Makes supplemental appropriation of $120,000 from General Fund to DCF for Street Outreach Program of Anchor House.
Impact
By providing this supplemental financial support, the bill directly impacts state laws concerning youth welfare and social services within New Jersey. It facilitates the continuation of vital outreach efforts in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, namely runaway and homeless youth. The funding is pivotal, especially since the Anchor House's SOP had received earlier grants under the federal Runaway and Homeless Youth Act, but did not receive any awards in the FY 2023 grant cycle. Consequently, the state's involvement through Bill S3395 is crucial to fill this funding gap and sustain the critical services offered by Anchor House.
Summary
Bill S3395 seeks to make a supplemental appropriation of $120,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) in New Jersey. This funding is specifically designated for the Street Outreach Program (SOP) provided by Anchor House in Trenton. The legislation aims to support vital services for runaway, homeless, and street youth, aged 14 to 21, particularly focusing on those residing in Mercer County. The allocated funds will be utilized for a variety of essential goods and services including food, clothing, personal hygiene products, shelter referrals, and case management assistance.
Contention
While the bill generally fosters a supportive initiative, debates around funding allocation for social services can often unveil opposing perspectives. Some legislators may question the adequacy of the amount set aside or the sustainability of the support for such programs in the long term. Furthermore, concerns about ensuring effective oversight and maximizing the impact of the funded services could also be points of contention among lawmakers and stakeholders interested in youth welfare.
Notable_points
One significant aspect of Bill S3395 is its immediate effectiveness upon enactment, allowing for prompt allocation of resources to aid at-risk youth in Mercer County. Given the growing concerns around youth homelessness, the bill signifies a legislative commitment to addressing social issues rather than allowing them to escalate without intervention.
Makes supplemental appropriation of $9 million from General Fund to DOE to support Engaged Learning Strategies - STEM Curriculum Program in certain school districts.
Makes supplemental appropriation of $500,000 to DCA for NJ State Veterans Chamber of Commerce for veteran economic development and outreach and skills development.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.