NEPTUNE TOWNSHIP - State Senator Vin Gopal joined Assembly Members Eric Houghtaling and Joann Downey in announcing two state grants to the Affordable Housing Alliance Inc. of Monmouth County.

OCEAN TOWNSHIP - For nearly 18 years, members of the United States military could be dishonorably discharged if they were found to be gay, lesbian, or bisexual under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT), an official military policy that forced thousands of patriotic Americans out of the military, depriving them of a chance to serve their country and their hard-earned benefits. Today, Senator Vin Gopal and Assembly Members Joann Downey and Eric Houghtaling announced the introduction of new state legislation restoring these benefits for LGBTQ veterans discharged under DADT.

ASBURY PARK - In honor of Women’s History Month, Senator Vin Gopal will be hosting a “Women in Public Service” reception honoring municipal and state women leaders of New Jersey’s 11th District on Monday, March 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Parlor Gallery, located at 717 Cookman Avenue in Asbury Park.

OCEAN TOWNSHIP - Senator Vin Gopal and Assembly Members Eric Houghtaling and Joann Downey were pleased to see that Governor Murphy is supporting their well-publicized plan for stabilization aid to school districts facing a decrease in state funding due to declining enrollment during his annual budget address this Tuesday. 

OCEAN TOWNSHIP - Senator Vin Gopal joined Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling and Assemblywoman Joann Downey in announcing a $25,000 award to Interfaith Neighbors in Asbury Park from the state Meals On Wheels program.

OCEAN TOWNSHIP - In response to reports of potential program cuts for Monmouth County school districts, Senator Vin Gopal is calling on Governor Murphy and the state legislature to dedicate new corporate tax revenues to New Jersey public schools, protecting student services and reducing the burden on local property taxpayers.

ASBURY PARK - Monmouth County residents who are having difficulty paying their utility bills can get help on Wednesday, March 4 between 4 and 7 p.m. at the Salvation Army office located in Asbury Park at 605 Asbury Avenue.

TRENTON - A bill introduced by Senator Vin Gopal aiming to help prevent rising property taxes by promoting shared services between towns and school districts was approved by the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee this Thursday.

OCEAN TOWNSHIP - The Ocean Township District Office of State Senator Vin Gopal and Assembly Members Eric Houghtaling and Joann Downey is relocating from its previous address of 802 West Park Avenue, Suite 221. The legislators’ new Ocean Township District Office is located in the rear building of the same office complex at 802 West Park Avenue, Building 3, 2nd Floor, Suite 302.

OCEAN TOWNSHIP - Aiming to support students with disabilities who receive Medicaid to support the cost of independent living, Senator Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth) joined Assembly Human Services Chairwoman Joann Downey (D-Monmouth) and Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling (D-Monmouth) to introduce a new package of legislation aiming to increase care hours and accommodations for New Jersey residents with disabilities. The legislation, which was developed in response to challenges faced by college student Anna Landre in her efforts to obtain Medicaid assistance for her disability, would provide additional support for Garden State residents looking to study at institutions of higher education.

OCEAN TOWNSHIP - A new charity drive is asking Monmouth County residents to donate hygiene products, toiletries, and personal care products - basic necessities that are in high demand at local women’s shelters.

MONMOUTH COUNTY - Municipal programs in Long Branch, Red Bank, and Eatontown, as well as two county programs making energy utility bills affordable for low-income households, will be receiving more than $500,000 in combined funding through state-approved grants, announced Senator Vin Gopal and Assembly Members Eric Houghtaling (D-Neptune) and Joann Downey (D-Freehold) today.

OCEAN TOWNSHIP - Legislation co-sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal to increase State funding for cultural projects, historical heritage programs, and tourism advertisement and promotion was signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy this Wednesday.