(TRENTON) – Assemblywoman Nancy Pinkin (D-Middlesex) has been appointed to the New Jersey General Assembly’s Higher Education, Law and Public Safety and Homeland Security and State Preparedness committees.
Speaker Vincent Prieto cited Pinkin’s commitment to public service (she has served on the East Brunswick Township Council since 2005, including a two year term as council president), and professional experience as the owner of her own business in appointing her to these committees.
“Assemblywoman Pinkin has been a dedicated public servant since first elected to office eight years ago, all while successfully running her own business. I am certain she will bring that same level of dedication, professionalism and expertise to these committees,” said Prieto (D-Bergen/Hudson).
“I’m excited for the opportunity to further serve my constituents and all New Jerseyans by bringing a fresh perspective to these committees,” said Pinkin. “They each serve an important role in enhancing the education, safety and security of our residents, and I look forward to working with my fellow committee members to ensure that our work meets the needs and expectations of our residents.”
Added Pinkin, “making higher education more affordable and accessible to our young people, and protecting public safety and enhancing the quality of life of our residents by tackling crime and more pervasive threats like terrorism are all important goals to work towards, and as a member of these committees, I will apply all related skills, knowledge and expertise to help achieve them.”
The Higher Education Committee handles issues that relate directly to the state’s 31 public colleges and universities, including its 19 county and community colleges. The committee assists in directing policy relating to tuition aid and scholarship programs, such as the popular NJ STARS, and ensuring the success of inter-institutional agreements entered into by schools.
The Law and Public Safety Committee is responsible for reviewing legislation dealing with police, fire and emergency management services, public safety regulations, criminalization of activities and legal ramifications of crimes.
The Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee is responsible for monitoring the protection of citizens of the state, and oversees issues affecting counter-terrorism, risk assessments, infrastructure protections, emergency communications, border security and cyber security.
Pinkin, who is new to the Assembly, was sworn in during the Assembly reorganization meeting earlier this month. She joins Assemblyman Patrick Diegnan in representing the 18th district.