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Moriarty, Burzichelli, Tucker, DeAngelo, Danielsen & Mukherji Bill to Establish Hiring Preference for Veterans in Non-Civil Service Jurisdictions Now Law

Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Paul Moriarty, John Burzichelli, Cleopatra Tucker, Wayne DeAngelo, Joe Danielsen and Raj Mukherji to ensure consideration of former members of the military for non-civil service jobs in New Jersey was signed into law on Monday.

“The enormous sacrifice and unyielding commitment required of New Jersey’s military families is reason enough to do what we can to help veterans get back to work sooner than later after their service has ended,” said Moriarty (D-Camden/Gloucester). “The valuable skills gained while working to preserve freedom and democracy can be an asset in non-civil service positions. Our veterans need more opportunities for employment and that is just what this law provides.”

The law (A-631) allows counties and municipalities whose hiring preferences are not regulated by the civil service rules to provide hiring preferences to veterans.

“Too many of our veterans are out of work,” said Burzichelli (D-Cumberland/Gloucester/ Salem). “This law opens doors for veterans that may not have been open to them before.”

“We must encourage employers to look to veterans who are searching for a candidate to fill positions,” said Tucker (D-Essex). “Establishing a hiring preference does just that.”

In order to be eligible for preferential treatment when applying for employment with a county or municipality, the veteran must be at least equally qualified with all other candidates for the position.

“Many of New Jersey’s military men and women returned home to a tough economic climate and a dismal unemployment rate,” said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “This law will give veterans access to the opportunity they deserve when they come back home.”

“This law honors the sacrifice and invaluable service made by each and every New Jersey veteran,” said Danielsen (D-Middlesex/Somerset). “Veterans have selflessly served this country here and overseas to protect our freedoms. It is our duty to ensure they have every opportunity to find work when they return to civilian life.”

“Veterans are a priority in hiring on the federal and state level for civil service positions,” said Mukherji (D-Hudson). “This measure expands the law to allow local governments to participate in veterans’ preference in hiring for non-civil service jobs.”

The law does not modify any provision of chapter 14 of Title 40A of the New Jersey statutes concerning preference given to veterans with regard to employment in police and fire departments.

The measure received unanimous approval from both houses of the legislature.