New Jersey Invests $8M To Keep Youth Out Of Jail In 4 Cities

NEW JERSEY — When compared to New Jersey’s $46 billion state budget, $8 million seems like a drop in the bucket. But this funding – which will power new outreach programs in Newark, Camden, Paterson and Trenton – is expected to be “transformative” for many juveniles who are trying to turn their lives around after encounters with the criminal justice system.

Standing in for Gov. Phil Murphy, Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver signed a law on Wednesday that will create a two-year pilot program in the above cities.

The legislation, S-2924/A-4663, appropriates $4.2 million in fiscal years 2022 and 2023, for a total of $8.4 million over two years. The funds will help put young people back on a track to success after they’re released from juvenile detention facilities.

Focusing on “prevention and reintegration” – not punishment – outreach programs will be launched in Newark, Camden, Paterson and Trenton. The programs will include crucial tools that can help teens avoid encounters with the police, such as employment assistance, education, mental health care, mentoring and life skills classes.

In addition, “restorative justice hubs” will be launched in the four cities, giving families a safe space where they can heal, reconnect and build healthy relationships.

“A stronger and fairer New Jersey begins, in many ways, with our young people,” said Oliver, an East Orange resident.

“It’s essential that we not only invest in our communities but also in our youth,” Oliver urged. “Every child, regardless of their zip code, deserves a chance to succeed and reach their full potential.”

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According to the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, the choice of cities for the pilot programs is a good one – each have been “disproportionately impacted” by youth incarceration.

“This bill signing is a tremendous victory as we begin to shift funds – and our mindset – from investing in our kids’ failure to investing in their success,” said Andrea McChristian, director of law and policy at the Newark-based nonprofit.

“This law is historic for our state as we look to support youth and affirm their humanity and care,” agreed the Rev. Charles Boyer, a member of Woodbury-based Salvation and Social Justice.

Primary sponsors of the legislation include Senators Shirley Turner and Nellie Pou, and Assemblymembers Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, Anthony Verrelli, Shanique Speight and Shavonda Sumter.

• See related article: NJ Police Just Got 5 Tools To Help Juveniles Avoid Jail Time
• See related article: Teens Rally In Newark: 'Build Up Kids, Not Prisons'
• See related article: Petty Crimes, Serious Time: Plug Prison Pipeline, NJ Advocate Says

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