New Jersey Senate Bill S1655

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Requires nonpublic secondary schools and independent institutions of higher education to make payment to school districts for educational costs of students residing in tax-exempt housing upon adoption of resolution by municipal governing body.

Impact

Under the provisions of this bill, school districts will gain additional revenue to cover educational costs that are typically borne by the district when students from tax-exempt housing attend public schools. By ensuring these educational institutions contribute financially, S1655 could assist in alleviating some financial burdens from public school districts, potentially leading to improved resources and services for students in these districts. Furthermore, the bill effectively aims to prevent shifts in fiscal responsibilities that can negatively impact local educational budgets.

Summary

S1655 aims to address the educational costs associated with students residing in tax-exempt housing. Specifically, the bill mandates that nonpublic secondary schools and independent institutions of higher education in New Jersey must make annual payments to school districts for students enrolled in public or charter schools who live in tax-exempt facilities owned by these educational entities. This requirement comes into effect upon the adoption of a resolution by the respective municipal governing body. The payment amount is to be calculated as the district's per pupil general fund local levy for the budget year.

Contention

However, the bill may stir contention amongst stakeholders. Critics might argue that requiring payments from nonpublic and independent institutions could place an undue financial burden on these educational entities, potentially interfering with their primary educational missions. Additionally, there may be concerns about how municipalities decide to implement the resolutions, potentially leading to inconsistencies across districts. Proponents of the bill believe it addresses necessary funding gaps and promotes fair contribution from all educational facilities benefiting from local resources.