Committee Will Examine Barriers to Employment for Minority Groups
(TRENTON) – Taking a seat on a committee that will examine issues of equality in industries across New Jersey, Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson has been appointed to the Joint Committee on Economic Justice and Equal Employment Opportunity.
“I couldn’t be more honored to serve on this committee,” said Reynolds-Jackson (D-Mercer, Hunterdon). “It’s no secret that women, people of color, and other minority groups have to face unfair barriers to employment. By opening a dialogue on this issue, we can begin to understand what challenges exist and how we can help make sure all New Jerseyans have equal employment opportunity.”
The committee has been tasked with studying equality in the New Jersey workplace by hosting meetings and hearings with workers and industry leaders around the state. As many families continue to rebuild from the effects of the severe economic recession of 2008, the committee will assess the impact on workers and address disparities surrounding employment that still exist today.
The first meeting of the committee was held on Tuesday. Members heard testimony regarding the implementation of laws and policies designed to foster opportunities for women and minority groups to advance in the construction industry.
“So many people who desperately want to break into the construction industry are passed over for jobs because they lack the training or education required, and by no fault of their own. That kind of training isn’t always easily accessible, especially to those living in urban areas,” said Reynolds-Jackson. “These aspiring workers may benefit from apprenticeships or grant-funded programs in their area that could provide training and a pathway to gainful employment. When we’ve got more people working, we’ve got a better working economy.”
The Joint Committee will report its findings to the Legislature on a routine basis and complete other reports as needed.