Level the Playing Field

Dear Jazz,

In the spirit of Women's History Month, a time when we honor the monumental contributions of women to our society and reflect on the ongoing struggle for gender equality, I find it imperative to address an issue that continues to hinder our progress toward a truly equitable society: the persistent wage gap between men and women. This disparity not only undermines the fundamental principle of fairness but also perpetuates systemic inequalities that women have been battling for centuries. As we celebrate the achievements and resilience of women throughout history, we must also commit to actionable change that ensures women are paid what they rightfully deserve.

The fight for equality in all areas of life has been a long and arduous journey for women. From securing the right to vote to breaking glass ceilings in the corporate and political realms, women have demonstrated time and again their indispensable role in shaping our world. Yet, despite these strides, the wage gap remains a glaring testament to the work that still lies ahead. It's a complex issue rooted in traditional gender roles, discrimination, and a lack of policies that support work-life balance for all parents, regardless of gender. Addressing this issue requires not just legislative action but also a cultural shift that values and compensates women's contributions equally.

The data on the wage gap is both stark and telling. On average, women earn approximately 82 cents for every dollar earned by men, with even wider disparities for women of color. This gap cannot be explained away by differences in education, experience, or job type alone; it is indicative of systemic bias and discrimination. It affects women's financial stability, their families, and the economy at large. When women are underpaid, everyone suffers. It's time to level the playing field and ensure that women are compensated fairly for their work, reflecting their true value to our society.

As mayor, I believe it is within our power and our duty to enact policies that promote pay equity. This includes supporting transparency in pay, encouraging companies to conduct pay equity audits, and enforcing anti-discrimination laws. Moreover, we must advocate for policies that enable all parents to balance their careers with their family responsibilities, such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and affordable childcare. These are not just women's issues; they are economic and societal imperatives that demand our collective action.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, let us not forget that honoring women's contributions to our society means more than just acknowledging their achievements; it means actively working to eliminate the barriers they face. The wage gap is a relic of a bygone era, one that we have the power to eradicate. Let's pay women what they deserve and, in doing so, pave the way for a more just and equitable future. It's not just the right thing to do—it's essential for the continued prosperity and progress of our society.

Sincerely,

Mayor Adrian O. Mapp

City of Plainfield

Nivelar el Campo de Juego

Querido(a) Jazz,

En el espíritu del Mes de la Historia de la Mujer, un momento en el que honramos las contribuciones monumentales de las mujeres a nuestra sociedad y reflexionamos sobre la lucha actual por la igualdad de género, considero imperativo abordar una cuestión que continúa obstaculizando nuestro progreso hacia una sociedad verdaderamente equitativa. : la persistente brecha salarial entre hombres y mujeres. Esta disparidad no sólo socava el principio fundamental de justicia, sino que también perpetúa las desigualdades sistémicas contra las que las mujeres han estado luchando durante siglos. Mientras celebramos los logros y la resiliencia de las mujeres a lo largo de la historia, también debemos comprometernos a realizar cambios viables que garanticen que las mujeres reciban el salario que merecen por derecho.

La lucha por la igualdad en todos los ámbitos de la vida ha sido un camino largo y arduo para las mujeres. Desde asegurar el derecho al voto hasta romper los techos de cristal en los ámbitos empresarial y político, las mujeres han demostrado una y otra vez su papel indispensable en la configuración de nuestro mundo. Sin embargo, a pesar de estos avances, la brecha salarial sigue siendo un testimonio evidente del trabajo que aún queda por delante. Es un problema complejo que tiene sus raíces en los roles de género tradicionales, la discriminación y la falta de políticas que apoyen el equilibrio entre el trabajo y la vida personal de todos los padres, independientemente del género. Abordar esta cuestión requiere no sólo acción legislativa sino también un cambio cultural que valore y compense las contribuciones de las mujeres por igual.

Los datos sobre la brecha salarial son a la vez crudos y reveladores. En promedio, las mujeres ganan aproximadamente 82 centavos por cada dólar ganado por los hombres, con disparidades aún mayores para las mujeres de color. Esta brecha no puede explicarse únicamente por diferencias en educación, experiencia o tipo de trabajo; es indicativo de sesgo y discriminación sistémicos. Afecta la estabilidad financiera de las mujeres, sus familias y la economía en general. Cuando las mujeres reciben salarios bajos, todos sufren. Es hora de nivelar el campo de juego y garantizar que las mujeres reciban una compensación justa por su trabajo, reflejando su verdadero valor para nuestra sociedad.

