Tonanziht

Tonanziht Aguas (toe-NAHN-see a-GOO-as) (she/her) is a Policy Analyst and State Policy Fellow at New Jersey Policy Perspective, where she focuses on economic security and conducts research to advance policies that strengthen stability for New Jersey families.

A Safety Net in Retreat: An Obstacle Course Known as TANF

April 23, 2026 • Economic Justice, Tax and Budget
New Jersey's top cash assistance program is long overdue for reform so it can reach the families it was designed to serve.

TANF Explained: New Jersey’s Safety Net Steadily Falls Short

April 21, 2026 • Economic Justice
New Jersey’s main cash assistance program for families hasn’t kept pace with the cost of living for decades.

How Gov. Sherrill’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Measures Up

March 11, 2026 • Tax and Budget
NJPP's research team evaluates whether Governor Murphy's final budget proposal sufficiently advances economic, social, and racial justice.

What to Look for in the New Jersey Budget for Fiscal Year 2027

March 3, 2026 • Tax and Budget
Ahead of Governor Sherrill's first budget address, here are key benchmarks to evaluate whether the budget sufficiently addresses fiscal challenges while aligning with the values of expanding opportunity for all.

Census 2024: Economic Gains Bypass Many New Jersey Communities

October 21, 2025 • Economic Justice
Nearly one in 10 New Jerseyans still lived below the poverty level last year.