New Jersey Assembly Bill A4136

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/4/24
• Refer: 4/4/24

Caption

Provides additional State school aid to certain school districts; makes an appropriation.

Impact

If enacted, the legislation will allow qualifying school districts to receive 'Supplemental Stabilization Aid.' Under this aid program, districts that meet specific criteria, such as experiencing a positive state aid differential, will be compensated for funding losses. This bill is particularly aimed at supporting districts that struggle with variations in state funding, thereby promoting financial stability in areas adversely affected by the adjustments in state aid policies.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4136 proposes to provide additional state school aid to certain school districts facing a reduction in funding under existing legislation known as P.L.2018, c.67, referred to as 'S2'. This bill aims to address funding shortfalls that exceed one percent of a district's total operating budget from the previous school year, ensuring that no district endures drastic cuts beyond that threshold. The aid would be distributed in the 2024-2025 school year, helping to stabilize finances for districts in need.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding A4136 is its targeting of only certain districts that have seen significant aid reductions. Critics may argue that the bill does not address the underpinning issues of educational funding equity and that by narrowly focusing on specific districts, it could overlook broader educational needs elsewhere. Moreover, the bill requires districts to submit plans for future funding, which may be seen as an added administrative burden during challenging financial times.