the requirement to complete a drug treatment program apply if no program was available or the applicant was excused from meeting the requirement for good cause. This bill revises these restrictions to provide that anyone who is convicted of an offense involving the use, possession, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance will be eligible for general assistance benefits under the Work First New Jersey program if the individual completes a drug treatment program or otherwise qualifies for one of the current statutory exceptions.

AI Summary

This bill modifies the eligibility rules for general assistance benefits under the Work First New Jersey program for individuals convicted of drug-related offenses. Previously, those convicted of using or possessing controlled dangerous substances could receive benefits if they enrolled in or completed a drug treatment program, while those convicted of possession were permanently ineligible. This bill removes the permanent ineligibility for possession offenses and expands eligibility to anyone convicted of an offense involving the use, possession, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance, provided they complete a drug treatment program or meet existing exceptions, such as the unavailability of a program or good cause for not enrolling. The Work First New Jersey program is a state initiative designed to provide temporary cash assistance and support services to families with children.

Committee Categories

Health and Social Services

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee (on 01/09/2024)

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