Requires members, officers, and employees of Legislature to undergo implicit bias and cultural competency training.
Impact
If enacted, A2170 would establish a framework for both initial and ongoing training requirements within the Legislative Branch. Members and staff are required to complete an online tutorial by April 1 of every even-numbered year, as well as participate in annual training sessions. The completion of these trainings would be verified and submitted to the Legislative Counsel, ensuring that these certifications become public information. The bill's passing would help foster a workplace culture that values cultural sensitivity and inclusivity.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2170, sponsored by Assemblywoman Shanique Speight, mandates that all members, officers, and employees of the New Jersey Legislature undergo implicit bias and cultural competency training. The intent of the bill is to promote awareness of personal biases and improve understanding and interaction between individuals from different cultural backgrounds. This requirement aims to enhance the quality of legislative work and ensure that the laws being created account for the diverse population of the state.
Contention
While A2170 encourages training to combat implicit biases and improve cultural competency, it may face pushback from those who see mandatory training as unnecessary or as an infringement on personal beliefs. Supporters argue that such training is crucial in creating equitable laws and policies, while opponents could raise concerns about the implications of being required to participate in such programs, questioning the effectiveness of training in addressing deep-seated biases.
Implementation
The legislation would take effect on January 1 following its enactment, providing time for the Legislature to prepare for the implementation of the required training programs. As the bill stipulates the necessity for an online tutorial and annual training, it emphasizes the continuous nature of education regarding bias and cultural competencies, reflecting a commitment to improving legislative operations and interactions with a diverse populace.
Requires state employees and the governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, comptroller, and members of the legislature attend annual implicit bias training provided by the legislative ethics commission.