Establishes legislative internship program; makes appropriation.
The proposed internship program will be accessible to both full-time and part-time students attending accredited institutions of higher education, excluding those enrolled in juris doctorate and PhD programs. Priority will be given to New Jersey residents or students attending institutions within the state. Participants of the internship will be required to complete at least one work period in a district office, with an option for legislators to retain them for additional periods, thereby fostering firsthand experience in legislative operations and decision-making.
Senate Bill 2133 aims to establish a legislative internship program in New Jersey, allowing members of the Legislature to employ interns to assist with legislative duties. Under this bill, each legislator can receive up to $10,000 annually to hire legislative interns, subject to the approval of the presiding officer of their respective House. This initiative is designed to enhance the involvement of students in the legislative process and expose them to government and public service careers.
The bill allocates a total of $1,200,000 from the State General Fund to support this internship program, which raises questions regarding the efficient use of state funds and the long-term benefits of such a program compared to other educational or workforce initiatives. While supporters argue that the internship program will cultivate a new generation familiar with state governance, opponents may challenge its necessity and effectiveness, along with concerns regarding the program's funding and administrative setup.