Franklin Township Education Association

Proud of our Students and Community

Legislative Update November 10,2021

 
They’re baaaaack!  The legislature, that is, and thus legislative updates!  Monday was the first legislative session day of the lame duck session.  While I know we have all been focusing on election results, state elections also mean it’s time for the legislature to reconvene and finish their work by January 10, the last day of this legislative session.
 
Before we talk about bills, let’s go back to those election day results.  Governor Murphy declared victory over Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli, who has not yet conceded as of this writing.  When I first started writing this, Senate President Steve Sweeney had not yet conceded, but by the time you read this, he may have to his Republican opponent Ed Durr.
 
With Senator President Steve Sweeney’s unexpected election day loss, Trenton held its breath waiting to see how legislative leadership would shake out.  It appears there is an agreement, and the vote will take place on Friday, with Senator Nicholas Scutari, from the 22nd district in Union County, poised to become the next Senate President.  The retirement of Majority Leader Senator Weinberg also leaves her leadership position vacant.  Senator Teresa Ruiz, from the 29th district in Essex County, was in line to be Majority Leader under Sweeney; rumor has it she may still get that post.
 
Assembly leadership did not change, with Craig Coughlin re-elected as Speaker and Lou Greenwald re-elected as Majority Leader.  However, eight committee chairpersons will not be returning to the Assembly, due to election losses and movement to the upper house.  At the same time, with a change in the Senate Presidency, expect changes to committee chairs there as well.
 
Republican leadership will also see changes, as Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean did not seek reelection and Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick won a senate seat.  In the upper house, Senator Steve Oroho, from the 24th district in Sussex County, will become the new minority leader, while Assemblyman John DiMaio from the 23rd district in Warren County will become the new minority leader in his house.  While the Senate contest seemed peaceful, the Assembly minority leadership was contested.  Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz appeared to have clinched the position until Assemblyman Brian Bergen entered the race as well, resulting in DiMaio emerging as a consensus candidate.
 
Assembly Speaker Coughlin has announced his priorities for the next legislative session:  hunger, homelessness, mental health, child care issues and providing more aid to small business owners.  With new leadership and smaller majorities in both houses, dynamics between the houses, legislative leadership and the governor may look entirely different in the new session.  We will have to see what priorities emerge from the Senate, and see what Sweeney prioritizes in lame duck.
 
John Mooney does a nice job looking at what will happen from an education perspective here: https://www.njspotlightnews.org/2021/11/nj-legislature-education-issues-murphy-conditional-veto-ruiz-leadership-change/
 
With all the hubbub, it was unclear whether there would be a session day on Monday, but there was.  The legislature coming back into session also meant the governor had to sign bills that had been waiting on his desk.
 
RESULTS FROM MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8
 
  *  A1626/S228 – Requires EDA to establish loan program for certain costs of electric-powered school bus purchases by local school districts and school bus contractors. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  A2300/S3129 – Requires apportionment of membership on certain regional district boards of education to be based on amount of district costs apportioned to each constituent municipality. (Monitor)
  *  A3392/S1219 – Requires student representative be appointed to each board of education of school district and board of trustees of charter school that includes grades nine through 12. (Support)
  *  A4856/S3094 – Requires Internet websites and web services of school districts, charter schools, and renaissance schools to be accessible to persons with disabilities. (Support) (Reported out of committee; Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee)
  *  A5694 – Permits dependents of military member to enroll in school district in advance of military member’s relocation to district. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  S1066 – Establishes Prescription Drug Affordability Board; appropriates $1 million. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee; Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee)
  *  S1530 – Establishes a joint legislative and executive branch New Jersey Revenue Advisory Board to provide consensus revenue forecasting advice for State budget purposes. (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S2835 – Requires compilation of data and issuance of annual reports on New Jersey teacher workforce. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3464 – Requires instruction on information literacy in curriculum of students in grades kindergarten through 12. (Seek Amendments) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3726 – Ensures student well-being during school security drills. (Monitor)
  *  S4021 – Requires school districts to provide instruction on history and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders as part of implementation of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies. (Support)
  *  S4073 – Provides supplemental appropriations of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. (Support) (Reported out of committee; Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee)
  *  S4074 – Allows alternative evaluation in place of basic skills testing requirements for certain teacher certification. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S4075 – Eliminates requirement for three years that school districts receive DOE approval for non-instructional or non-educational school facilities or capital maintenance projects. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S991 – Requires owner or operator of certain trains to have discharge response, cleanup, and contingency plans to transport certain hazardous materials by rail; requires DEP to request bridge inspection reports from US DOT. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
 
BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW
 
  *  A1616/S550 – Requires certain student identification cards to contain telephone number for suicide prevention hotline. (Monitor)
  *  A2311/S356 – Establishes study commission to examine development of mutually beneficial relationships between institutions of higher education and municipalities. (Support)
  *  A2619/S3253 – Establishes alternate route to expedite certification of teachers at early college high school programs. (Oppose)
  *  A3027/S793 – Commits $3 million from Supplemental Workforce Fund for Basic Skill to NJ Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development. (Support)
  *  A4544/S3150 – Permits school nurse who is retired from TPAF to return to employment for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF. (Oppose)
  *  A4836/S3313 – Establishes task force to evaluate quality, efficacy, costs, and educational outcomes of online courses offered by public and independent institutions of higher education and degree-granting proprietary institutions during COVID-19 pandemic. (Support)
  *  A5817/S3852 – Revises violation and fines for approving or assigning unauthorized individuals as school bus drivers. (Support)
  *  A5818/S3849 – Provides for debarment of school bus contractors for certain violations; requires certain information in pupil transportation contract bid. (Support)
  *  A5896/S3948 – Authorizes supplemental State aid to school districts receiving certain federal Impact Aid; makes appropriation. (Monitor)
  *  AJR208/ SJR109 – Condemns hate and violent extremism and commits to defense of safe and just democracy. (Support)
 
