This bill establishes the New Jersey Council on Responsible Fatherhood within the Department of Children and Families, consisting of 23 members, including legislative representatives, state commissioners, and public members with relevant expertise. The council's primary purpose is to identify the needs and priorities of fatherhood programs in the state, promote parental involvement in children's lives, and support the contributions of both parents to family units. The council is tasked with developing and implementing a Responsible Fatherhood Initiative, serving as a resource center for fatherhood programs, reviewing existing state and community programs, and providing grants to enhance fatherhood initiatives.
Additionally, the bill creates a nonlapsing "Responsible Fatherhood Fund" within the Department of the Treasury to support the council's activities, funded by grants from various sources. The initiative aims to raise public awareness about fatherhood responsibilities, prepare men for fatherhood, and improve relationships between fathers and their children. The council is required to report annually to the Governor and the Legislature on its activities and recommendations for improving state programs related to responsible fatherhood.