With the goal of helping New Jerseyans in danger of becoming homeless have greater access to emergency assistance, the full Assembly on Monday approved legislation (A-5203) under which Work First New Jersey assistance received by a person seven years prior to submitting a new application for benefits would not be counted toward the cumulative 12-month limit on benefits. Bill sponsor, Assemblyman Raj Mukherji (D-Hudson) released the following statement:
“The Work First New Jersey program helps our most vulnerable residents in their time of need. Without this assistance, many would be at risk of homelessness. Not only does the program give residents the means to get through hard times, but it also guides them in finding employment and activities to help them become self-sufficient.
“However, life is unpredictable, and someone may face economic hardship more than once. This legislation will help people regain access to emergency assistance benefits to get them back on their feet.”