BILLS CONDITIONALLY VETOED
 
  *  A169/S108 – Concerns speech rights of student journalists at public schools and public institutions of higher education. (Support)
  *  A5701/S2160 – Creates special education unit within the Office of Administrative Law; requires annual report. (Support)
  *  A4179/S2559 – Revises requirements for health insurance providers and Medicaid to cover services provided using telemedicine and telehealth; appropriates $5 million. (Monitor)
  *  A5312/S2834 – Mandates training on culturally responsive teaching for all candidates for teaching certification. (Support)
  *  A5537/S3488 – Modifies certain procedures pertaining to school district regionalization; establishes grant program for cost reimbursement of conducting regionalization feasibility studies; and provides financial incentives for regionalization. (Support)
  *  A2455/S2204 – Establishes pilot program in DOE to support FIRST Robotics Programs in school districts. (Support)
  *  A4433/S2715 – Creates grant program to encourage school districts to partner with institutions of higher education in training school-based mental health services providers. (Support)
  *  A4435/S2717 – Requires DCF to give priority to certain school districts with student mental health counseling centers in awarding grants under School Based Youth Services Program. (Monitor)
 
BILLS VETOED
 
  *  A2687/S969 – Establishes loan redemption program for teachers in certain fields to redeem loan amounts received under New Jersey College Loans to Assist State Students Loan Program through employment in certain low performing schools. (Support)
 
WHEN WILL THE LEGISLATURE MEET AGAIN?
 
  *  Monday, November 15, Assembly Committees at Call of the Speaker; Senate Committees
  *  Thursday, December 2, Assembly and Senate Voting Sessions
  *  Monday, December 6, Assembly and Senate Committees
  *  Thursday, December 9, Assembly and Senate Committees
  *  Monday, December 13, Assembly Committees at Call of the Speaker; Senate Committees
  *  Thursday, December 16, Assembly Voting Session
  *  Monday, December 20, Senate Voting Session
  *  Monday, January 3, Assembly Committees at Call of the Speaker
  *  Thursday, January 6, Assembly Committees at Call of the Speaker; Senate Committees
  *  Monday, January 10, Assembly and Senate Voting Sessions
 
[New Jersey Education Association]<https://www.njea.org/>
 
Francine Pfeffer
Associate Director
 
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
 
180 W. State Street
Trenton, NJ 08607-1211
 
p: 609-599-4561 x 2326
c: 732-280-8324
f: 609-394-3355

Results From The Legislature June 24, 2021

 
 
Following yesterday’s lengthy legislative session the legislature approved the FY2022 budget, detailed more below, as well as a number of bills which impact NJEA members and which were supported by the organization. This budget is historic in the amounts of money dedicated to pre-k-12 education, higher education and the pension system as starters. Remember that Governor Murphy’s initial budget proposal introduced the first full actuarial required pension payment in 25 years and a year ahead of the law requiring him to submit a budget with a 9/10th payment. As you will see below following that announcement and that the state would have greater than expected revenues Senate President Sweeney and Speaker Coughlin worked to agree on additional funds to pay down the unfunded liability by an addition $505 million dollars.
 
As you can see below the budget is required to be completed by June 30th each year, but again this year the Governor, Senate President and Speaker working together have moved forward with a state budget in advance of the June 30th deadline.
 
NJEA supported A-5870 (Pintor Marin, Burzichelli)/S-2022 (Sarlo, Cunningham), the FY 2022 budget bill, which appropriated $46,380,012,000 in State funds and $21,026,030,082 in federal funds for the State budget for fiscal year 2021-2022.  This budget will help strengthen our state, communities and schools as we move into the future.
 
The budget demonstrates the state’s support of our schools, students, their communities and school employees through its inclusion of the following:
.
 
  *  A full actuarial payment to TPAF a year ahead of schedule. In addition the legislature and Governor added another $301,509,00.00 to TPAF alone. This payment will help ensure the solvency of the pension fund.  The TPAF payment, along with funding to support post-retirement medical benefits for retirees who qualify, show the state’s commitment to hard-working public school employees.
  *  Over all the Governor and legislature are adding an additional $505 million dollars to the pension system beyond what actuaries have required making the total being contributed to the pension system this year $6.9 Billion. THAT’S RIGHT!!
  *  Significant funding for pre-k-12 education.  This additional investment in our schools puts us on the path to fully funding the school funding formula. However, we note that districts affected by S-2 should be given consideration for additional aid moving forward.
  *  Increased extraordinary special education aid by $125,000,000, which will help our K-12 schools meet the high costs of special education while delivering needed services to our students.
  *  More funding for our county colleges, $5,000,000.00, which have been chronically underfunded over the years, through operating aid, as well as additional money to the Community College Opportunity Grant program.
  *  Additional funding for meeting student needs, including food programs, school linked services, and the community schools pilot program.  The pandemic only underscored the importance of meeting students’ social, emotional, and physical needs. Some of these increases are:
    *  Breakfast After the Bell – $5,000,000
    *  School Linked Services Program  – $5,000,000
    *  Community Schools Pilot Program Fund – $5,000,000
    *  SNAP & School Meals Dual Enrollment Pilot Program – $600,000
 
Ultimately, a strong investment in public education is an investment in our communities and our future. NJEA thanks the legislature and the governor for making this investment in New Jersey’s public schools and working to keep the promises the state made to its education employees, who ensured students continued learning through the pandemic. The state’s investment today will continue to ensure our education system remains strong and grows stronger into the future.
 
