Britnee Timberlake

Britnee Timberlake is a prominent American politician and community advocate currently serving as a member of the New Jersey State Senate, representing the 34th Legislative District. A member of the Democratic Party, she has made history as New Jersey's youngest state senator since taking office in January 2024. Timberlake's political career began in the New Jersey General Assembly, where she served from January 2018 until her transition to the Senate. Her background includes significant experience in nonprofit leadership and community organizing, particularly in the areas of affordable housing and social justice.

Early life and career

Britnee Timberlake was born on May 14, 1986. She is the daughter of Philip Timberlake, a sergeant in the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division, and Cathy Walsh Timberlake, an educator specializing in the instruction of mentally and physically challenged individuals. This family background has influenced her commitment to public service and community advocacy.

Timberlake pursued her education at Seton Hall University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in political science followed by a master's degree in public administration. Her academic achievements laid the foundation for her future endeavors in both community service and politics.

In 2010, Timberlake began her professional career as an AmeriCorps member in Union County, New Jersey. During her time with AmeriCorps, she focused on welfare-to-work initiatives, which included assisting individuals with resume writing, organizing GED clinics, and facilitating career advancement programs. This experience provided her with valuable insights into the challenges faced by low-income families and the importance of community support systems.

In 2012, Timberlake took on a leadership role as the housing chair of the Montclair chapter of the NAACP. In this capacity, she worked to integrate affordable housing throughout Montclair, addressing issues of housing inequality that had previously concentrated resources in specific areas of the community. Her efforts contributed to a more equitable distribution of housing opportunities.

In 2011, Timberlake co-founded the Essex Community Land Trust (ECLT) with Harold Simon, the former publisher of ShelterForce magazine. As the Executive Director, she led the organization in its mission to provide permanently affordable housing and financial empowerment opportunities for working families throughout Essex County. Under her leadership, the ECLT successfully raised over $2 million in housing subsidies and established partnerships aimed at community development. Timberlake's work with the ECLT involved creating and managing a housing portfolio, extending affordability deed restrictions for numerous homes, and participating in the rehabilitation and creation of community land trust units.

Legislative service

Timberlake's political career began in earnest when she was elected to represent District 3 on the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders in 2014. She made history as the youngest freeholder in the county's current system of representation and became the first African American woman to serve as president of the board in January 2015. During her tenure, she oversaw a budget exceeding $700 million and implemented various initiatives aimed at increasing economic opportunities for marginalized communities.

As Freeholder President, Timberlake authored an affirmative action law that established a county government bid set-aside and joint venture program to enhance economic opportunities for women-owned, minority-owned, and veteran-owned businesses. She also created legislation requiring banks that conducted business with the county to demonstrate their efforts in reducing foreclosures and supporting low-to-moderate-income communities. Additionally, she spearheaded the Essex County Clean Jobs Initiative, which focused on job training and placement for unemployed and underemployed residents in environmental sectors.

Timberlake's advocacy extended to law enforcement practices as well. She was instrumental in pushing for the acquisition of body cameras for officers in the Sheriff’s Department. Furthermore, she was the first elected official in New Jersey to pass a resolution supporting the increase of the minimum wage to $15 per hour, a law she later co-authored during her time in the state assembly.

In January 2018, Timberlake transitioned to the New Jersey General Assembly after being selected to fill the vacancy left by Sheila Oliver, who became the Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey. Timberlake was sworn in on January 29, 2018, and continued to break barriers as the only African American woman serving as a freeholder director at the time.

During her time in the Assembly, Timberlake was a prime author of the $15 minimum wage bill, which became law in 2019. She also introduced the Fair Work Week Act, designed to protect shift workers' access to rest periods and ensure consistent scheduling. In January 2019, she sponsored legislation requiring the New Jersey Attorney General to oversee investigations into fatalities occurring during interactions with law enforcement, a measure that received support from various advocacy groups.

Policy focus and district

Timberlake's legislative focus reflects her commitment to social justice, economic equity, and community empowerment. Her work has consistently aimed at addressing issues that affect low-income families and marginalized communities. As a member of the New Jersey State Senate, she continues to advocate for policies that promote affordable housing, economic opportunity, and equitable treatment under the law.

Representing the 34th Legislative District, Timberlake's constituency includes diverse communities that face unique challenges. Her background in community organizing and nonprofit leadership informs her approach to legislation, ensuring that the voices of her constituents are heard and prioritized in the policymaking process. Timberlake's dedication to public service is evident in her ongoing efforts to create a more just and equitable society for all residents of New Jersey.

As she continues her legislative career, Timberlake remains focused on advancing policies that foster economic growth, enhance public safety, and improve the quality of life for the people she serves. Her journey from community advocate to state senator exemplifies her commitment to making a positive impact in her district and beyond.