The Law and Disability Conference is an annual event held at the New Jersey Law Center, co-sponsored by the New Jersey State Bar Foundation and the Community Health Law Project. This conference focuses on addressing legal issues pertinent to the disabled community and their caregivers, providing a platform for education and advocacy.
The 2026 conference will cover key topics including housing, immigration, juvenile justice, and domestic violence. Attendees can expect informative sessions that delve into these critical areas, offering insights and resources to navigate the associated legal challenges.
The event will take place on June 8, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and will be accessible both in person at the New Jersey Law Center and virtually. The agenda includes a registration and continental breakfast for in-person attendees, followed by a welcome and introduction, an opening session on changes to Medicaid and SNAP benefits, and concurrent breakout sessions on challenges facing New Jersey school-age students, housing policy updates, and immigration issues.
This conference is ideal for individuals with disabilities, caregivers, legal professionals, and advocates seeking to stay informed about current legal issues affecting the disabled community. It offers valuable information, networking opportunities, and access to resources that can assist in addressing and overcoming legal challenges.
Speakers(7)
Diane Riley
Executive Director at Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey
Diane Riley is the Executive Director of the Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey, bringing years of experience as a leading voice for the economically disadvantaged in New Jersey.
Erika Kerber
President/Executive Director at Community Health Law Project
Erika Kerber is the President and Executive Director at the Community Health Law Project, a non-profit legal services organization providing legal and advocacy services to low-income New Jersey residents living with disabilities, chronic health conditions, and the frail elderly.
Janel Winter
Assistant Commissioner & Director at New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Division of Housing & Community Resources
Janel Winter is the Assistant Commissioner and Director of the Division of Housing & Community Resources at the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
Jonathan Tew
Policy Director at New Jersey Department of Human Services
Jonathan Tew is the Policy Director at the New Jersey Department of Human Services.
Joseph Bongiovanni
Director, MLTSS at New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance & Health Services
Joseph Bongiovanni serves as the Director of Managed Long Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) at the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance & Health Services.
Melanie Walter
Executive Director at New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency
Melanie Walter serves as the Executive Director of the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.
Michael Bongiovanni
Project Director at Money Follows the Person demonstration
Michael Bongiovanni has served as project director for the federal Money Follows the Person demonstration, managed operations for a 1915(c) HCBS waiver for persons with developmental disabilities, and coordinated community supports.
Event Details
- Date
- June 8, 2026
- Location
- 🇺🇸 New Brunswick, United States
- New Jersey Law Center
- Pricing
- Free
- Audience
- Individuals with disabilities, caregivers, legal professionals, and advocates.