New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill ACR70

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing Legislature to extend civil service hiring preference to veterans who did not serve in time of war.

Impact

The proposed amendment to Article VII, Section I, paragraph 2 of the New Jersey Constitution stands to significantly alter the criteria that dictate civil service appointments and promotions. By allowing the legislature to extend hiring preferences beyond wartime veterans to include those who served in peacetime, ACR70 could enhance job accessibility for a larger pool of candidates, thereby supporting the integration of veterans into civil service roles. This shift reflects a growing understanding and appreciation for the sacrifices made by all individuals who have served in the military, irrespective of whether their service coincided with declared conflicts.

Summary

ACR70, also known as the Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 70, proposes an important amendment to the New Jersey Constitution regarding civil service hiring practices. The bill aims to extend hiring preferences in civil service positions to veterans who did not serve during wartime. Currently, only those veterans who served in times of war are granted such preferences, and ACR70 seeks to broaden this definition to encompass all veterans, regardless of their service timeline. This proposal emphasizes the state's recognition of the contributions made by all veterans and aims to improve their employment opportunities within state and local governments.

Contention

Debate may arise regarding the implications of such a change, primarily surrounding concerns of meritocracy in civil service hiring. Proponents of the amendment argue that extending this preference is a just recognition of veterans' service, while opponents may question whether it could lead to preferential treatment that undermines the merit-based system currently in place. The resolution mandates that any changes made would still require adherence to competitive examination standards for civil service applications, suggesting a balance between preferential treatment and fair hiring practices.

Companion Bills

NJ ACR98

Carry Over Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing Legislature to extend civil service hiring preference to veterans who did not serve in time of war.

NJ SCR107

Carry Over Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing Legislature to extend civil service hiring preference to veterans who did not serve in time of war.

NJ SCR95

Same As Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing Legislature to extend civil service hiring preference to veterans who did not serve in time of war.

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