My political philosophy:
Politics has always been partisan but when all was said and done both Democrats and Republicans came together to do what was right for our country. That spirit of common goals is being challenged. In my opinion, extremism on either the right or the left is not in the best interests of our state and our nation. I have always worked with both sides of the aisle to help improve the lives of every resident of New Jersey. Every piece of legislation which I have sponsored which has been signed into law had both Democrat and Republican sponsors. Now, more than ever, we need to address the challenges facing our families and businesss in a cooperative manner. Please use this webpage as a resource. If I can ever be of any assistance do not hestitate to reach out to me.
– Assemblyman Partick Diegnan
Leader in the District
Metuchen Re-Organization Ceremony
On January 3, 2012 - I had the great honor of being asked by Mayor Thomas Vahalla, Councilman Peter Cammarano and Councilman John Muldoon of administering the oath of office at the Metuchen Borough Re-organization Ceremony. Metuchen is truly blessed. There is a reason why people look to Metuchen as an efficient model of government. The three individuals who were sworn-in are of intelligence, ability and character; they will serve the people of Metuchen with distrinction. I say it ever time I administer the oath of office; let us be thankful for the liberties we enjoy and sometimes take for granted. By Mayor Vahalla, Councilman Cammarano and Councilman Muldoon simply placing their hands on the bible and reciting the oath, they are validating our democracy. How many people around the world are fighting for what happens every year across municipalities in this great State and country without incident or provocation.
Leader in Education
State law may create 'super teams'
A state law allowing students to enroll at select high schools without being subject to NJSIAA transfer rules is being monitored by legislators, who may consider amending the statute after learning about concerns of players transferring for athletic advantage.
The Interdistrict School Choice Program, which was expanded this academic year, increases educational opportunities for students, allowing them to attend a state Department of Education-approved public school within 20 miles of their district of residence without cost to their parents.
Assemblyman Patrick Diegnan, D-Middlesex, who chairs the assembly’s Education Committee, said the issue of dealing with the transfer of student-athletes under the Choice School Program Act never arose when the legislation was discussed in committee.
“If this becomes what appears to be a continuing issue, obviously it’s something that should be addressed,” Diegnan said. “If it’s anecdotal or unique, clearly we don’t want to overreact. It’s premature to jump to any conclusions.“Let’s give it a year. We can make revisions to the law.
Breaking News
Because Cheerleaders are athletes too!
Legislation sponsored by Assembly member Patrick J. Diegnan, Jr. requiring the state Department of Education to include cheerleading in the student-athlete head injury safety training program was signed into law by Governor Chris Christie Monday.
The law (A-4008) extends the safety training requirement to cheerleading coaches in public school and nonpublic school interscholastic sports programs, and amends the current law which requires the training solely for school physicians, sports coaches and athletic trainers in public school and nonpublic school interscholastic sports programs.
This law will ensure the safety of students involved in cheerleading, which has become more competitive and pushes the limits of gymnastics and dance," said Diegnan (D-Middlesex). "These students run the risk of serious injury when they perform, and deserve the same level of protection given to other students involved in school athletics."
Senator Barbara Buono, Assemblyman Patrick Diegnan and Assemblyman Peter Barnes were returned to office in a landslide victory Tuesday night.
Senator Buono out polled her opponent by 20% and the Assemblymen received a 18% plurality.
Assemblymen Diegnan summed up the feelings of the Democratic team saying "Barbara, Peter and I are humbled by the overwhelming support we received throughout the 18th District. We look forward to continue to work for the hard working families of East Brunswick, Edison, Helmetta, Highland Park, Metuchen, South Plainfield and South River."