TZG’s Ken Murphy & NJ 211 Testify in Favor of A-5135 to Strengthen Senior Support in New Jersey
On Thursday, February 13, 2025, TZG’s Vice President Ken Murphy testified before the Assembly Aging and Human Services Committee alongside our client, NJ 211, in support of A-5135.
NJ 211 is a nonprofit dedicated to connecting NJ residents with live assistance 24/7. A-5135 is sponsored by Assemblywoman Shanique Speight (D-29) and takes a critical step toward expanding proactive outreach, emergency wellness check-ins and access to key state programs for NJ seniors. With aging-related challenges on the rise, this legislation ensures that those who need support the most can access it more efficiently.
What Is A-5135?
This bill would establish a voluntary central registry for NJ seniors, helping them stay connected to vital services, receive emergency wellness checks and access critical state programs. Managed by the Division of Aging Services, this registry ensures proactive outreach, making it easier for seniors to access the support they need.
What This Means for NJ Seniors
By reaching out proactively—rather than leaving seniors to navigate complex systems alone—this registry will streamline access to critical resources and ensure no one is left behind. NJ 211 CEO Melissa Acree highlighted the urgency of this initiative: “We (NJ 211) handle approximately 33,000 calls for help a month. 20% of our callers are seniors seeking help with utility bills, housing, and other basic needs. These are critical, often time-sensitive requests, and having a central registry will allow for more efficient and proactive outreach.”
Read or view Melissa’s full testimony below:
https://www.thezitagroupnj.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Testimony-in-Support-of-Bill-A5135.pdf
A-5135 was referred to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for further consideration.
About The Zita Group
The Zita Group is a woman-owned government and public affairs firm, both founded and led by Patrizia “Trish” Zita. Our bipartisan, experienced team of strategic consultants is widely respected by elected, appointed and government officials of both parties across New Jersey’s political landscape. We provide our clients unique insights into the decision-making process at the highest levels. We bring to bear credible working relationships with executive branch officials, legislators, and staff. Our team’s effectiveness has been demonstrated again and again by the results we achieve for our clients.
