Reynolds-Jackson Joins the New Jersey Assembly

Takes Oath Representing 15^th District in Mercer and Hunterdon Counties

Vows to Fight for Property Tax Relief, Fully Funded Schools, Environmental Protection & Affordable Housing

(TRENTON) – Vowing to fight for property tax relief, education funding, environmental protection and affordable housing, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson was sworn into the New Jersey General Assembly on Thursday representing the 15^th Legislative District in Mercer and Hunterdon counties.

Reynolds-Jackson was most recently a Trenton city councilwoman for eight years, and promised to use her skills and experience to fight for her constituents in the Assembly. She spent much of her time on Trenton City Council fighting Gov. Christie’s cuts to the state’s capital city.

“I know the challenges facing our state and its communities,” Reynolds-Jackson said. “I plan to bring fresh and creative approaches to the issues that impact urban, suburban and rural New Jersey, and I’m excited to listen to and learn from constituents, colleagues, advocates and all the voices that contribute to our democracy. I’m excited and ready to hit the ground running.”

Reynolds-Jackson said property tax relief, fully funding public schools in every district, protecting the environment and affordable housing were among her top priorities.

Reynolds-Jackson said she wants to ensure, for instance, that corporate tax credits truly create jobs and benefit the community without hurting property taxpayers. She said she backs fully funding schools throughout the state, and plans to advocate for protecting open space, cleaning up toxic waste and addressing unhealthy air and water quality.

Reynolds-Jackson recently worked at the state Department of Community Affairs as a program development housing specialist, and said she wants to use that experience in the Legislature.

“Everyone should have the opportunity to buy a home and send their children to public schools in any of our towns,” she said.

Reynolds-Jackson earned her sociology degree from Trenton State College, and earned a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University. She also graduated from Thomas Edison State College’s Leadership Trenton Program in 2010.

“I am going to be a committed, passionate and strong voice for the 15th Legislative district,” Reynolds-Jackson said. “It’s great honor to join the Assembly, and I stand ready to fight each and every day for the people of Mercer and Hunterdon counties. I look forward to getting to work.”