Additionally, as the Governor and legislature worked out the details of the FY 2022 budget the agreement on A13 (Freiman, Armato, Pintor Marin, Mazzeo, Houghtaling, Coughlin) / S4000 (Sarlo, Sweeney) to establish a “New Jersey Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund,” in the amount of $3.7 billion helps create a sound fiscal approach to improve the state’s long term financial situation. Reducing the overall debt burden in future years by drawing from this fund will free up more resources in the coming years to meet pressing needs such as school funding, pension and support for community colleges. Using this specific opportunity of additional resources to improve the state’s fiscal footing is a smart strategy to meet our collective obligations in school funding, pensions, and critical infrastructure needs.
 
Finally, we expect that the Governor will sign the budget next week, which much be completed by June 30th. It will take effect for the fiscal year beginning July 1.
 
For anyone interested, here’s how the budget process works:
 
  *  The governor proposes a budget, usually towards the end of February.
  *  The legislature goes on “budget break” and takes public comments and hears from each executive department about its budget needs.
  *  Budget break ends, regular legislative work resumes.
  *  Budget committees vote on a budget.
  *  The budget then moves to a floor and finally the Governor’s signature.
THE BUDGET AND BILL NEWS:
 
 
The budget got the headlines, but many more bills were passed by legislators eager to break before their reelection campaigns
 
 
SWEENEY STATEMENT ON SENATE PASSAGE OF FY22 BUDGET
 
    TRENTON – Senate President Steve Sweeney issued the following statement on today’s passage by the Senate of the New Jersey State Budget for Fiscal Year 2022 (S2022<https://govnetnj.com/GOV/billinfo?s=2020&b=S2022>):
 
    “This budget represents an important statement to all New Jersey residents: we are primed and ready to rebound from the pandemic. This spending plan makes important new investments that bring tax relief, increase affordability, reduce debt, and enhance the health and safety of residents. It is our state’s blueprint to emerge from the ravages of COVID-19 stronger than ever.
 
    “For those who are still struggling to pay basic bills, the budget sets aside three-quarters of a billion dollars for rental and utility assistance. For middle class families, the plan includes tax credits for families, rebates for homeowners, and investments to help both college students and retirees.
 
    “The plan also safeguards the long-term health of New Jersey itself, with an additional $2.5 billion payment to the underfunded pension plan, more than a billion dollars for a Rainy Day Fund, and a commitment to pay off older, more expensive debt. In addition, it guarantees legislative oversight on how $6.5 billion in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan are spent. In short, this is the epitome of responsible budgeting to benefit future generations.”
 
SPEAKER COUGHLIN STATEMENT ON LEGISLATURE PASSING FY2022 BUDGET
 
    (TRENTON) – Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin (D-Middlesex) released the following statement on the Legislature’s passage of the Fiscal Year 2022 State Budget (A5870<https://govnetnj.com/GOV/billinfo?s=2020&b=A5870>) in the Assembly and Senate on Thursday:
 
    “I’m proud of the work done in partnership with the Governor and Senate President to produce a fair and responsible budget that looks toward greater economic vitality and growth that will benefit every New Jerseyan.
 
    “Thanks to $5 billion in unanticipated revenues, this budget builds beyond the priorities we initially set out to achieve. Our spending supports the best public school education system in the country, puts forth nine meaningful new and expanded tax relief programs for working families, seniors and college students, and fulfills our full pension obligation for the first time in 25 years.
 
    “With a record $6.9 billion toward pensions, over $100 million in new college savings, boosts to school aid by over $650 million, $10 million for anti-hunger efforts, and $500 rebate for 760,000 hard-working families, these are not just line items. These are life-changing contributions that put money back in people’s pockets, keep property taxes in check, and protect those left vulnerable by the pandemic.
 
    “Expanding on our commitments to put New Jersey on a stronger fiscal footing, in this budget we’ve also taken big steps toward major debt payoff with $3.7 billion locked-up for defeasance and lower cost long-term borrowing. Infrastructural capital investment projects as supported by this budget will move us forward on clean energy, safer drinking water, and healthcare access for safer, more equal communities.
 
    “Together our budget forms an incredibly comprehensive and strategic spending plan for New Jersey, and we did it without any new taxes or fees.”
 
