TRENTON, N.J. – The cost of childcare is a large expense for many who would like to run for public office but can’t afford the expenses. The Assembly moved to eliminate that barrier by passing a bill (S698) sponsored by Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz that would allow candidates and incumbents to use money they raised to pay for daycare or a babysitter.
“This bill will help many women enter politics when they thought it wasn’t a possibility before,” said Munoz (R-Union). “This bill does not use taxpayers’ dollars. It is money earned through hard work and dedication to making a difference in communities and the state.”
The Election Law Enforcement Commission will establish regulations for eligible expenses. The regulations will ensure that the funds are used to care for a child or children while candidates and incumbents are engaging in activities related to their campaigns.
“Going door-to-door, putting out signs, making calls, stuffing envelopes, going to events and other activities take a lot of time,” continued Munoz. “Helping people afford child care expenses through their own hard work will open up possibilities for people who might not have run for office otherwise.”