Como alcalde, creo que está dentro de nuestro poder y nuestro deber promulgar políticas que promuevan la equidad salarial. Esto incluye apoyar la transparencia en los salarios, alentar a las empresas a realizar auditorías de equidad salarial y hacer cumplir las leyes contra la discriminación. Además, debemos abogar por políticas que permitan a todos los padres equilibrar sus carreras con sus responsabilidades familiares, como horarios de trabajo flexibles, licencia parental y cuidado infantil asequible. Estos no son sólo problemas de mujeres; son imperativos económicos y sociales que exigen nuestra acción colectiva.

Al celebrar el Mes de la Historia de la Mujer, no olvidemos que honrar las contribuciones de las mujeres a nuestra sociedad significa más que simplemente reconocer sus logros; significa trabajar activamente para eliminar las barreras que enfrentan. La brecha salarial es una reliquia de una época pasada, una que tenemos el poder de erradicar. Paguemos a las mujeres lo que merecen y, al hacerlo, allanemos el camino hacia un futuro más justo y equitativo. No es sólo lo correcto: es esencial para la prosperidad y el progreso continuos de nuestra sociedad.

#LovePlainfield #AmoPlainfield

Creando Un Plainfield. Un Futuro.

Alcalde Adrian O. Mapp

Ciudad de Plainfield

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Governor Murphy Proposes Historic Education Budget Boost: Fully Funding New Jersey Schools

PLAINFIELD, NJ – February 29, 2024 – Governor Murphy's recent visit to Charles and Anna Booker Elementary School in Plainfield marked a pivotal moment in the history of public education in New Jersey. He unveiled a groundbreaking proposed budget, which stands as the largest investment ever made in the state's educational system. This landmark budget fully funded the state's school funding formula for the first time, catapulting public school funding from $908 million to a staggering $11.7 billion.

The significance of this moment was not lost on Rashon K. Hasan, Ed. S., Superintendent of Schools, who expressed boundless enthusiasm about the historic investment. He underscored its potential to provide students with the vital resources and support needed for both academic excellence and personal growth. Mayor Adrian Mapp echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the proposed budget not only honored the legacy of the Bookers but also laid the groundwork for a future where every student in Plainfield and beyond could dream without limitations.

In addition to the substantial increase in general funding, Governor Murphy proposed an additional $124 million to bolster pre-K education, with $20 million earmarked for expanding pre-K in new districts, creating over 1,000 seats. Craig Coughlin, Speaker of the New Jersey House, highlighted the long-term benefits of this investment, emphasizing its role in shaping the future of New Jersey and ensuring that the state maintained its position as a leader in education.

Acknowledging the dedication to education that facilitated the budget proposal, Sean Spiller, NJEA President, and Donna M. Chiera, American Federation of Teacher New Jersey (AFT) President, commended the commitment to ensuring every student had access to quality education.

Reflecting on the significance of the announcement, it becomes clear why Governor Murphy chose this particular school as the backdrop. Charles and Anna Booker, instrumental figures in desegregating schools in Plainfield and beyond, embody the spirit of progress and equity that underpins this historic investment. Their legacy serves as a guiding light as we strive to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.

The proposed budget, with its unprecedented investment in education, not only honors the legacy of the Bookers but also lays the foundation for a future where every student can dream without limits, aspire with confidence, and achieve with unwavering support. It represents more than just a monetary investment; it is an investment in the future of our children, our community, and our society as a whole. As we move forward, let us continue to work together to turn this vision into reality, ensuring that every student receives the education they deserve.

Celebrating Black History Month:

Jubilation Choir Gospel Concert

"The Middle Passage and African American Journey".

Watch Jubilation Concert HERE

Saturday, February 24, 2024 - In a resplendent celebration of Black History Month, Voices of Jubilation ignited the stage with their captivating performance titled "The Middle Passage and African American Journey".

This extraordinary event was a triumphant blend of slave songs, spirituals, and both traditional and contemporary gospel music. Set against a backdrop of poignant narrations depicting the African slave lifestyle and pivotal moments in history, the concert truly transported the audience through time.

The choir, comprising over 20 talented singing members ranging from sopranos to altos and tenors, was supported by dedicated narrators, directors, and an ensemble of exceptional musicians including a sensational saxophonist and pianist. Together, they delivered an unforgettable experience that resonated with the hearts of all in attendance.

