Holly Schepisi

Holly T. Schepisi is a prominent American lawyer and politician affiliated with the Republican Party, currently serving as a member of the New Jersey State Senate representing the 39th legislative district. She has been in office since 2021, following her tenure in the New Jersey General Assembly from 2012 to 2021. Schepisi has held various leadership roles within the Assembly, including Deputy Minority Leader. Her legislative career has been marked by her involvement in local governance and advocacy on various issues, reflecting her commitment to her constituents in New Jersey.

Early life and career

Holly Schepisi was born on December 20, 1971. She is the daughter of John A. Schepisi, a lawyer and former chairman of the Bergen County Republican Organization. This familial background likely influenced her early interest in law and politics. Schepisi pursued higher education at The Catholic University of America, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in politics and psychology in 1993. She later attended Fordham University School of Law, obtaining her Juris Doctor in 1997.

During her college years, Schepisi gained practical experience in the political arena. She worked at the 1992 Republican National Convention and completed internships with various organizations, including the Organization of American States, Congresswoman Marge Roukema, and a member of the British Parliament. These experiences provided her with a foundational understanding of political processes and governance.

Following her graduation from law school, Schepisi began her career in public service and law. In 2007, she was appointed as the Township Attorney for River Vale, a position she held until 2011. Her legal career also included roles as a public defender for Oakland from 2012 to 2014 and as an alternate prosecutor for several municipalities, including Old Tappan and Westwood. These positions allowed her to engage directly with the legal system and community issues.

In her personal life, Schepisi resides in River Vale, New Jersey, with her husband, Paul Garfinkel, and their two children. In March 2015, she experienced a significant health challenge when she suffered a brain aneurysm. After undergoing surgery, she made a full recovery by the summer of the same year, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.

Legislative service

Holly Schepisi's legislative career began when she was selected by the Bergen County Republican Organization to fill a vacancy in the New Jersey General Assembly. This opportunity arose following the announcement of Charlotte Vandervalk's retirement from the Assembly seat in the 39th district. Schepisi successfully ran for the Assembly and was sworn in on January 10, 2012.

During her time in the Assembly, Schepisi quickly established herself as a key figure within the Republican caucus. She served as Assistant Minority Leader for two years before being appointed Deputy Minority Leader in January 2020. Her leadership roles allowed her to influence legislative priorities and engage with her colleagues on various issues affecting New Jersey residents.

Schepisi's tenure in the Assembly included a range of legislative initiatives. In 2014, she introduced a bill aimed at modifying vaccination requirements for schoolchildren, which sparked public debate. Although the bill did not become law, it highlighted her willingness to address contentious issues. In 2017, she organized public hearings on affordable housing, collaborating with local mayors and civic leaders to discuss the implications of the Mount Laurel Doctrine, which mandates affordable housing in New Jersey.

In March 2021, following the death of long-serving Senator Gerald Cardinale, Schepisi was chosen to succeed him in the New Jersey State Senate. She was sworn in on March 25, 2021, marking a new chapter in her legislative career. As a state senator, Schepisi continues to represent the interests of her constituents in the 39th district and participates in various legislative committees.

Policy focus and district

Holly Schepisi represents New Jersey's 39th legislative district, which encompasses several municipalities. Each district in the New Jersey Legislature is represented by one senator and two assembly members. In the 2024-25 legislative session, Schepisi serves alongside Assemblyman Robert Auth and Assemblywoman John V. Azzariti, both of whom are also Republicans.

Schepisi's policy focus has included issues related to health, human services, and urban affairs, as evidenced by her committee assignments in the New Jersey Senate. She serves on the Community and Urban Affairs Committee and the Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee. These roles allow her to engage with critical issues affecting her constituents, particularly in areas related to public health and community development.

Throughout her legislative career, Schepisi has participated in various electoral campaigns. In the 2019 election, she and her running mate secured re-election in a competitive race, demonstrating her ability to navigate the political landscape effectively. Her electoral history includes victories in both the Assembly and Senate, often in the face of challenging political dynamics.

Schepisi's legislative work reflects her commitment to addressing the needs of her district while navigating the complexities of New Jersey's political environment. Her background in law and public service informs her approach to governance, as she seeks to balance the interests of her constituents with the broader legislative agenda. As she continues her service in the New Jersey State Senate, Schepisi remains an active participant in shaping policies that impact the lives of New Jersey residents.