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Bill

Bill

A 916

Establishes New Jersey Council on Responsible Fatherhood and Responsible Fatherhood Fund.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Verlina Reynolds-Jackson

New Jersey creates a Responsible Fatherhood Council and dedicated fund to coordinate state programs promoting paternal engagement and family stability.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Children, Families and Food Security Committee
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Bill Summary · A 916

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 916 establishes a New Jersey Council on Responsible Fatherhood and creates a dedicated Responsible Fatherhood Fund to support initiatives promoting paternal engagement and family stability. The bill creates a governance structure and financial mechanism to coordinate and fund programs addressing fatherhood-related issues across the state.

Why is this important

Research consistently shows that father involvement correlates with improved outcomes for children across educational, behavioral, and economic indicators. By creating dedicated infrastructure and funding, the state aims to systematize support for paternal engagement, particularly in communities where father absence is prevalent, potentially reducing costs associated with social services and criminal justice systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and fiscal impact – The bill's funding mechanism isn't detailed in the summary; unclear whether it requires new appropriations or redirects existing resources, affecting budget debates
  • Scope and effectiveness measurement – Questions about what specific programs the council will fund, how success is measured, and whether outcomes justify the administrative overhead of a new council
  • Gender equity concerns – Some may argue resources should equally address maternal engagement or that singling out fatherhood creates gender-based policy when family stability requires both parents

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

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