New Jersey Assembly Bill A4144

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/4/24
• Refer: 4/4/24
• Failed: 6/13/24

Caption

"New Jersey Student Support Act"; establishes program in Department of Treasury to provide tax credits to taxpayers contributing to organization which awards scholarships to certain nonpublic school students.

Impact

The bill is anticipated to significantly impact educational funding by enabling more families to afford private schooling alternatives, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds. The initiative establishes specific eligibility criteria for both schools and students, ensuring that the program aligns with broader educational goals. Each year, a maximum of $37.5 million in tax credits may be allocated, which sets a limit on the total amount of tax reductions available, while also aiming to do so in a manner that maintains equity across the state’s counties.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4144, known as the 'New Jersey Student Support Act,' proposes to establish a program within the Department of the Treasury designed to provide tax credits to taxpayers who contribute to organizations that offer scholarships for eligible students to attend nonpublic schools in New Jersey. This program aims to alleviate educational cost burdens for low-income families, allowing them greater access to educational choices. The tax credits will be equal to 75% of contributions made to such organizations, promoting financial support from the private sector toward educational funding.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding the bill. Critics may argue that the program diverts essential funding away from public schools, raising concerns regarding the equitable distribution of educational resources. Furthermore, the eligibility requirements and the extent to which this initiative might inadvertently encourage the growth of nonpublic institutions over public ones are also debated. Supporters, on the other hand, believe that this approach provides necessary alternatives for families seeking quality education tailored to their children's needs.

Regulatory framework

To ensure transparency and effectiveness, the legislation mandates systematic reporting and oversight mechanisms, requiring the Department of the Treasury, in conjunction with the Department of Education, to administer the program and report regularly on its performance. Such checks are designed to monitor the impact of the scholarships on school choices and the overall educational landscape in the state. The bill’s framework seeks to balance private contributions with public educational obligations in accordance with state constitutional mandates.