The Plainfield Performing Arts Center came alive with approximately 100 eager attendees, united in their appreciation for African American hymns and the power of storytelling. Each performance was met with thunderous applause, highlighting the profound impact of the music and narratives shared on stage.

Among the standout performances were renditions of classics such as "A Change Is Gonna Come," "Siyahamba”, “Eyes On The Prize ("Hold On"), and "Oh Freedom," each delivered with unparalleled passion and soul-stirring resonance.

The Jubilation Choir Gospel Concert was not merely a musical event; it was a testament to the rich cultural heritage and indomitable spirit of the African American community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all involved in making this event a resounding success, and we eagerly anticipate future celebrations of music, history, and unity-

To Learn More about Jubilation Choir Visit: www.jubilationchoir.org

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Building Bridges: Union County Collaborates With Nonprofit Organizations to Strengthen Human Services Networks

February 29, 2024

On Monday, Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, along with Commissioners Alexander Mirabella, Sergio Granados, and Joseph Bodek, gathered for a constructive roundtable discussion alongside Deputy County Manager, Amy Wagner. The meeting focused on fostering collaboration with community nonprofit organizations, which was led by Union County Department of Human Services Director, Debbie-Ann Anderson, and her dedicated team.

“Building bridges between government officials and nonprofit organizations is crucial for the holistic development of our community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This partnership allows us to pool our expertise and resources to better serve the residents of Union County.”

The Union County Department of Human Services provides a wide range of support programs and social services, with its mission to empower all Union County individuals, families, and communities to achieve their highest level of self-sufficiency and quality of life using an accessible, inclusive, and comprehensive approach to service delivery and care.

The roundtable’s primary objective was to highlight the critical integration, impact, and interconnectedness within the human services delivery system throughout the county. Participants emphasized the importance of community partnerships in delivering essential services to positively impact Union County residents.

The collaboration demonstrates a commitment by Union County and local nonprofits to work together in addressing the diverse needs of the community. Through open dialogue, the leaders intend to streamline efforts, share resources, and enhance the overall effectiveness of human services programs.

“Through these discussions, the Union County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services are actively working towards creating a more cohesive and impactful approach,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Our shared commitment to guiding principles, and streamlining of services exemplifies a collective effort to enhance the well-being of our community.”

With a human-centered approach, these discussions focused on basic needs for residents with shared resources. Collaborations develop into building blocks that will streamline services moving individuals and families to self-sufficiency.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the upcoming events and resources available through the Union County Department of Human Services by visiting the official website at www.ucnj.org/dhs. Additionally, individuals seeking information or assistance can contact the Action Line at 908-677-5405.

Governor Murphy Highlights Record School Funding Increase in Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget Plan

February 29, 2024

Plan Would Fully Fund School Funding Formula for the First Time in State History

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy and Acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer today visited Charles and Anna Booker Elementary School in Plainfield to highlight $11.7 billion in funding to support equal access to education and opportunity for students across New Jersey in the Governor’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget plan.

“This year’s budget proposal builds on our work to empower students by ensuring they receive the high-quality education necessary to support life-long success,” said Governor Murphy. “Since day one of my Administration, I have remained committed to bolstering New Jersey’s school communities and working toward fully funding our best-in-the-nation public education system. Over the past seven years, we have made strategic investments – maintaining our momentum to fully fund New Jersey’s school funding formula for the first time in our State’s history — because investments in education don’t just benefit our children’s futures, they benefit us all.”

By adding $908 million in K-12 formula aid, the Governor is proposing to fully fund New Jersey’s school funding formula for the first time since it was established in 2009. This funding represents the single largest investment in the budget proposal.

“I am especially honored to be part of this historic budget,” said Kevin Dehmer, Acting Commissioner of the Department of Education. “For the first time since the School Funding Reform Act began in 2009, our school funding formula will be fully funded. Governor Murphy has never wavered from his promise to support our schools and he has ensured that our students and educators will have the resources they need heading into the next school year.”

District allocations of state aid for all New Jersey school districts may be found on the DOE’s School Finance webpage.

“This marks a milestone for education in New Jersey,” said Senate President Nick Scutari. “For the first time in history, we can fully fund the school aid formula. The state financing will give educators the support they need to provide a quality education for students throughout the state. It will help communities strengthen their schools and provide direct assistance to avoid property tax increases.”

