Author

Dana DiFilippo

Dana DiFilippo

Dana DiFilippo comes to the New Jersey Monitor from WHYY, Philadelphia’s NPR station, and the Philadelphia Daily News, a paper known for exposing corruption and holding public officials accountable. Prior to that, she worked at newspapers in Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, and suburban Philadelphia and has freelanced for various local and national magazines, newspapers and websites. She lives in Central Jersey with her husband, a photojournalist, and their two children. You can reach her at [email protected].

New Jersey Monitor is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.

New Jersey’s top court rejects challenge of witness tampering law

By: - January 18, 2024

At issue is whether a carjacking suspect's letter to a victim was free speech or witness tampering.

After surprise upset, Assembly newcomer aims to be a voice for those who struggle

By: - January 16, 2024

New Assemblywoman Andrea Katz toppled GOP incumbent Brandon Umba in a surprise upset. She hopes to bring a fresh voice to the Legislature.

Newark activist embraces ‘Dr. Martin Luther King’s agenda’ in U.S. Senate bid

By: - January 15, 2024

Longtime social justice activist Larry Hamm said he would implement "a progressive agenda" if he wins his bid for U.S. Senate.

Supporters vow to revive some of the 10K bills now dead in Trenton

By: , and - January 11, 2024

The Legislature sent Gov. Phil Murphy a slew of bills this week, but a number of high-profile measures died when its last session ended Tuesday.

Family of mother who fatally overdosed in Monmouth jail sues for wrongful death

By: - January 11, 2024

A new federal lawsuit accuses Monmouth County correctional officials of ignoring a thriving, deadly drug trade behind bars.

Dozens of new lawmakers sworn in as a new legislative session starts

By: and - January 9, 2024

More than a quarter of the lawmakers are new to the Statehouse, and six members moved from the Assembly to the state Senate. 

Gov. Murphy urges action on affordable housing, medical debt relief in annual address

By: and - January 9, 2024

Gov. Murphy said he wants the state to buy residents' medical debt, bar out-of-pocket costs for abortion, and take the lead on artificial intelligence during his annual State of the State address Tuesday.

Bill targeting underage alcohol possession hits snag, but still expected to become law

By: - January 9, 2024

The bill would have allowed police to fine anyone under 21 caught with booze $50 and issue a complaint summons.

Governor Murphy vetoes bill to battle invasive plant species in New Jersey

By: - January 9, 2024

Gov. Phil Murphy vetoed a bill to create a statewide strategy to fight invasive plants, irking advocates who have longed called for one.

Legislators to pocket $33K pay raises under bill now awaiting governor’s OK

By: - January 8, 2024

Critics say New Jersey legislators, who meet just about half the year, don't deserve such a large pay hike. Their pay hasn't risen since 2002.

Most insurers would have to cover infertility treatment under advancing bill

By: - January 5, 2024

Supporters say requiring insurers to cover infertility care would benefit LGBTQ couples, single adults, and people burdened by its high cost.

Sen. Bob Menendez accused of abusing his position to benefit Qatar

By: - January 2, 2024

The feds say Sen. Bob Menendez abused his position to help the government of Qatar and a friend who wanted a Qatari investor's millions