OTHER POLITICAL NEWS FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION:
Congratulations Governor Murphy:
Republican governor of Arkansas: ‘Gov. Murphy showed a steady hand of leadership during the pandemic and has proven he can work across the aisle to get things done’
By David Wildstein<https://newjerseyglobe.com/author/david-wildstein/>, June 23 2021 4:35 pm
 
Congratulations President Biden:
 
President Biden and a bipartisan group of senators after an infrastructure package meeting at the White House yesterday. Pete Marovich for The New York Times
 
 
TAKE ACTION: ACCIDENTAL DEATH BENEFIT BILL
 
This week Senate President Sweeney moved a bill through committee to provide accidental death benefits for members of TPAF and PERS who contracted COVID while on the job.
This bill now needs to be voted on by the full Senate before moving to the Assembly. Please be sure to thank him for moving this bill on Wednesday.
 
BILLS THE GOVERNOR HAS TAKEN ACTION ON:
 
 
  *  A4004/S2410 – Establishes Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic Task Force on Racial and Health Disparities. (Monitor)(Signed by the Governor P.L.2021, c.106)
 
  *  A5820/S3866 – Provides for termination of public health emergency declared by Governor to address COVID-19 pandemic, except certain executive orders, directives, and powers will remain in effect temporarily. (Monitor) (Signed by the Governor P.L.2021, c.103)
  *  S3434/A5366 – Requires boards of education to provide special education and related services to certain students exceeding age of eligibility for special education and related services. (Support)( Signed by the Governor P.L.2021, c.109)
 
BILLS ON THE GOVERNOR’S DESK:
 
 
  *    A13/S4000 – Establishes “New Jersey Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund,” appropriates $3.7 billion. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A681/S397 – Expands scope of law prohibiting age discrimination. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A970/S2259 – Establishes Mental Health Screening in Schools Grant Program in DOE; appropriates $1 million. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A1625/S2854 – Directs DOE to develop outreach program to encourage young women and minorities to pursue post-secondary degrees and careers in STEM. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A2311/S356 – Establishes study commission to examine development of mutually beneficial relationships between institutions of higher education and municipalities. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A2455/S2204 – Establishes pilot program in DOE to support FIRST Robotics Programs in school districts. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A4433/S2715 – Creates grant program to encourage school districts to partner with institutions of higher education in training school-based mental health services providers. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A4435/S2717 – Requires DCF to give priority to certain school districts with student mental health counseling centers in awarding grants under School Based Youth Services Program. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A4544/S3150 – Permits school nurse who is retired from TPAF to return to employment for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF. (Oppose) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5343/S3398 – Requires public community water systems to inventory and replace lead service lines within 10 years; provides for recoupment of costs by investor-owned public water systems. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5365/S3872 – Permits parent or guardian to request grade retention for student during 2021-2022 school year. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5539/S3954 – Provides partial pension and retirement income exclusion for taxpayers with income between $100,000 and $150,000. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5597/S3801 – Permits school districts to administer student health surveys after prior written notification to parents and legal guardians. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5882/S3943 – Establishes State supplement for federal summer food service program meals. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5883/S3944 – Establishes State supplement for “breakfast after the bell” meals. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5886/S3959 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for school security projects in certain school districts; appropriates $66,173,243. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5887/S3960 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for water infrastructure projects in certain school districts; appropriates $6,608,212. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5888/S3961 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education at county colleges; appropriates $26,456,996. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  A5889/S3962 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Fund” for career and technical education expansion in county vocational school districts; appropriates $222,904,769. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S225/A679 – Provides that student-athlete who sustains concussion must return to regular school activities prior to return to competition; requires school districts to implement six-step return-to-competition process. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S829/A2135 – Requires property condition disclosure statement to indicate presence of lead plumbing in residential property. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S854/A3394 – “Laura Wooten’s Law”; Requires civics instruction in middle school; authorizes New Jersey Center for Civic Education to provide curricula, professional development and technical assistance for middle and high school civics. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S969/A2687 – Establishes loan redemption program for teachers in certain fields to redeem loan amounts received under New Jersey College Loans to Assist State Students Loan Program through employment in certain low performing schools. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S1147/A1372 – Requires lead paint inspection on certain residential rental property, including upon tenant turnover; establishes lead-based paint hazard education program; appropriates $3,900,000. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S2022/A5870 – Appropriates $46,380,012,000 in State funds and $21,026,030,082 in federal funds for the State budget for fiscal year 2021-2022. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S2160/A5701 – Creates special education unit within the Office of Administrative Law; requires annual report. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S2826/A4594 – Directs DOE to establish five-year pilot program for issuance of limited certificate of eligibility with advanced standing and limited certificate of eligibility for certain teacher candidates. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S2834/A5312 – Mandates training on culturally responsive teaching for all candidates for teaching certification. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S2924/A4663 – Creates two-year “Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program” in Juvenile Justice Commission; appropriates $4.2 million in FY 2022 and FY 2023. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S3253/A2619 – Establishes alternate route to expedite certification of teachers at early college high school programs. (Oppose) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S3654/A5845 – Establishes Amistad Commission Exemplary Award Program; appropriates $10,000. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S3798/A5805 – Eliminates premiums and waiting periods for certain NJ FamilyCare enrollees and directs DHS to implement additional targeted outreach initiatives to increase enrollment. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S3881/A5834 – Extends deadline for completion and filing of annual audit report of school district for 2020-2021 school year; establishes deadline for submission of Audit Summary for 2020-2021 school year. (Oppose) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S3945/A5884 – Establishes Office of Food Insecurity Advocate. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  S3995/A5944 – Establishes School and Small Business Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Fund in BPU. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
  *  SJR109/AJR208 – Condemns hate and violent extremism and commits to defense of safe and just democracy. (Support) (Passed in both houses; sent to Governor)
 
