Members:

On the heels of the Legislature’s bipartisan support and swift passage of the APANJ-backed legislation (S3780), our focus is now squarely on the Governor’s Office. We continue to advocate to Governor Murphy and his staff in support of the bill, emphasizing how necessary it is to restore the Prosecutors Part pension for all Assistant Prosecutors and DCJ-DAGs. Our message is simple: this is the most powerful tool in the state’s arsenal to attract and retain experienced career prosecutors. Moreover, this legislation comes at a critical time in our history when all of us are focused on reforming the criminal justice system; experienced career prosecutors are necessary to an effective justice system.

Thus far our conversations with Governor Murphy’s staff have been positive. Recently, I participated in a conference call with attorneys from Governor’s Counsel Office, which went very well. Also, there are other efforts underway to ensure the Governor and his staff are made aware of just how important this legislation is to each county prosecutor office throughout the state. Lastly, we have asked our stakeholders who have relationships with the Governor or his staff to reach out to the Governor and ask him to support this legislation. Stay tuned and continue to do all the good things you do as the courts reopen.

Thank you for your support of the APANJ.

David V. Calviello
President, APANJ