New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A924

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Prohibits contributions by administrator of Type II school district to candidates for member of district's school board; restricts employment by Type II school district of contributors to election campaign of member of district's school board.

Impact

The passage of A924 would significantly impact how school board elections are conducted in Type II school districts by restricting financial influence from school administrators on candidates. This regulation is designed to foster a more equitable and transparent electoral process by reducing the risk of undue influence. Additionally, the two-year disqualification from administrative appointments after exceeding the contribution limit serves as a deterrent against potential misuse of position for financial backing in elections.

Summary

A924 is a legislative bill introduced in New Jersey that addresses campaign contributions related to school board elections in Type II school districts. The bill prohibits individuals in administrative roles within these school districts from making campaign contributions that exceed $100 per election to candidates for the board of education. This cap applies to contributions made by the administrator directly or through family members, aiming to mitigate potential conflicts of interest and maintain integrity within school governance. The bill outlines that any breach of this contribution limit results in a two-year ineligibility for the individual to hold administrative positions within the respective school district following the election in question.

Conclusion

Ultimately, A924 represents a proactive measure in New Jersey aimed at safeguarding the integrity of school board elections in Type II school districts. Its enactment will challenge existing norms around financial contributions in local governance, potentially leading to a shift in how educational leaders engage with the political landscape surrounding school board candidates.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary measure for ensuring ethical conduct within educational governance, concerns have been raised about its potential implications for candidate viability and the administrative capabilities of school districts. Opponents argue that strict limitations on contributions could disadvantage candidates who may need financial support from local educational leaders to run effective campaigns. The debate may reflect broader discussions around campaign finance reform and the balance between regulatory oversight and political freedom.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A2533

Prohibits contributions by administrator of Type II school district to candidates for member of district's school board; restricts employment by Type II school district of contributors to election campaign of member of district's school board.

NJ S4209

Eliminates vote on school budgets for Type II school districts in April elections, except for separate proposals to spend above cap.

NJ A5879

Eliminates vote on school budgets for Type II school districts in April elections, except for separate proposals to spend above cap.

NJ A2078

Eliminates vote on school budgets for Type II school districts in April elections, except for separate proposals to spend above cap.

NJ A226

Requires Type II school district without board of school estimate holding its school election in November to receive voter approval of base budget.

NJ A3607

Requires Type II school district without board of school estimate holding its school election in November to receive voter approval of base budget.

NJ S1845

Requires Type II school district without board of school estimate holding its school election in November to receive voter approval of base budget.

NJ S1673

Requires Type II school district without board of school estimate holding its school election in November to receive voter approval of base budget.

NJ HB2610

School districts; board members; superintendent

NJ AB709

School districts: governing boards: pupil members.

Similar Bills

NJ A2533

Prohibits contributions by administrator of Type II school district to candidates for member of district's school board; restricts employment by Type II school district of contributors to election campaign of member of district's school board.

CA SB644

Political Reform Act of 1974: contribution limits.

CA SB328

Political Reform Act of 1974: contribution limits.

CA AB1089

Local elective offices: contribution limitations.

NJ A1207

Increases percent of public employees' charitable contributions that may be spent on administrative costs.

NJ S2373

Increases percent of public employees' charitable contributions that may be spent on administrative costs.

OK HB2109

Campaign finance and financial disclosure; municipal; county; technology center district; independent school district; Ethics Commission; effective date; emergency.

OK SB890

Local Government Campaign Finance and Financial Disclosure Act; transferring certain duties to the Ethics Commission. Effective date.