“New Jersey has the best public school system in the country and we want to maintain top-quality education for our students,” said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “Last year, we passed, and the Governor signed, a budget with a record high amount for school aid, and we are on the right path for this year’s budget. Investing in children is an investment that pays off in the future. We’ve made it a priority to support our educators, and by delivering state-funded aid to schools, we are also providing relief to taxpayers.”

“Investing in our public schools is investing in the leaders of tomorrow,” said Assembly Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald. “Fully funding our schools is a promise kept to our families and will equip every student with the tools and resources they need to succeed.”

“By fully funding New Jersey’s schools we are not only investing in educational excellence, we are also helping to hold down local property taxes,” said Senator Paul Sarlo, chair of the Senate Budget Committee. “Because we managed state finances effectively in recent years we are able to devote resources to the successful completion of the multi-year plan to fully fund the school aid formula. This is good for the schools and the taxpayers.”

“Over the last few years, the legislature and Governor Murphy have increased our financial commitment to our children and their education,” said Assembly Budget Committee Chair Eliana Pintor Marin. “By providing additional funding for K-12 schools, we have given our school districts the means they need to support teachers and students.”

“New Jersey’s public school system is routinely recognized across the country, and the funding announced today will help ensure it remains nationally-ranked for years to come,” said Assemblywoman Pamela R. Lampitt, Chair of the Assembly Education Committee. “Working in partnership with Governor Murphy, we are poised to provide the necessary resources for New Jersey students to continue receiving top-notch educations.”

“This funding is a beacon of hope and paints a more promising future for Plainfield students, who have consistently enriched our classrooms through their diverse cultural backgrounds,” said Assemblywoman Linda Carter. “This funding will help us fulfill a promise to nurture a generation of well-rounded individuals who can lead our state toward a future marked by progress and triumph.”

“The increased allocation for Plainfield will help foster educational inclusivity and equity, particularly in a city where a significant portion of students hail from Latino and Black households,” said Assemblyman James Kennedy. “By fully funding our children’s public schools from grade school to graduation, we are not only setting them up for success but also establishing the foundation for the future prosperity of our state.”

The FY2025 budget plan marks the seventh and final year of the seven-year phase-in to fully funding New Jersey’s school funding formula. This transition was required in a 2018 law, S2, designed to address inequities that had resulted from years of overfunding some districts while failing to adequately meet the needs of other growing districts.

We stand at a pivotal moment in our journey toward educational excellence. The Governor's Fiscal Year 2025 budget proposal, by fully funding the school funding formula for the first time in State history, represents a historic investment in our children's future. This is more than just a budgetary commitment—it's a testament to our collective belief in the transformative power of education. For Plainfield, and indeed for communities across our great state, this ensures that every child has access to the quality education they deserve. Together, we are planting the seeds for a brighter, more prosperous future for all. Thank you, Governor Murphy," said Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp.

“Many New Jersey governors have promised to fully fund public schools and pensions. With this historic budget, Governor Murphy is the first one to actually keep those promises,” said NJEA President Sean M. Spiller. “Unlike his predecessors who kicked the can down the road for decades, Gov. Murphy had the foresight and fiscal discipline to make a plan and stick to it. Our schools are stronger, our pensions are more secure and our state’s economic outlook is brighter today than six years ago because Governor Murphy has chosen responsible budgeting over gimmicks and tricks. And he did it all while prioritizing the needs of students and working people, who are the greatest beneficiaries of this commendable budget.”

“AFT New Jersey believes that you invest in what you value, and we’re pleased to see that principle reflected in the fiscal year 2025 budget Governor Murphy presented to the Legislature. The $900 million set aside for PreK-12 public schools reflects our shared values, as does his commitment to working families by ensuring pensions are funded. Investments in the recruitment and retention of educators, as well as health care professionals, will improve the quality of life for all New Jersey residents. AFTNJ will continue to advocate for a more transparent, accountable higher education system that involves oversight so the limited funding will go to programs, resources and personnel that directly affect students. We’re always available to assist Governor Murphy and the Legislature in their quest to deliver on the promise to make New Jersey stronger and fairer for all who live and work here,” said Donna M. Chiera, President of AFT New Jersey President.

“I am grateful for this historic investment in public education and look forward to working with the Governor's Office, the Department of Education, and education policy makers to maximize the return on this investment for all of New Jersey's public school students and their families,” said Elisabeth Ginsburg, Executive Director of Garden State Coalition of Schools.

