ASSEMBLY TRANSPORTATION AND INDEPENDENT AUTHORITIES COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 5737

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 14, 2021

      The Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 5737.

      As reported, this bill establishes within the Department of State the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Commission.  The commission is tasked with: developing policies to improve the community, economic, social well-being, health and educational needs important to AAPI communities in New Jersey; developing and coordinating Statewide programs, recognizing the continuing contributions of AAPI individuals in New Jersey; drawing upon the membership's knowledge and expertise in creating activities designed to better educate all citizens of New Jersey on AAPI issues and culture; and increasing the awareness among AAPI individuals of governmental affairs and community and social service resources that may benefit AAPI individuals and communities as a whole.

      The commission is to consist of 30 members, representing the diversity of the AAPI community in New Jersey.  Each public member after the first appointments is to serve a term of three years.  The public members should have experience in advocacy for their communities.  The commission will be required to submit an annual report to the Governor and the Legislature about the commission’s activities. 

      Members of the commission are not entitled to compensation, but will receive reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred in performing their duties.  The commission is also authorized to call upon any department, office, division, or agency of the State, or of any county, municipality, or district for such things as information or personnel in order to accomplish the tasks of the commission.