Jessica T. Hawkins

Nay to both.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Senator Vinachelli Stands Up For New Jersey Kids WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Vinachelli cast a deciding vote today to prevent a bill that would have robbed New Jersey children of federal resources for public schools across the state. The bill would have restricted federal funds from ‘any school’ that incorporates learning about racism as a social construct in its curriculum. Senator Vinachelli spoke on the floor about his opposition: ‘While I strongly support parent’s rights and believe we need to do more to keep parents informed and engaged in what is going on in their child’s classroom, this bill, as written, would unfairly penalize New Jersey kids by directing federal funds away from our state because of the decisions of former state leaders.’ Senator Vinachelli is concerned that state laws requiring New Jersey schools to highlight diversity, equity, and inclusion and offer Black History classes would put the state in violation of the federal law and lose out on even more federal dollars than the state already does. ‘New Jersey is one of the most diverse states in the nation and we are proud of that heritage,’ Vinachelli said. Senator Vinachelli pledged to work with parent’s rights groups to advocate for greater transparency and involvement for their kids in the classroom so long as it does not shortchange vital support for students enrolled in our K-12 system. ‘I cannot support making New Jersey children pay the price over state policy,’ Vinachelli said. ###

McCallen comments on upcoming Senate votes Washington, D.C.- U.S. Sen. Ross McCallen, D-Ariz., is looking forward to votes on two particular pieces of legislation, the Education Transparency and Parental Rights Act and the Hospital Competition Act. His full statement is as follows: ### CONTACT: Tierra Hunter, (202) 555-9272