New Jersey Senate Bill S1809

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Establishes New Jersey Community Learning Program in DOE to provide comprehensive after school programs in certain communities; dedicates portion of State cannabis revenue to support program.

Impact

The legislation mandates that every school district in designated impact zones implement after school community learning programs. This requirement aims to ensure that students in these regions benefit from structured educational activities and support after regular school hours. The program will not only utilize existing school facilities but also approved off-site locations, with mandatory transportation provided for participating students. Moreover, to facilitate community involvement, districts are required to hold public hearings to gather input on program establishment, showcasing a commitment to community engagement in educational reforms.

Summary

S1809 establishes the New Jersey Community Learning Program within the Department of Education to provide comprehensive after school programs in communities affected by cannabis criminalization, known as 'impact zones.' The funding for these programs will derive from a portion of the state revenue generated from the retail sale of recreational cannabis products. The primary goal is to close the achievement gap for students during non-school hours, including summer breaks, by providing services aimed at academic enrichment and community support.

Contention

One of the notable aspects of S1809 is its reliance on cannabis revenue, which may raise debates around the broader implications of funding education through taxation on a substance that, while legalized for recreational use, carries sociopolitical stigmas. Additionally, concerns may emerge regarding the accountability and effectiveness of the programs expected to be implemented in these districts. By linking educational support to cannabis revenue, stakeholders could argue for or against the appropriateness of such funding sources for public education initiatives, especially in light of New Jersey's ongoing discussions about cannabis regulation.