RESULTS FROM THURSDAY, JUNE 24:
 
 
  *  A13/S4000 – Establishes “New Jersey Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund,” appropriates $3.7 billion. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A1372 – Requires lead paint inspection prior to home purchases and tenant turnover; establishes educational program on lead hazards. (Support)(Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A1459 – Prohibits the sale of certain children’s products containing lead, mercury, or cadmium. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A169/S108 – Concerns speech rights of student journalists at public schools and public institutions of higher education. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A192 – Establishes “New Jersey STEM Scholars Grant Pilot Program” in Department of Education. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A2134/S830 – Requires public water systems to offer drinking water tests to customers in certain circumstances. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A2135/S829 – Requires property condition disclosure statement to indicate presence of lead plumbing in residential property. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A2619/S3253 – Establishes alternate route to expedite certification of teachers at early college high school programs. (Oppose) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A2687/S969 – Establishes loan redemption program for teachers in certain fields to redeem loan amounts received under New Jersey College Loans to Assist State Students Loan Program through employment in certain low performing schools. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A2957 – Establishes task force to examine issues and make recommendations concerning youth sports, including abusive coaching, confrontational parents, and bullying of players. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A3027 – Commits $3 million from Supplemental Workforce Fund for Basic Skill to NJ Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development. (Monitor) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A3149/S84 – Requires institutions of higher education and public and nonpublic high schools and middle schools to adopt anti-hazing policies; expands activities encompassing criminal hazing and upgrades penalties for engaging in these activities. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A4434/S2716 – Establishes Student Wellness Grant Program in DOE. (Support) (Passed in Senate)
  *  A4435/S2717 – Requires DCF to give priority to certain school districts with student mental health counseling centers in awarding grants under School Based Youth Services Program. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A4517/S2766 – Requires Civil Service Commission establish mentoring program for certain civil service law enforcement applicants. (Support)(Passed in Assembly)
  *  A4542/S2765 – Requires Civil Services Commission to undertake various initiatives to increase diversity and inclusivity within law enforcement agencies. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A4598/S2767 – Establishes database to aid in civil service hiring process for certain law enforcement officers; requires Statewide diversity analysis of law enforcement. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A4663/S2924 – Creates two-year “Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program” in Juvenile Justice Commission; appropriates $4.2 million in FY 2022 and FY 2023. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A4906 – Allows minors to serve as election workers between 5:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on elections days. (Monitor) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A5343 – Requires public community water systems to inventory and replace lead service lines within 10 years; provides for recoupment of costs by investor-owned public water systems. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5365/S3872 – Permits parent or guardian to request grade retention for student during 2021-2022 school year. (Monitor) (Passed both houses; sent to Governor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5539/S3954 – Provides partial pension and retirement income exclusion for taxpayers with income between $100,000 and $150,000. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5597/S3801 – Permits school districts to administer student health surveys after prior written notification to parents and legal guardians. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5701/S2160 – Creates special education unit within the Office of Administrative Law; requires annual report. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5805/S3798 – Eliminates premiums and waiting periods for certain NJ FamilyCare enrollees; directs DHS to implement additional targeted outreach initiatives to increase enrollment; revises reporting requirements; appropriates $20 million. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5814 – Creates School Bus Safety Ombudsman position in, but not of, Department of Education. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A5818 – Provides for debarment of school bus contractors for certain violations; requires certain information in pupil transportation contract bid. (Support) (Passed in Assembly)
  *  A5834/S3881 – Extends deadline for completion and filing of annual audit report of school district for 2020-2021 school year; establishes deadline for submission of Audit Summary for 2020-2021 school year. (Oppose)(Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5862/S- “Responsible Collective Negotiations Act.” (Seek amendments)(No action)
  *  A5870/S2022 – Appropriates $46,380,012,000 in State funds and $21,026,030,082 in federal funds for the State budget for fiscal year 2021-2022. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5882/S3943 – Establishes State supplement for federal summer food service program meals. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5883/S3944 – Establishes State supplement for “breakfast after the bell” meals. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5884/S3945 – Establishes Office of Food Insecurity Advocate. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5886/S3959 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for school security projects in certain school districts; appropriates $66,173,243. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5887/S3960 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for water infrastructure projects in certain school districts; appropriates $6,608,212. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5888/S3961 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education at county colleges; appropriates $26,456,996. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5889/S3962 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Fund” for career and technical education expansion in county vocational school districts; appropriates $222,904,769. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A5994/S3995 – Establishes School and Small Business Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Fund in BPU. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
 
RESULTS FROM TUESDAY, JUNE 22:
 
