Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation today that increases the number of respite care service hours funded through the Division of the Children’s System of Care in the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. The bill (S2491/A3412) raises the available hours from 60 to 90 over a 90-day period, with funding provided by the Department.
“As many know, even on the best days, being a parent is a full-time job; however, for those who have to step into the role of caregiver for their children, it is especially demanding, even for the strongest and most resilient among us,” said Governor Murphy. “By increasing the number of respite care service hours funded through the Department of Children and Families, we are supporting caregivers across the Garden State.”
Christine Norbut Beyer, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, emphasized the importance of respite care. “Respite care is an invaluable safety net for caregivers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, affording them the opportunity to focus on other responsibilities, other children, or simply unplug and recharge, secure in the knowledge that their children are being properly cared for,” she said. “Respite provides caregivers with a much-needed break and reduces familial stress, caregiver fatigue and burnout. The Department of Children and Families is proud to extend these services for families in need at no cost to them.”
Respite care workers provide temporary, short-term care for eligible children on behalf of caregivers during emergencies or intermittently to relieve daily stresses.
Senator Kristin Corrado highlighted how this legislation benefits both families and professionals. “Increasing the number of hours and dedicating funds for those that take care of our loved ones not only helps our families with much-needed assistance but will also attract highly qualified people to the profession. Additionally, this bill will help relieve daily stresses and demands of caring for a child with a functional impairment to give everyone involved peace of mind they deserve,” she stated.
Assemblyman Chris Tully pointed out that this legislation would significantly improve lives within the I/DD community by providing increased access to quality respite care. “Parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities depend on respite care services to take care of other family members, grocery shop, and see their own doctors — this bill helps them fulfill those responsibilities without sacrificing their children’s care,” he noted.
Assemblywoman Lisa Swain added that families caring for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities truly deserve more time to manage household and personal responsibilities without worrying about their children's safety. “This bill, now law, will provide a substantial increase in quality of life for New Jerseyans who need it most,” she said.
The Fiscal Year 2025 State Budget includes $7.3 million to increase funding for respite care hours.
