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Bill

Bill

A 1148

Provides for background checks and other requirements for certain agencies providing temporary home for child or pregnant woman during crisis.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Aura Dunn and 3 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill requiring background checks and safety standards for agencies operating crisis shelters for children and pregnant women to prevent harm to vulnerable populations.

Reported and Referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee
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Bill Summary · A 1148

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1148 mandates background checks and establishes operational requirements for agencies that provide temporary housing for children or pregnant women in crisis situations. The bill aims to strengthen safety protocols and oversight of these emergency shelter facilities across New Jersey.

Why is this important

Crisis shelters serve vulnerable populations—children in acute distress and pregnant women facing emergency housing needs—making safety vetting and regulatory standards critical public health concerns. Standardized background check requirements could prevent placement of individuals with relevant criminal histories in positions of authority over vulnerable residents.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Agencies may argue that background check mandates and compliance requirements increase operational expenses, potentially reducing shelter capacity or availability in underserved areas
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether requirements apply to all staff, volunteers, contractors, or only certain positions, creating potential compliance confusion and enforcement challenges
  • Timeline concerns: Extended legislative process (introduced January 2024, still in committee as of May 2025) suggests possible disagreement on specific requirements or resource allocation

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

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