“Governor Murphy’s budget proposal reinforces his commitment to provide the needed resources for New Jersey educators to overcome student learning loss experienced during the COVID-19 crisis and maintain New Jersey’s standing as the leader among the nation’s state systems. His proposal reaches an historic milestone of fully funding the state’s formula for the first time since its inception in 2008,” said Richard Bozza, Executive Director of New Jersey Association of School Administrators.

“NJPSA commends Governor Murphy for honoring his commitment to our students, educators, and schools by reaching the longstanding goal of fully funding the school-funding formula. It has been a long process and a multi-year commitment by Governor Murphy to fully support our schools where it counts, in our local budgets. As the final year of the funding formula is implemented, our eyes must turn towards the next step to ensure that our students’ post-pandemic needs are addressed. Nonetheless, at this moment in time, it is so encouraging to see the Governor's resounding commitment to New Jersey's schools, students, and educators in his FY2025 budget,” said Karen Bingert, Executive Director of New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association.

“NJASBO is pleased that the Governor has made school and pension funding his top priorities. We will anxiously await the full budget details to see how the new funds are allocated to our member districts throughout the state. We appreciate the acknowledgement of the fiscal strains our schools are experiencing due to general inflationary pressures, health benefit, special education, mental health, technology and transportation costs, tax levy caps and the expansion of the Governor’s preschool initiative,” said Sue Young, Executive Director of New Jersey School Association of School Business Officials.

“The Governor’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2025 includes an additional $900 million for school funding and reaches the landmark goal of fully funding schools under the SFRA. The proposal includes support for critically important initiatives such as pre-K programs, school meals, literacy screening tools and teacher recruitment measures. Governor Murphy has emphasized the importance of investing in the education of our children and supports that goal with his proposed budget. Recognizing that not all districts will see increases in state aid, we appreciate that the Administration plans to review the funding formula upon completion of this transition to full SFRA funding, which we believe is essential to ensuring all districts and students get the resources they need to thrive moving forward,” said Timothy Purnell, Executive Director of New Jersey School Boards Association.

"As part of our resolution, New Jersey Parent Teacher Association (NJPTA) advocates for adequate funding for public education; and support adequate and full funding for New Jersey’s public schools. NJPTA appreciates Governor Murphy’s support for our students. His announcement to fully fund the school-funding formula in his fiscal year 2025 budget will allow districts to improve school infrastructure which will enhance our student’s health and education. NJPTA looks forward to seeing additional funding and resources needed to make our schools a safe and inclusive environment,” said Sharon Roseboro, President of New Jersey PTA.

“The New Jersey Community Schools Coalition enthusiastically supports Governor Murphy’s proposal to fully fund the State’s school funding formula. We look forward to working alongside the Governor and State Legislature to expand innovative approaches like community schools in order to ensure increased equity and help all our children overcome out-of-school barriers that continue to hold many of them back from reaching their full potential,” said Dr. Gregory Stankiewicz, Statewide Coordinator of NJ Community Schools Coalition.

"Save Our Schools NJ applauds Governor Murphy for his proposal to fully fund the New Jersey school funding formula. We look forward to working with the Governor and the Legislature to ensure that every student in New Jersey has access to an equitable and high-quality education,” said Julie Larrea Borst, Executive Director of Save Our Schools.

“For 45 years, the Center for Supportive Schools (CSS) has partnered with educators to create schools where students want to be and where they can thrive. And in this moment, we see Governor Murphy’s historic investment as an imperative to advancing educational equity and opportunity for our students, educators, leaders, and schools. As we envision a future where all students are thriving in every school, and preparing for the rigors of college, career, and otherwise, we recognize and amplify the power of partnership throughout the state to accelerate achievement, equity, opportunity, and joy among our stakeholders and constituents within our schools. It is a future that CSS envisions today and seeks to contribute to alongside leaders and partners throughout New Jersey,” said Jonathan D. Mathis, PhD, CEO, Center for Supportive Schools (CSS).

“We wholeheartedly support Governor Murphy's commitment to fully funding the school formula,” said Wendy Liscow Executive Director of Arts Ed NJ. “With adequate funding, schools serving students across all demographics and socioeconomic circumstances, will be able to address post-Covid arts education cuts to course offerings, teachers, and resources. Strong arts programs are essential to a well-rounded education that not only cultivates artistic talents but also builds invaluable life-skills, including problem-solving, collaboration, empathy, and self-expression—all critical to the future vibrancy of our state.”