 
  *  A1372/S1147 – Requires lead paint inspection on certain residential rental property, including upon tenant turnover; establishes lead-based paint hazard education program; appropriates $3,900,000. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee substitute, 2nd reading in Assembly and Senate)
  *  A2135/S829 – Requires property condition disclosure statement to indicate presence of lead plumbing in residential property. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5365/S3872 – Permits parent or guardian to request grade retention for student during 2021-2022 school year. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A5539/S3954 – Provides partial pension and retirement income exclusion for taxpayers with income between $100,000 and $150,000. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly and Senate)
  *  A5805/S3798 – Eliminates premiums and waiting periods for certain NJ FamilyCare enrollees; directs DHS to implement additional targeted outreach initiatives to increase enrollment; revises reporting requirements; appropriates $20 million. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly and Senate)
  *  A5814 – Creates School Bus Safety Ombudsman position in, but not of, Department of Education. (Support) (Transferred to Assembly Budget Committee. Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5862 – “Responsible Collective Negotiations Act.” (Seek Amendments) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5870/S2022 – Appropriates $46,380,012,000 in State funds and $21,026,030,082 in federal funds for the State budget for fiscal year 2021-2022. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly and Senate)
  *  A5944/S3995 – Establishes School and Small Business Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program Fund in BPU. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly and Senate)
  *  A5886/S3959 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for school security projects in certain school districts; appropriates $66,173,243. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A5887/S3960 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for water infrastructure projects in certain school districts; appropriates $6,608,212. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A5888/S3961 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education at county colleges; appropriates $26,456,996. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A5889/S3962 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Fund” for career and technical education expansion in county vocational school districts; appropriates $222,904,769. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S793 – Commits $3 million from Supplemental Workforce Fund for Basic Skill to NJ Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3284 – Provides for accidental death benefit if death of TPAF member and certain PERS members is caused by COVID-19. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3617 – Establishes School Funding Formula Evaluation Task Force. (Seek Amendments) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
 
RESULTS FROM MONDAY, JUNE 21:
 
 
  *  A679/S225 – Provides that student-athlete who sustains concussion must return to regular school activities prior to return to competition; requires school districts to implement six-step return-to-competition process. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A681/S397 – Expands scope of law prohibiting age discrimination. (Support) (Passed in Senate and sent to Governor)
  *  A1385/S970 – Requires members of governing boards of public institutions of higher education to complete training program developed by institution in consultation with Secretary of Higher Education. (Monitor) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A1599 – Requires public school students with concussion to be evaluated by licensed health care professionals before return to school; requires school districts to provide restrictions or limitations to student as needed. (Support) (Passed in Assembly; referred to Senate Education Committee)
  *  A1971 – Directs BPU to develop and implement electric school bus pilot program. (Seek Amendments) (Passed in Assembly; referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee)
  *  A2311/S356 – Establishes study commission to examine development of mutually beneficial relationships between institutions of higher education and municipalities. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A3007 – Requires institutions of higher education to provide students with access to mental health care programs and services and to establish a hotline to provide information concerning the availability of those services. (Support) (Passed in Assembly; referred to Senate Higher Education Committee)
  *  A3149/S84/S2093 – Increases penalty for hazing; clarifies that prohibited conduct includes causing, coercing, or forcing consumption of alcohol or drugs. (Support)
  *  (Amended on Assembly floor, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4433/S2715 – Creates grant program to encourage school districts to partner with institutions of higher education in training school-based mental health services providers. (Support) (Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A4434/S2716 – Establishes Student Wellness Grant Program in DOE. (Support) (Amended on Senate floor, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A4436/S555/S2718 – Establishes “Student Mental Health Task Force” to study resources available to schools and parents to address student mental health needs. (Support) (Passed in Senate; received in Assembly, 2nd reading in Assembly to concur with Senate amendments)
  *  A4544/S3150 – Permits school nurse who is retired from TPAF to return to employment for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF. (Oppose)(Passed in both houses and sent to Governor)
  *  A4517 /S2766 – Requires Civil Service Commission establish mentoring program for minority civil service law enforcement applicants. (Support) (Amended on Assembly floor, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4542/S2765 – Requires Civil Services Commission to undertake various initiatives to increase diversity and inclusivity within law enforcement agencies. (Support) (Amended on Assembly floor, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4594/S2826 – Directs DOE to establish five-year pilot program for issuance of limited certificate of eligibility with advanced standing and limited certificate of eligibility for certain teacher candidates. (Monitor) (Passed in Assembly and sent to Governor)
  *  A4598/S2767 – Establishes oversight database to aid in civil service hiring process for law enforcement officers; requires Statewide diversity analysis of law enforcement. (Support) (Amended on Assembly floor, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4906 – Allows minors to serve as election workers between 5:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on elections days. (Monitor) (Amended on Assembly floor, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5312/S2834 – Mandates training on culturally responsive teaching for all candidates for teaching certification. (Support) (Passed in Assembly and sent to Governor)
  *  A5343/S3398 – Requires public community water systems to inventory and replace lead service lines within 10 years; provides for recoupment of costs by investor-owned public water systems. (Support) (Passed in Senate; received in Assembly, 2nd reading in Assembly to concur with Senate amendments)
  *  A5537/S3488 – Modifies certain procedures pertaining to school district regionalization; establishes grant program for cost reimbursement of conducting regionalization feasibility studies; and provides financial incentives for regionalization. (Support)(Passed in Assembly; received in Senate, 2nd reading in Senate to concur with Assembly amendments)
  *  A5817 – Revises violation and fines for approving or assigning unauthorized individuals as school bus drivers. (Monitor) (Passed in Assembly; received in Senate w/o committee reference, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A5818 – Provides for debarment of school bus contractors for certain violations; requires certain information in pupil transportation contract bid. (Support) (Amended on Assembly floor, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5825/S3487 – Changes effective date of Garden State Health Plan; exempts certain charter and renaissance schools from certain healthcare plan requirements; requires certain negotiations over certain health care costs. (Support) (Passed in Assembly; received in Senate w/o committee reference, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A5845/S3654 – Establishes Amistad Commission Exemplary Award Program; appropriates $10,000. (Support) (Passed in Assembly and sent to Governor)
  *  A5886/S3959 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for school security projects in certain school districts; appropriates $66,173,243. (Monitor) (Passed in Assembly; referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee)
  *  A5887/S3960 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for water infrastructure projects in certain school districts; appropriates $6,608,212. (Monitor) (Passed in Assembly; referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee)
  *  A5888/S3961 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education at county colleges; appropriates $26,456,996. (Monitor) (Passed in Assembly; referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee)
  *  A5889/S3962 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education expansion in county vocational school districts; appropriates $222,904,769. (Monitor) (Passed in Assembly; referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee)
  *  S990 – Requires school district to provide information to DOE on various aspects of computer science courses. (Monitor) (Passed in Senate; referred to Assembly Education Committee)
  *  S1230 – Establishes “New Jersey Higher Education Funding Formula Commission.” (Support) (Passed in Senate; referred to Assembly Higher Education Committee)
  *  S2924 – Creates two-year “Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program” in Juvenile Justice Commission focused on reducing youth involvement with youth justice system; appropriates $8.4 million in FY 2021 and FY 2022. (Support) (Passed in Senate; received in Assembly w/o committee reference, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  S3033 – Establishes School and Small Business Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program in BPU. (Support) (Bill held)
  *  S3213 – Establishes New Jersey Community Learning Program in DOE to provide comprehensive extended learning time programs in certain communities; dedicates portion of State cannabis revenue to support program. (Support) (Passed in Senate; referred to Assembly Education Committee)
  *  S3810 – “Responsible Collective Negotiations Act.” (Seek Amendments) (Amended on Senate floor, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3849 – Provides for debarment of school bus contractors for certain violations; requires certain information in pupil transportation contract bid. (Support) (Amended on Senate floor, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3881 – Extends deadline for completion and filing of annual audit report of school district for 2020-2021 school year; establishes deadline for submission of Audit Summary for 2020-2021 school year. (Oppose)(Passed in Senate; Received in Assembly w/o committee reference, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  S3685 – Permits teacher and professional staff member who provides special services retired from TPAF to return to employment for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF if employment commences during state of emergency for COVID-19 pandemic. (Monitor) (Passed in Senate; referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee)
  *  S3943 – Establishes State supplement for federal summer food service program meals. (Support) (Amended on Senate floor, 2nd reading in Senate)
 
