New Jersey Assembly Bill A2273

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires each State cabinet level department to establish office dedicated to language and disability access.

Impact

By requiring each state department to create a division focusing on language and disability access, A2273 is expected to foster a government environment that is more accommodating and responsive to the diverse needs of its citizens. This proactive measure aims to uphold the principles laid down in federal legislation, specifically Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which protects students and employees with disabilities from discrimination. The anticipated outcome is a more accessible state government, leading to improved service delivery for individuals with disabilities.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2273 mandates that each cabinet-level department in New Jersey establish a dedicated division for language and disability access. This initiative is designed to eliminate barriers that individuals with disabilities or language barriers encounter when interfacing with state services. The bill is structured to support full inclusion and provide equal opportunities for all individuals involved with these departments, ensuring that they receive adequate help tailored to their needs.

Contention

Discussions around A2273 may touch upon its financial implications, particularly concerning budget allocations for establishing these divisions and hiring qualified personnel. Some stakeholders might express concerns regarding the feasibility of implementation across all departments given existing state budget constraints. Additionally, the varying levels of commitment and resources among different departments could lead to inconsistent application of the standards mandated by this bill.