New Jersey Assembly Bill A1166

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires school districts to pay advanced placement examination fees for certain students and the State to reimburse school districts for the cost.

Impact

Upon enactment, the law will have a significant impact on state education policies as it mandates financial support for advanced placement exams. School districts are responsible for covering the fees, which is expected to facilitate greater access to higher-level coursework for students who may otherwise forgo these opportunities due to financial constraints. The state is obligated to reimburse the districts for their expenditures, thereby creating a support mechanism that may stabilize school funding amidst varying economic conditions.

Summary

Bill A1166 requires school districts in New Jersey to pay advanced placement examination fees for selected public high school students, specifically those from low-income households. The eligibility is based on household income not exceeding 1.85 to 3.70 times the federal poverty guidelines. By removing the financial barrier associated with these exams, the bill aims to promote educational equity by encouraging students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to enroll in advanced placement courses, which can enhance their college readiness and academic achievements.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding Bill A1166 may revolve around budgetary impacts on school districts, as concerns about funding availability arise. Critics may express worries about the long-term sustainability of such reimbursements, particularly amidst fluctuating state budgets. Additionally, discussions could raise relevant questions about the fairness of the funding model—whether it adequately addresses the varying needs of all students and whether any students may be left unsupported if they fall outside the proposed income thresholds.