New Jersey Assembly Bill A5773

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/30/23
• Refer: 11/30/23

Caption

Provides an excused absence for pupil who serves as poll worker on election day.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend New Jersey's education statutes to incorporate provisions specifically for the treatment of absences related to serving as poll workers. This measure reinforces the importance of civic involvement from a young age, aiding in the preparation of students to become active members of their communities. Moreover, the legislative change emphasizes the role of youth in elections, recognizing their contributions to democracy.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5773 proposes that public school pupils aged 16 and older who serve as poll workers on election days receive an excused absence from school. The intent of the bill is to encourage civic engagement among students by facilitating their ability to participate in the electoral process without penalizing their education. Those students will have their absences recorded as excused on their attendance records, which would not adversely affect their perfect attendance status.

Contention

While the bill aims to promote student participation in democracy, there may be concerns regarding the implications for school attendance policies and the necessary documentation that students need to provide to their administrators. Some critics may argue that additional absences could strain educational outcomes, while proponents believe the benefits of encouraging civic duty outweigh potential drawbacks. The requirement for documentation, as stipulated in the bill, would be monitored by school officials to ensure compliance.