New Jersey stands up for intellectual freedom! The Freedom to Read Act was recently signed into law by Governor Murphy to ensure that schools and libraries remain spaces for diverse ideas, protecting against book bans that limit access to knowledge.

In our first episode of Jersey Rules, we sit down with bill sponsor Assemblywoman Mitchelle Drulis and Martha Hickson, a former high school librarian and advocate for the Freedom to Read Act, to discuss the power of books, the fight for free expression, and why this law matters for New Jersey and beyond.

In this episode, we explore the origins of the bill, policymaking in today’s climate, and what this means for educators, students, and readers across the state. Plus, Assemblywoman Drulis and Ms. Hickson share their personal connections to books and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Find out more about this legislation at assemblydems.com.

📚 Tune in to hear why the right to read is worth fighting for.

*Episode 1 was recorded in January, 2025.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit assemblydems.substack.com