New Jersey Assembly Expands Committee Structure Under Democratic Majority

Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin announces creation of two new committees and six new committee chairs as Democrats solidify control.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The New Jersey General Assembly has undergone significant restructuring under the leadership of Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, with the creation of two new standing committees and the appointment of six new committee chairs. This comes as the Democratic Party holds its largest majority in the legislature in decades, controlling 57 of the 80 Assembly seats.

Why it matters

The changes to the Assembly's committee structure are intended to strengthen oversight of state government operations and enhance the legislature's ability to engage with federal policy and funding issues. The new Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee, chaired by Assemblyman Avi Schnall, will play a key role in this effort.

The details

Assemblyman Avi Schnall has been named Chairman of the new Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee. Schnall, who was sworn in for his second term on January 20, will also serve as a Deputy Whip in the Assembly Democratic caucus' leadership team. In addition to chairing the Oversight committee, Schnall has been appointed to the influential Budget Committee and Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee.

  • The New Jersey General Assembly began its current session in January 2026.
  • Assemblyman Avi Schnall was sworn in for his second term on January 20, 2026.

The players

Craig Coughlin

The Assembly Speaker who announced the creation of two new standing committees and the appointment of six new committee chairs.

Avi Schnall

A New Jersey Assemblyman who has been named Chairman of the new Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee. Schnall is also serving as a Deputy Whip in the Assembly Democratic caucus' leadership team.

Reginald Atkins

The former Assemblyman who previously chaired the Oversight committee but did not seek re-election in 2025.

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What’s next

With committee assignments now finalized, Assembly leaders are expected to move quickly into hearings and legislative work as the session gains momentum.

The takeaway

The restructuring of the New Jersey Assembly's committee system under the Democratic Party's historic majority reflects the legislature's intent to strengthen its oversight and engagement with state and federal issues. Assemblyman Avi Schnall's appointment to key leadership roles, including chairing the new Oversight committee, underscores the growing influence of the Jersey Shore region within the state's political landscape.