A bill sponsored by Assemblyman Alex Sauickie was unanimously advanced by the Assembly Appropriations Committee on Thursday. The legislation aims to expand protections for youth ages 18 to 21 who are receiving services in institutions or day schools regulated by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. This measure is part of Sauickie’s efforts to address ongoing reports of abuse and neglect in state-funded homes, particularly for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
“Families living in New Jersey with young adults who need specialized care or treatment are often forced to place their trust in the providers licensed by the Department of Children and Families. While there are examples of great providers, there are also those who have historically violated the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” Sauickie said. “This bill will extend critical protections for the vulnerable populations at higher risk of abuse and neglect.”
The proposed legislation (A5636/S3751) would change the definition of child abuse or neglect to include individuals between 18 and 21 years old who may be abused, neglected, or exploited by staff, contractors, or volunteers at institutions and day schools under state regulation.
Additionally, the bill would move full investigatory responsibility for such cases from the Office of Program Integrity and Accountability within the Human Services Department to the Department of Children and Families.
“Families deserve more accountability from providers, greater oversight, and a more responsive system of care. That starts by ensuring their concerns are heard and thoroughly investigated by the agency that oversees the care of their loved ones,” Sauickie said.
A report from New Jersey’s disability ombudsman described abuse and neglect as “rampant” in state-licensed residential facilities. The ombudsman’s office recorded 2,313 unique visitors to its website section on reporting abuse and neglect over one year.
The Department of Children and Families currently serves about 1,800 youth aged 18 to 21 each month through programs designed to meet a range of needs including physical, mental, behavioral, educational, and residential support.
“It’s past time to ensure that our most vulnerable young people receive equal protections under the law. I look forward to seeing this swiftly signed into law as I continue to fight for those who can’t fight for themselves,” Sauickie said.
Across the United States, more than a quarter of states have laws that include youth over age 18 in definitions related to child maltreatment. About 15% extend these protections up to age 21 if individuals remain within the child welfare system.
Before becoming law, the bill must still pass a vote in the Assembly before moving on to consideration by the governor.
John DiMaio has served as Minority Leader since 2022 after joining New Jersey’s General Assembly in 2009. He previously held positions such as Budget Officer from 2018-2019 and Appropriations Officer from 2012-2017. DiMaio’s legislative career follows earlier roles including mayoral service in Hackettstown from 1991-1999 and membership on Warren County Board of Freeholders between 2000-2009 (https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/legislative-roster/313/assemblyman-dimaio). He represents District 23 which includes areas like Hackettstown (https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/legislative-roster/313/assemblyman-dimaio).
