Category: New Jersey
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New Jersey Takes a Measured Step on Chronic Absenteeism — But Accountability Must Follow
New Jersey lawmakers have established a 18-member task force to tackle chronic absenteeism in schools, particularly heightened since the pandemic. The task force will analyze attendance trends and recommend solutions to improve engagement and accountability. The effectiveness of this initiative hinges on actionable steps to ensure student attendance and long-term educational recovery.
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New Jersey Bets on Artificial Intelligence—But Can It Balance Innovation and Reality?
New Jersey seeks to become a leader in artificial intelligence through public-private partnerships and tax incentives, avoiding stringent regulations. While some support this growth strategy, critics highlight underreported costs, including energy and infrastructure demands. Public trust and careful regulatory balance will be crucial for success in this ambitious initiative.
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Tipsy Justice: New Jersey Mandolin Thief Returns $9,000 in Instruments With a Handwritten Apology
A Teaneck man who stole nearly $9,000 in vintage mandolins from a North Jersey music shop returned them days later with a handwritten apology blaming alcohol and wishing everyone a Merry Christmas—turning a routine theft into one of the strangest feel-good stories of the holiday season.
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A Tragic Reminder of Hidden Danger Inside the Home: New Jersey Reckons With Domestic Violence After Imani Dia Smith’s Death
The killing of former Broadway child star Imani Dia Smith is a tragic reminder that the most dangerous threats often exist behind closed doors. As New Jersey confronts another case of intimate partner violence, the focus must shift beyond headlines to accountability, prevention, and the lasting trauma faced by children left behind.
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New Jersey Democrats Push State-Level Voting Rights Law — Critics Warn of Overreach and Litigation Risks
New Jersey’s Democratic delegation is advocating for the Voter Empowerment Act, aiming to enhance voting rights in response to federal court rulings. The bill proposes expanded language assistance, new legal tools for election challenges, and preclearance for local election changes. Critics raise concerns over litigation risks and potential impacts on voter confidence.
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NJ Family Leave Expansion Heads to Governor’s Desk, Raising New Concerns for Small Businesses
New Jersey’s new family leave bill expands job protection to employees at businesses with 15 or more workers. If signed by Governor Murphy, it reduces eligibility criteria and allows up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. While supporters argue it benefits workers, critics caution about the burdens on small businesses, highlighting a balance in policymaking.
New York Bay News 