New Jersey Assembly Bill A3320

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Establishes New Jersey Community Learning Program in DOE to provide comprehensive extended learning time programs in certain communities; dedicates portion of State cannabis revenue to support program.

Impact

A3320 mandates that every school district located within designated 'impact zones' must create and implement an extended learning time program. These impact zones are defined as areas with a high rate of criminal marijuana arrests, elevated unemployment rates, and significant poverty levels. The inclusion of public hearings for community input ensures that the needs of local stakeholders are considered in the establishment of these programs, fostering a sense of community involvement and ownership in educational initiatives.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3320 establishes the New Jersey Community Learning Program within the Department of Education, aimed at providing extended learning time programs to communities significantly impacted by the criminalization of cannabis. The intent of this program is to close the achievement gap during non-school hours, ensuring that students in these communities have access to academic and enrichment services. These programs will be funded through a dedicated portion of the state revenue derived from the retail sale of recreational cannabis products, which marks a significant shift in how educational initiatives are funded in New Jersey.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding A3320 is the potential reliance on cannabis-related revenue for funding educational initiatives. Critics may argue that linking state education funding to the fluctuating market of cannabis sales could create instability. Furthermore, some lawmakers and community advocates might raise concerns about whether the program adequately addresses the specific educational needs of students, given the complex socio-economic factors at play in these impact zones. The legislation also sets a framework where seemingly urgent educational needs might end up being secondary to the commercialization of cannabis.

Implementation

The bill provides that each impact district must submit a comprehensive program plan to the Commissioner of Education for approval, detailing services, staffing, scheduling, and resources necessary for implementation. The ability of local districts to tailor their programs ensures that varying community needs are met, thus maximizing the effectiveness of the initiative. Importantly, the bill includes provisions for state funding allocation; however, districts will not be obligated to implement such programs if state funding is unavailable, allowing for a flexible approach based on fiscal realities.