Gov. Murphy signs legislation to allow caregivers to make alternative child care arrangements for their children
NEW JERSEY – Governor Phil Murphy Thursday signed legislation, A4640/S2886, amending New Jersey’s standby guardianship laws to expand caregivers’ ability to make prospective alternative arrangements for their children in case of an emergency.
This new law will help streamline the process to allow parents and guardians to designate alternative caregivers temporarily without going to court.
“When parents are unable to care for their children due to unforeseeable or emergent circumstances, they should have right to choose their caregivers,” Murphy said. “This legislation will help parents make these necessary arrangements and give them peace of mind knowing that their children are being cared for.”
“This new law will provide a real sense of security for parents or caregivers who are unable to care for their children due to unforeseen or emergency circumstances,” said DCF Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer. “Families know best who in their social circle is ready, willing and able to provide temporary care to their child/ren without unnecessary agency or court involvement.”
“The Consortium applauds the Governor, the Legislature, and the advocates for children who worked to make this bill a law,” said Emily Chertoff, Executive Director of the New Jersey Consortium for Immigrant Children. “Every family should be able to plan in case a parent or caregiver is detained, hospitalized, or otherwise incapacitated. A4640 will make it easier to give children the stability they deserve.”
