McClellan Introduces Legislation Inspired by Michael Kidd-Gilchrist’s Advocacy, Visits Wildwood Schools to Discuss Perseverance and Public Service

Assemblyman Erik Simonsen calls for continued search efforts and community support for Matthew Oliver, a South Jersey fisherman missing in the Delaware Bay near Gandy’s Beach.

The assemblymen noted they have consistently opposed state budgets during their time in office, arguing that they have relied on unsustainable spending increases without delivering meaningful relief for taxpayers. They warned that if the same pattern continues during this year’s negotiations, the final budget could grow even larger before it is adopted.

Senator Michael Testa Jr., Assemblymen Erik Simonsen and Antwan McClellan proudly recognize Women in Construction Week, honoring the skilled tradeswomen who are strengthening New Jersey’s workforce, building critical infrastructure, and serving as leaders within the construction industry.

Ahead of the New Jersey’s March 10 budget address, lawmakers call on Governor Sherrill and Statehouse Democrats to match calls for restraint with fiscally responsible action.

“I recently had the opportunity to tour Millville’s Star Academy firsthand, and what I saw was truly impressive. The program is delivering real results - students are actively engaged in STEM learning, gaining hands-on experience in science and technology, and building skills that will carry them into high school and beyond,” Simonsen added.

“The closest hospital providing comprehensive maternity care for women is nearly 50 miles away for some Cape May County residents. This limited access to health care plays a significant role in the health outcomes of South Jersey moms and babies,” McClellan said.

“A telehealth program for pregnant patients on Medicaid who are living in medically underserved communities like the southern shore region would give more moms the ability to receive critical prenatal care.”

“Our children should never have to wonder whether traffic will stop when their bus lights are flashing,” Simonsen said. “When the bus stops, you stop. It’s that simple.”

Assemblymen Simonsen and McClellan condemn New Jersey’s ICE tracking portal, warning it endangers law enforcement and increases community tensions.

McClellan is sponsoring Assembly Bill A1460, legislation that would dedicate 100 percent of hotel and motel occupancy fee revenues to arts, historical heritage, and tourism promotion across New Jersey, ensuring that local communities, particularly shore and tourism driven regions like Cape May County, see real returns from the visitors they attract. The legislation is co sponsored by Assemblyman Erik K. Simonsen and is currently pending before the Legislature.

Assemblyman Erik K. Simonsen (R-Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland) is renewing his call for passage of legislation to strengthen cannabis education in New Jersey public schools as new data shows rising use and addiction among teenagers nationwide.

No family should ever be left wondering if earlier access to care could have changed everything. Michelles Law ensures medical decisions are made by doctors and patients not insurance rules, explained Assemblyman McClellan.

On the first day of the new legislative session, Assemblymen Simonsen and McClellan reintroduce legislation to strengthen Megan’s Law, close loopholes for sex offenders, and protect New Jersey families and communities.

New Jersey Assemblymen warn ranked choice voting is a risky experiment that confuses voters, delays results, and weakens election integrity.

“Today I voted no on the Governor-Elect’s request for an additional $250,000 in taxpayer funds for her transition. The state has already appropriated $400,000 for these costs, bringing the total transition budget to $625,000 under this bill. It’s concerning that before even being sworn in, the Governor-Elect is asking taxpayers for even more money. At a time when families are being asked to do more with less, increasing government spending when substantial funding already exists is simply not responsible. Taxpayers deserve accountability and fiscal discipline — not an expanded transition budget.”

Athletics. Band. After school clubs. In every school these programs keep kids connected, motivated, and on track to graduate. Assembly Bill 3323 would have included pay for extracurricular duties as part of retirement compensation through the Teachers’ Pension and Annuity Fund. This is not a new money issue. It is about counting pay that already exists toward retirement, so our mentors, coaches, band directors, choir leaders, and club sponsors stay in our schools and continue to inspire students.

Governor signs Assemblyman Erik Simonsen’s bill (A1446) modernizing New Jersey’s Athletic Training Licensure Act to expand trainer roles, update education standards, and recognize athletic trainers as vital healthcare professionals beyond sports. Photo credits (Press of Atlantic City)