RESULTS FROM THURSDAY, JUNE 17:
 
 
  *  A4433/S2715 – Creates grant program to encourage school districts to partner with institutions of higher education in training school-based mental health services providers. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A4434/S2716 – Establishes Student Wellness Grant Program in DOE. (Support)
  *  (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A4436/S555/S2718 – Establishes “Student Mental Health Task Force” to study resources available to schools and parents to address student mental health needs. (Support) (S555 combined with S2718; Reported out of committee with committee substitute, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A5343/S3398 – Requires public community water systems to inventory and replace lead service lines within 10 years; provides for recoupment of costs by investor-owned public water systems. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S2924 – Creates two-year “Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program” in Juvenile Justice Commission focused on reducing youth involvement with youth justice system; appropriates $8.4 million in FY 2021 and FY 2022. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3637 – “New Jersey Retirement Infrastructure Collateralized Holdings Fund Act”; creates trust fund for conveyance of certain assets for benefit of State-administered retirement systems; requires remediation of emergent conditions for certain public assets; (Monitor) (Bill held)
  *  S3685 – Permits school teacher who is retired from TPAF to return to employment during public health emergency and state of emergency for COVID-19 pandemic, for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF. (Monitor)
  *  (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3881 – Extends deadline for completion and filing of annual audit report of school district for 2020-2021 school year; establishes deadline for submission of Audit Summary for 2020-2021 school year. (Oppose) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3943 – Establishes State supplement for federal summer food service program meals. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3944 – Establishes State supplement for “breakfast after the bell” meals. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3945 – Establishes Office of Food Insecurity Advocate. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3959 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for school security projects in certain school districts; appropriates $66,173,243. (Monitor) (Bill held)
  *  S3960 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for water infrastructure projects in certain school districts; appropriates $6,608,212. (Monitor) (Bill held)
  *  S3961 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education at county colleges; appropriates $26,456,996. (Monitor) (Bill held)
  *  S3962 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education expansion in county vocational school districts; appropriates $222,904,769. (Monitor) (Bill held)
 
WHEN IS THE LEGISLATURE MEETING AGAIN? (The Senate says they’re back on June 30th and they have indicated they will not be back until November.)
 
  *  Wednesday, June 30              Assembly/Senate Voting
 
 
 
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Al Beaver
Director – NJEA Government Relations
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
NEW JERSEY EDUCATION ASSOCIATION
180 W. State St.
Trenton, NJ 08607
p: 609-310-4363
f:  609-394-3355
 
 
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Patricia Robbins
Office Manager , Somerset County Education Association
1140 Route 22 East, Suite 100
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Telephone: (908) 393-9000  Fax: (908) 393-9007
 

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Legislative Update June 17, 2021

 
 
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE, JUNE 17
 
Happy budget season!  Everything gets crammed in.  Remember that after June, the legislature won’t be doing much business until after election day.  Yesterday was a marathon Assembly Appropriations Committee, with over 80 bills being considered.  The hearing started at 10:30 and still wasn’t completed by 2:00 pm.  Monday promises to be a marathon voting session day as well.  Assembly staffers were joking about having removed 20 bills from the list – and it still had over 120 bills on it.  (And remember that when you look at the list of bills below, it is only the ones we are following.  There are a lot more on the list.)
 
