New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2527

Introduced
2/14/22  
Refer
2/14/22  

Caption

Establishes "Military Pro Bono Program" to provide pro bono legal representation to active-duty members of Armed Forces, Reserve components, members of National Guard, and veterans.

Impact

The implementation of A2527 is set to have a significant impact on state laws by creating a structured program within the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs dedicated to providing legal assistance in areas such as family law, estate planning, employment law, and immigration law. As a result, it will enhance the protection of rights and interests for military personnel and veterans facing legal challenges. Furthermore, it aims to fill a critical gap in legal resources for those in the armed forces, promoting justice and equity.

Summary

Bill A2527 establishes the 'Military Pro Bono Program' in New Jersey, aimed at providing pro bono legal representation for active-duty members of the Armed Forces, Reserve components, National Guard members, and veterans. This initiative addresses the legal service needs of military personnel who may face various civil legal issues but lack the financial resources to obtain legal representation. It emphasizes the state’s commitment to supporting those who serve in the military and ensuring they have access to necessary legal services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A2527 is largely positive, with strong support from various stakeholders who recognize the importance of providing legal support to military families and veterans. Advocacy groups, legal aid organizations, and military associations have expressed enthusiasm for the bill, seeing it as a necessary step in ensuring that those who serve the country receive adequate legal representation. The general feedback suggests a consensus on the need for improved legal support mechanisms for servicemen and women.

Contention

While A2527 has faced minimal opposition, some concerns were raised regarding the potential strains on existing legal aid resources and the capacity of volunteers who may provide pro bono services. Critics urge caution, questioning whether there will be sufficient funding and legal expertise available to sustain the program effectively. Nonetheless, the prevailing view among proponents is that the benefits of providing tailored legal assistance to military personnel greatly outweigh these concerns, highlighting the need for practical solutions to support those who have served the nation.

Companion Bills

NJ S1388

Same As Establishes "Military Pro Bono Program" to provide pro bono legal representation to active-duty members of Armed Forces, Reserve components, members of National Guard, and veterans.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1388

Establishes "Military Pro Bono Program" to provide pro bono legal representation to active-duty members of Armed Forces, Reserve components, members of National Guard, and veterans.

NJ S4246

Establishes Veterans Care Commission to study and address issues facing returning members of US Armed Forces, Reserve components of US Armed Forces, and NJ National Guard.

NJ A2741

Allows tax credits for employing members of NJ National Guard and members of reserve component of US Armed Forces.

NJ A4566

Allows tax credits for employing members of NJ National Guard and members of reserve component of US Armed Forces.

NJ S3227

Allows tax credits for employing members of NJ National Guard and members of reserve component of US Armed Forces.

NJ S2566

Allows tax credits for employing members of NJ National Guard and members of reserve component of US Armed Forces.

NJ S228

Establishes task force to study issues facing returning members of US Armed Forces, NJ National Guard, and reserve component of US Armed Forces; creates permanent commission to study various definitions related to veteran status.

NJ S373

Establishes task force to study issues facing returning members of US Armed Forces, NJ National Guard, and reserve component of US Armed Forces; creates permanent commission to study various definitions related to veteran status.

NJ A5489

Establishes task force to study issues facing returning members of US Armed Forces, NJ National Guard, and reserve component of US Armed Forces; creates permanent commission to study various definitions related to veteran status.

NJ S3247

Establishes counseling program for eligible family members of active duty military members and disabled veterans.

Similar Bills

CA SB614

California Military Department Support Fund activities.

CA AB481

Law enforcement and state agencies: military equipment: funding, acquisition, and use.

TX HB3841

Relating to military duty of a conservator of a child in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship.

CA AB361

Military Department: support programs.

NJ SJR106

Designates April 14 of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Day" in NJ.

NJ AJR198

Designates April 14 of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Day" in NJ.

NJ SJR74

Designates month of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Month" in NJ; designates last full week of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Week" in NJ.

NJ AJR109

Designates month of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Month" in NJ; designates last full week of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Week" in NJ.