5/31/06
Advocacy continues for drug-free zone reform, permanent commission
While the New Jersey General Assembly focused on the budget in March and April, Dea DeWitt, N.J. project director and other members of the FAMM team advocated for drug-free zone reform, expanded treatment opportunities, and legislation to make the New Jersey Commission to Review Criminal Sentencing a permanent body (A. 2103 and S. 1401).
This spring the FAMM team discussed the importance of the zone reform bills with a number of key individuals and organizations, including the League of Municipalities, legislative leaders, and members of Gov. John Corzine's administration. Recent community outreach efforts included a presentation in Kearny to a high school youth conference.
Dea also participated in a strategy session on corrections and parole issues organized by the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice and attended by advocacy organizations, funders, and state criminal justice professionals. As we go to press, he is planning to meet with the leadership of the Black Ministers' Council.