Vows to Focus on Public Safety, Economy & Jobs for 36th Legislative District
Nutley resident Kevin J. Ryan on Thursday was sworn-in as the newest member of the New Jersey General Assembly.
Ryan will represent the 36th Legislative District, which includes Carlstadt, East Rutherford, Garfield, Lyndhurst, Moonachie, North Arlington, Nutley, Passaic, Rutherford, Wallington, Wood-Ridge. He was unanimously selected in December to fill the seat vacated by retired Assemblyman Frederick Scalera.
“It is my distinct pleasure to welcome Kevin Ryan as the newest member in the New Jersey General Assembly,” said Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver (D-Essex/Passaic), who delivered the oath to Ryan. “Assemblyman Ryan’s extensive law enforcement experience is a welcome addition to our talented Democratic caucus.”
Ryan, 41, is a graduate of Essex County College Police Academy and currently serves as an Undersheriff for the Essex County Sheriff’s Office where he heads the Office of Emergency Management. In addition to working as an aide to former Senate President Carmen Orecchio, Ryan has more than 20 years of experience in law enforcement, including serving as a Detective and later Deputy Chief for the Essex County Sheriff’s office.
“I could not be more honored to serve the residents of Bergen, Essex and Passaic counties and I look forward to working with my Assembly colleagues as a strong advocate for my constituents,” Ryan said. “We are at a critical juncture for our state, with many pressing issues at hand. I am extremely eager to be a part of the Democratic led effort to create jobs and revitalize our economy.”
Ryan joins Assemblyman Gary Schaer (D-Bergen/Essex/Pasaic) in representing the 36th Legislative District in the Assembly.
“I hope to use my public service experience and knowledge of law enforcement to address the recent spikes in crime that we have seen. Public safety is also a key component to a healthy economic recovery so I hope to play an active role in helping the state reemerge from this recession on sound footing,” Ryan said.
Oliver said she expects to soon announce committee assignments for Ryan.