New Jersey Senate Bill S1562

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Requires 10 percent of certain federal education relief funds, approximating $26.2 million, be dedicated specifically to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly influence state law related to the distribution of federal education funds, particularly through its setup of a state reserve dedicated to specific educational needs. By guaranteeing funds for students with disabilities, S1562 aims to address long-term learning loss experienced by these students during the pandemic, where traditional methods of in-person education were compromised. The allocation is seen as a necessary step to provide equitable educational opportunities and mitigate the adverse effects on this group of students.

Summary

Senate Bill S1562, introduced in New Jersey, mandates that no less than 10 percent of the state's allocation from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief III (ESSER III) Fund be specifically dedicated to programs and services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This translates to approximately $26.2 million aimed to enhance educational support for these students, who have been adversely affected by the disruptions caused by COVID-19 school closures. The bill is positioned to ensure that this vulnerable group receives essential educational resources during a critical time of recovery.

Contention

One point of contention may arise regarding the distribution of the remaining federal funds. While S1562 focuses on the dedicated amount for students with disabilities, the overall distribution of ESSER III funds across other educational needs will also be a matter of discussion among legislators and stakeholders. Critics may argue this dedication could impact the allocation of resources for broader educational challenges that arise due to the pandemic, such as general learning loss among all students, which was a primary concern recognized by the ESSER III guidelines.