Welcome Back to the Social Work Policy Network!
Happy Fall Semester, everyone!
Whether you're a returning subscriber or joining us for the first time, we're so excited to welcome you to another year with the Rutgers School of Social Work Policy Network!
The Social Work Policy Network looks forward to keeping you informed and connected through weekly updates on social policy, current events, community resources, and opportunities for engagement. Together, we hope to continue encouraging meaningful conversations about the issues shaping our communities and the social work profession.
Here's to a great year filled with learning, growth, new opportunities, and positive change. We're so glad you're here!
Thank you for your continued support of the Social Work Policy Network!
We are now on Substack as @russwsocialworkpolicynetwork. Download the app.
Please follow us, we will be posting the Newsletters there too!
Regional Policy News Highlights
NJ school segregation case back in court as judges weigh potential constitutional violation - New Jersey Monitor
"Every day that goes by where there’s no remedy for this is tragic." - Laurence Lustberg, attorney for the plaintiffs
Civil rights attorneys returned to court this week in a long-running case challenging racial segregation in New Jersey's public schools. The lawsuit argues that New Jersey's school assignment system perpetuates racial segregation and violates the state Constitution. The case has particular implications for Newark and surrounding Essex County communities, where predominantly Black and Latino school districts border wealthier, majority-white districts. A ruling could eventually require the state to take additional action to address school segregation.
Expanding Holistic Public Defense Would Make New Jersey Safer and Save at Least $12.7 Million a Year - New Jersey Policy Perspective
“Holistic defense lets them do more than handle the court case. It connects people to housing, treatment, and jobs, which helps keep them out of jail and keeps families together.” - Marleina Ubel, New Jersey Policy Perspective
New Jersey Policy Perspective is calling for the expansion of holistic public defense across the state. The approach connects people involved in the legal system with social workers and community resources to address issues such as housing, employment, and substance use. The proposal highlights how social services can be incorporated into public defense to improve outcomes for individuals and communities.
New Jersey’s high rents undermine efforts to reduce poverty - Jersey Vindicator
“Addiction is a health condition, and the research is clear that treatment is much more effective than incarceration.” - Sen. Andrew Zwicker, D-Middlesex
New Jersey’s high housing costs are making it increasingly difficult for low-income families to achieve financial stability. New research highlights how rising rents can offset gains from programs such as food assistance, leaving families with fewer affordable housing options. The issue demonstrates the connection between housing policy, poverty, and the economic well-being of New Jersey families.
Upcoming Events
General Election: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Early voting: Saturday, October 24, 2026 - Sunday, November 1, 2026
Voter Registration Deadline: Tuesday, October 13, 2026 (Passed)
Voter Registration Deadline: Tuesday, October 27 ,2026 (by mail)
Register to vote
Resources
The general election provides an opportunity for eligible voters to participate in decisions that shape policies affecting individuals, families, and communities. Issues such as healthcare access, affordable housing, education, economic security, and social services are influenced by elected representatives at local, state, and federal levels. Civic participation allows community members to learn about candidates and policy proposals, consider how decisions may affect their communities, and make informed choices.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics emphasizes the importance of informed public participation in shaping social policies and institutions. By sharing accessible, nonpartisan voting information, social workers can support civic engagement while respecting each individual's right to make independent decisions.
Alumni Conversation | Therapy Across the Party Lines: Navigating Sociopolitical Differences in Social Work Practice
Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
Register for the event
"This presentation will explore features of political polarization and sociopolitical identity while considering implications for (clinical) social work practice. Theory and evidence-based practice are presented to help guide social workers who engage politically diverse populations. Expect to learn how to overcome common challenges and build a cross-partisan therapeutic alliance."
Presented by Jeremy Brinsdon, DSW
Attendees will receive 1 free Social/Cultural Competence CE
Beyond Awareness: Student Voices Driving Disability Inclusion
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m
Register for the event
Join Rutgers student leaders for a discussion on disability inclusion, accessibility, and the work being done to break down barriers across campus and the broader community. The event is free and open to the Rutgers community and general public.
National Policy News Highlights
America’s Empty Bedrooms Are Up for Grabs - Vox
"My house is awesome; I pay $500 less a month than I would if I were renting [a place of my own] without roommates." - Todd Waller, PadSplit resident and social worker
The article examines the renewed interest in shared housing as an affordable housing option. Policymakers are considering ways to make it easier for people to rent unused rooms and convert existing spaces into housing. The issue connects housing affordability, homelessness, and local zoning policy.
Ballot Measures Will Impact LGBTQ+ Rights in 7 States This Election - Truthout
“Medical decisions belong in the exam room.” - Brigitta Robinson, President of the Colorado Medical Society
Voters in seven states will consider ballot measures affecting LGBTQ+ rights during the upcoming midterm elections. Several proposals focus on transgender students’ participation in school sports, gender-affirming care, and LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination protections. The measures demonstrate how LGBTQ+ policy continues to be shaped through both legislation and direct voter participation.
Midterm Election Update: Medicaid Changes - KFF
"Major federal changes to Medicaid eligibility and financing from the 2025 reconciliation law are coming." - KFF
New federal Medicaid requirements are expected to affect millions of enrollees beginning as early as 2027. Changes include new work requirements and additional eligibility restrictions that could cause some people to lose coverage. With Medicaid affecting access to health care and other social services, the changes make health policy an important issue in the 2026 midterm elections
Professional Opportunities
Social Worker/MSW Relief (Cherry Hill) - (Camden County, Gloucester County)
School Social Worker - (Gloucester City, NJ)
Hospital Social Worker - (Piscataway, NJ)
Highlight of the Week
Rutgers Selected to Lead New Jersey Social Media Research Center
Rutgers University has been selected to lead a new New Jersey Social Media Research Center, which will examine how social media affects young people’s mental and physical health. The center will also develop resources for families and schools and help inform New Jersey policies surrounding online safety.
The Social Work Policy Network's e-newsletter is created by:
Jaylynn Silva, MSW Graduate Student, Network Research Assistant
Dr. Lenna Nepomnyaschy, RU Professor, Network Founder
