The resolution urges the Governor and Legislature of New Jersey to take action in supporting the education of social workers by establishing initiatives such as scholarships and loan redemption programs. It highlights the vital role social workers play in enhancing the well-being of New Jersey residents, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they provided essential behavioral health services. However, the resolution points out the significant financial burden of educational debt faced by social work graduates, with a high percentage of them carrying substantial loan debt, which is exacerbated by the relatively low median salary of social workers.

To address these challenges, the resolution emphasizes the need for the state to invest in the education of future social workers to ensure a qualified workforce. It calls for collaborative efforts between the Governor and the Legislature to create financial support systems that would encourage students to pursue degrees in social work, thereby strengthening the social safety net in New Jersey and ensuring that the state can continue to provide necessary services to its communities.