Assemblymen Alex Sauickie and Robert Clifton this week convened the first meeting of a bipartisan coalition focused on advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and advancing related protections.
The Bipartisan Legislative Disability Advocacy Coalition met Tuesday at the Manalapan Community Center, drawing families, advocates and service providers who shared personal experiences and helped shape policy priorities.
“This coalition brings together families, advocates, providers and lawmakers to ensure individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are heard and protected,” Sauickie said.
Clifton said the effort is intended to transcend party lines.
“This is not a partisan issue — it’s a human issue,” Clifton said. “Working together, we can deliver solutions and strengthen the voice of a community that has too often been overlooked.”
Participants discussed oversight of care facilities, support for families and providers, and accountability measures. A key focus was legislation (A4008) sponsored by Sauickie.
The measure, known as the “Justice for Vulnerable Residents Act,” would establish The New Jersey Justice Center for the Protection of Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, an independent justice center to investigate abuse, neglect and exploitation involving individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, while centralizing oversight.
Sauickie said the proposal drew strong support at the meeting.
“There is clear consensus that stronger protections and independent oversight are long overdue,” he said.
Clifton said feedback from attendees underscored the need for the legislation.
“This is about ensuring safety, dignity and justice for some of our most vulnerable residents,” he said.
The lawmakers also announced a Day of Advocacy scheduled for May 4 at the Statehouse in Trenton, where members of the IDD community will meet with legislators and share their experiences.
Organizers said the coalition will continue meeting to develop policy proposals and coordinate legislative efforts aimed at improving services and protections for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
