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Bill

A 4339

Increases pay for direct support professionals; makes appropriation.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Reginald Atkins and 3 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill to increase wages for direct support professionals serving disabled and elderly populations through state funding allocation.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Aging and Human Services Committee
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Bill Summary · A 4339

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 4339 proposes to increase compensation for direct support professionals (DSPs) in New Jersey and allocates state funds to support this wage increase. Direct support professionals are frontline workers who provide essential care and assistance to individuals with disabilities, elderly populations, and other vulnerable groups in community and residential settings.

Why is this important

DSPs are chronically underpaid despite performing physically and emotionally demanding work, which creates high turnover rates and workforce shortages that directly impact the quality of care for vulnerable populations. Increasing DSP wages could improve service quality, reduce staff turnover, and address a critical labor shortage affecting New Jersey's disability and long-term care sectors.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: The bill requires state appropriations; lawmakers may debate whether sufficient funds exist or whether this competes with other budget priorities
  • Implementation scope: Unclear whether the pay increase applies to all DSPs statewide or specific settings (group homes, day programs, facilities), and how it affects private vs. publicly-funded providers
  • Sustainability concerns: Critics may question whether one-time appropriations can create permanent wage improvements or whether ongoing funding mechanisms are needed to prevent future cuts

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

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