Criminal Justice (Children)

This bill requires New Jersey's Department of Human Services to create a program helping children under 18 with incarcerated non-custodial parents access safety net benefits. The program must collaborate with Corrections and Courts to identify affected children, then contact their custodial parent or guardian at least three times (including one written contact) to explain available benefits like food assistance, healthcare (NJ FamilyCare), and childcare subsidies. It mandates tracking applications and providing eligibility decisions within 30 days of submission. The bill directly affects children in these situations by connecting them to existing state support programs they might otherwise miss.

This bill requires state employers and service providers (contractors) to verify applicants' history of child abuse or sexual misconduct for positions involving regular contact with children. Applicants must provide a list of their current and past employers (within the last 20 years) and disclose any related investigations, disciplinary actions, or license issues. Employers must then contact previous employers to confirm this information, and applicants who provide false details may face denial of employment or civil penalties up to $500. The policy applies to all state departments and contracted entities hiring for child-involving roles.