New Jersey Officials Urged to Increase State Funding for Social Services Amid Federal Cutbacks
Advocates have called on New Jersey officials to significantly increase state funding for critical social services, including mental health, housing for the homeless, support for seniors and people with disabilities, and childcare. This plea comes during a budget listening session with state officials, as New Jersey anticipates substantial federal funding cuts that could reduce revenue for health and social services by billions annually in the coming years. The Department of Human Services' budget, which topped $37 billion this year with 56% from federal dollars, is expected to be heavily impacted. Concerns were raised about the potential loss of Medicaid benefits for up to 300,000 individuals and food aid for another 50,000. Organizations providing mental health services warned of increased demand and the need for additional state funding to compensate for federal shortfalls. Governor Mikie Sherrill is expected to compile a statewide budget proposal by February, with lawmakers finalizing it by July 1.
