New Jersey Assembly Bill A2988

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Provides supplemental appropriation to DOE to provide additional State aid to certain school districts.

Impact

The implementation of A2988 would directly impact the funding mechanisms for a number of school districts across New Jersey. The proposed appropriations aim to bolster state aid, particularly for those districts characterized by lower property valuations and income per pupil that fall below state averages. By safeguarding their funding levels, the bill seeks to promote educational equity and support adequate resource allocation for students in these districts, potentially improving educational outcomes in underfunded areas.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2988 proposes a supplemental appropriation from the Property Tax Relief Fund to ensure that certain school districts in New Jersey receive adequate state aid. Specifically, the bill aims to provide additional funding to the Millstone Township, Manalapan-Englishtown Regional, and Freehold Regional school districts, among others that meet certain criteria related to property valuation and income per pupil. This initiative seeks to maintain the level of state aid for the 2019-2020 school year at least equal to what these districts received in the 2017-2018 year, addressing potential financial disparities.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding its funding source and the equity principle of distribution. Supporters of A2988 argue that it is crucial to ensure that funding levels are stable and equitably distributed based on the specific needs of the districts. Critics could raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of funding through the Property Tax Relief Fund, questioning whether it will adequately meet the needs of all districts in New Jersey. Additionally, there could be debates about whether the criteria set for funding are sufficiently inclusive of all struggling districts.