“SPAN applauds the Governor's commitment to fully fund SFRA and welcomes this positive step towards achieving equitable education for all students in our state. We are encouraged by the expansion of the school meals program, recognizing the critical role nutrition plays in ensuring students are ready to learn. Additionally, the allocation of resources towards addressing the recruitment and retention of educators is a crucial investment in the future of our education system. We look forward to collaborating with the Administration on conversations over resources for the SDA. SPAN remains dedicated to working alongside policymakers and stakeholders to ensure that our education system provides all students, regardless of their background or abilities, with equitable access, opportunity, and the support they need to succeed and to thrive,” said Carolyn Hayer, Executive Director of SPAN Parent Advocacy Network.

READOUT: White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention Hosts Briefing on Mental Health with Department of Education and HBCUs

February 29, 2024

Washington, D.C. - On February 29, the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) and the Department of Education hosted a briefing with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) on gun violence prevention and the importance of mental health support for victims of gun violence. The briefing was led by OGVP Deputy Director Gregory Jackson and Jessica Gall, Special Assistant for the Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development at the Department of Education.

Students across the country are reeling from the epidemic of gun violence, which has taken the lives of their family members, friends, and classmates. That’s why President Biden and the entire Biden-Harris Administration are focused on providing resources and support for those affected by the trauma of gun violence. The President’s Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), which is the most significant gun safety legislation in the last 30 years, set forth crucial mental health investments to ensure that those experiencing grief and trauma resulting from gun violence have access to high-quality mental health services, and supports to make our schools safer and expand community violence interventions.

During the mental health briefing, OGVP uplifted two recent grant announcements from the Department of Education which provide funding to increase school-based mental health services.

Specifically, the School-Based Mental Health Services Grant Program provides grants to state and local educational institutions to increase the number of credentialed mental health services providers for students in need, while the Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant Program provides competitive grants to support the training of school-based mental health service providers.

Thanks to BSCA, the Department of Education has awarded more than $280 million in funding to bolster the pipeline of mental health professionals serving in schools and expand school-based mental health services and supports. These critical investments have funded the hiring or training of an additional 14,000 school-based mental health professionals—a 35% increase nationwide.

These efforts are part of the President’s whole-of-government approach to prevent crime, promote public safety, and end the epidemic of gun violence tearing apart communities nationwide. Last month, the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Justice, also announced new executive actions to help promote safe storage of firearms that implement President Biden’s Executive Order on promoting safe gun storage, which has been shown to dramatically reduce children’s risk of self-inflicted harm and unintentional shootings.

The President’s American Rescue Plan also helped states and over one thousand cities, towns, and counties across the country to invest over $15 billion in public safety and violence prevention. Communities have invested those funds to support additional police officers, expand community violence intervention, add crisis responders, and more. And in addition to key investments for schools to expand mental health services and violence intervention programs, BSCA provides $250 million in funding for community-based violence prevention initiatives.

We are already seeing the positive impacts of the President’s strategy to prevent and reduce crime and gun violence nationwide. According to 2023 FBI data, there has been a significant drop in crime – including one of the largest yearly declines in homicides ever. By comparison, during the final year of the prior administration in 2020, the United States saw the largest increase in murders ever recorded. We have also seen key provisions created by the BCSA begin to deliver results in making communities safer against gun violence, including enhanced background check provisions that have enabled the Department of Justice to stop more than 600 illegal gun purchases by prohibited persons under 21 years old, and the first ever federal gun trafficking and straw purchasing law.

The President knows more can and must be done, which is why OGVP, overseen by Vice President Kamala Harris, continues to implement BSCA and identify executive orders to save lives, while also announcing new initiatives to encourage action at the state and local level. This past December, the Vice President convened 100 state legislators at the White House to launch the Biden-Harris Administration’s Safer States Initiative, providing states with additional tools and the support they need to reduce gun violence—and we have already seen states begin to answer the call and implement these critical measures. And earlier this week, Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, OGVP, and the Department of Labor DOL, hosted a roundtable on improving job opportunities for communities affected by gun violence and to discuss the connection between workforce development and violence intervention and prevention.

These are just a few examples of the progress that is being made under the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris to protect our communities, schools, and children, and end the epidemic of gun violence that is leaving empty seats at dinner tables across the country.

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