Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy has signed the Freedom to Read Act into law, a measure aimed at preventing arbitrary book bans and safeguarding access to age-appropriate materials in New Jersey schools and public libraries. The signing took place at Princeton Public Library with advocates for intellectual freedom and legislative sponsors present.

Governor Murphy stated, "The Freedom to Read Act cements New Jersey’s role on the forefront of preventing book bans and protecting the intellectual freedom of our educators and students."

Acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer highlighted the importance of diverse ideas in education: “Part of our responsibility as educators and education policymakers is to empower students by providing access to diverse ideas, knowledge, and perspectives.”

Jennifer R. Nelson, New Jersey State Librarian, emphasized local needs: “The Freedom to Read Act exemplifies New Jersey’s commitment to providing residents with access to high-quality library materials, while also acknowledging that the needs of local communities and schools differ.”

The legislation mandates policies for material curation and removal by school boards and library governing bodies. It protects library staff from legal actions related to compliance with this law. Boards are prohibited from excluding books based on origin or views unless restricting developmentally inappropriate content.

Senate President Nick Scutari praised the act's protection against censorship: “This law will help New Jersey libraries guard against politically-inspired censorship."

Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin noted its democratic importance: “The freedom to read is essential for a healthy democracy."

Senator Andrew Zwicker spoke on inclusivity: “Today, New Jersey stands firmly in defense of the freedom to read.”

Assemblywoman Mitchelle Drulis clarified parental rights: "This bill does not remove parental rights; instead, it provides a structured process for parents."

Assemblywoman Shavonda E. Sumter stressed equitable access: "We must protect this right and ensure equitable access to diverse perspectives."

Additional support came from various organizations including Garden State Equality's Christian Fuscarino who remarked on censorship resistance: “In New Jersey, censorship loses, and freedom wins.”

Brett Bonfield from the New Jersey Library Association expressed gratitude for continued reading freedoms.

Overall support was echoed by numerous educational leaders emphasizing intellectual growth through free access to literature.