June 2024 Legislative Update

Because our family pets deserve fair and transparent health coverage, I was pleased to serve as prime co-sponsor of A1203 the “Pet Insurance Act.” Passed unanimously in the State Assembly, this bill stipulates that pet insurance policies must be transparent about coverage and disclose any exclusions, waiting periods, or changes to coverage or premiums based on factors such as the pet’s age, location, or past claims.

The bill also requires insurance companies to disclose the basis or formula upon which they determine claim payments and prohibits insurance companies from requiring a veterinary examination for policy renewals. Importantly, it also separates wellness programs from pet insurance, stating that wellness programs cannot be marketed as insurance, and that eligibility to purchase pet insurance should not be based on participation in a wellness program.

As we work to fight a teacher shortage and support our educators, I’m thrilled to share that A1669 has passed in both the Senate and Assembly. I am proud to be a primary sponsor of this bill, which removes unnecessary obstacles to teacher certification. As an educator and Superintendent of schools, I will always be an advocate for public education, supporting our teachers and our students.

I was also proud to be a cosponsor of A3974 which recently cleared the Assembly Oversight, Reform, and Federal Relations Committee as part of a package of bills designed to better monitor New Jersey’s addiction recovery industry. This bill would prohibit the use of deceptive marketing practices by substance use disorder treatment providers.

I introduced the Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses Act, which prohibits distribution of State aid to an institution of higher education that authorizes, funds, or supports antisemitic events or organizations or fails to punish acts of antisemitism on campus. This bipartisan Bill A4319 with second prime sponsor Assemblywoman Vicky Flynn makes it clear that while everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful protest, educational institutions must hold accountable those who incite violence, vandalize property, and encourage people to harass other students or residents. Hate has no home in New Jersey – for anyone.

While I do believe New Jersey’s Open Public Records Act is in need of reform, after careful deliberation, I voted NO on Bill A4045, which proposed various changes to process for access to government records. I thank advocates on both sides of the issue for their valuable time and input.