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Bill

Bill

A 4695

Creates Office of Nonprofit Ombudsperson in Department of Treasury; appropriates $329,000.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Yvonne Lopez and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill creates Office of Nonprofit Ombudsperson in Treasury Department with $329,000 funding to investigate and resolve nonprofit complaints against state agencies.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · A 4695

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 4695 establishes a new Office of Nonprofit Ombudsperson within New Jersey's Department of Treasury and allocates $329,000 in funding for its operations. This office would serve as an independent advocate to investigate and resolve complaints from nonprofit organizations regarding state agency interactions and regulatory compliance issues.

Why is this important

Nonprofits play a critical role in delivering social services, healthcare, and community support across New Jersey, yet they often navigate complex state regulations and licensing requirements. An ombudsperson office could reduce bureaucratic friction, improve nonprofit access to state services, and help identify systemic regulatory problems—ultimately strengthening the sector's capacity to serve vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost-benefit questions: Whether a $329,000 annual investment is justified versus alternative uses of treasury department resources, and whether complaint volume warrants a dedicated office
  • Scope and authority limitations: Whether the ombudsperson would have adequate investigative powers and enforcement mechanisms, or if recommendations would be advisory-only with limited real impact
  • Overlap concerns: Potential duplication with existing complaint mechanisms, state attorney general oversight, or other regulatory bodies already handling nonprofit issues

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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