Assembly Democrats Annette Chaparro, Benjie Wimberly and Mila Jasey released the following statements today regarding Acting Governor Sheila Oliver signing Joint Resolution 136 commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Federal Fair Housing Act into law:
“New Jersey can now officially recognize the 50th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act. It is important that we recognize how much work has been done over the last 50 years to ensure the right to fair housing for our residents. As the vice-chair of the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee, it is one of my main priorities to uphold and continue to fight for fair and equal housing throughout our state.” – Assemblywoman Chaparro (D-Hudson).
“Segregation is a significant issue when it comes to housing in New Jersey. A zip code should not be a defining characteristic for anyone – whether it be in terms of education, health, or overall quality of life. In recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, we recognize all that has been done in the past 50 years to rid of discrimination in housing policies, and the signing of this law shows our commitment to uphold these standards in New Jersey.” – Assemblyman Wimberly (D-Bergen/Passaic).
“50 years ago, the Fair Housing Act was enacted and outlawed discriminatory practices such as a lack of access to safe and adequate housing. Unfortunately, this problem continues to persist in some of our communities. By recognizing the 50th anniversary of this act, we are sending a message in our state that we will continue to fight for all of our residents to have access to quality, safe housing.” – Assemblywoman Jasey (D-Essex/Morris).