On Oct. 8, Gov. Murphy signed into law S-698 which makes child care an eligible campaign expense. 

Such expense is permitted during campaigns – including school board campaigns – if the expenses are for providing care for the well-being and protection of the child outside of the home, in a child care facility, or in the home of the office holder or candidate. 

The childcare expense must stem directly from campaign activities or duties incurred while serving in office. Child care expenses will not include payments to a member of the office holder’s or candidate’s household. The Election Law Enforcement Commission is charged with providing guidance and promulgating regulations on these eligible expenses.  The law is effective immediately. For details, please contact the N.J. Election Law Enforcement Commission at (609292-8700.