As is typical in a budget season, the legislature is bickering over what the budget will look like.  But the atypical this year?  They can’t figure out what to do with all the extra money they have.  Remember a year ago, it was gloom and doom.  The treasurer was foreseeing deficits over $10 billion in two years.  The state did a mini-budget of three months.  Funding for programs was flat or even cut.
 
Now?  Now, between federal funds and the recovering economy that never hit rock bottom as expected, the state has more money than it knows what to do with – around $11 billion more.  Treasury is expecting a tax windfall – $4 billion above projected tax revenue this year, and an extra projected $1 billion in Fiscal Year 22, along with the $6 billion in ARPA funds.
 
 
Talk was that the budget would be done on June 21.  But clearly, without a budget bill scheduled in committee, that is not happening.  Now the talk is of June 24.  This year won’t be like previous years, with lobbyists and legislative staff sitting around late into the night.  The statehouse is not yet open to the public, so you can watch the marathon sessions at the legislature’s website (www.njleg.org<https://www.njleg.org>).
 
In non-budget news, Governor Murphy signed S3434/A5366, the bill that would extend special education services a year for some students who are aging out of the system.  https://www.inquirer.com/news/nj-education-special-needs-bill-extended-year-governor-phil-murphy-20210616.html
 
Below are the lists of bills to be considered today and Monday.  This list is current as of this morning.  Bills will be added and subtracted even as the committee hearing and voting session happen.  It’s budget season!  Results from this week and last week follow.
 
BILLS TO BE CONSIDERED THURSDAY, JUNE 17
 
  *  A4433/S2715 – Creates grant program to encourage school districts to partner with institutions of higher education in training school-based mental health services providers. (Support)
  *  A4434/S2716 – Establishes Student Wellness Grant Program in DOE. (Support)
  *  A4436/S555/S2718 – Establishes “Student Mental Health Task Force” to study resources available to schools and parents to address student mental health needs. (Support)
  *  A5343/S3398 – Requires public community water systems to inventory and replace lead service lines within 10 years; provides for recoupment of costs by investor-owned public water systems. (Support)
  *  S2924 – Creates two-year “Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program” in Juvenile Justice Commission focused on reducing youth involvement with youth justice system; appropriates $8.4 million in FY 2021 and FY 2022. (Support)
  *  S3637 – “New Jersey Retirement Infrastructure Collateralized Holdings Fund Act”; creates trust fund for conveyance of certain assets for benefit of State-administered retirement systems; requires remediation of emergent conditions for certain public assets; (Monitor)
  *  S3685 – Permits school teacher who is retired from TPAF to return to employment during public health emergency and state of emergency for COVID-19 pandemic, for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF. (Monitor)
  *  S3881 – Extends deadline for completion and filing of annual audit report of school district for 2020-2021 school year; establishes deadline for submission of Audit Summary for 2020-2021 school year. (Oppose)
  *  S3943 – Establishes State supplement for federal summer food service program meals. (Support)
  *  S3944 – Establishes State supplement for “breakfast after the bell” meals. (Support)
  *  S3945 – Establishes Office of Food Insecurity Advocate. (Support)
  *  S3959 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for school security projects in certain school districts; appropriates $66,173,243. (Monitor)
  *  S3960 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for water infrastructure projects in certain school districts; appropriates $6,608,212. (Monitor)
  *  S3961 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education at county colleges; appropriates $26,456,996. (Monitor)
  *  S3962 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education expansion in county vocational school districts; appropriates $222,904,769. (Monitor)
 
BILLS TO BE CONSIDERED MONDAY, JUNE 21
 
  *  A679/S225 – Provides that student-athlete who sustains concussion must return to regular school activities prior to return to competition; requires school districts to implement six-step return-to-competition process. (Support)
  *  A681/S397 – Expands scope of law prohibiting age discrimination. (Support)
  *  A1385/S970 – Requires members of governing boards of public institutions of higher education to complete training program developed by institution in consultation with Secretary of Higher Education. (Monitor)
  *  A1599 – Requires public school students with concussion to be evaluated by licensed health care professionals before return to school; requires school districts to provide restrictions or limitations to student as needed. (Support)
  *  A1971 – Directs BPU to develop and implement electric school bus pilot program. (Seek Amendments)
  *  A2311/S356 – Establishes study commission to examine development of mutually beneficial relationships between institutions of higher education and municipalities.
  *  A3149/S84/S2093 – Increases penalty for hazing; clarifies that prohibited conduct includes causing, coercing, or forcing consumption of alcohol or drugs. (Support)
  *  A4433/S2715 – Creates grant program to encourage school districts to partner with institutions of higher education in training school-based mental health services providers. (Support)
  *  A4434/S2716 – Establishes Student Wellness Grant Program in DOE. (Support)
  *  A4436/S555/S2718 – Establishes “Student Mental Health Task Force” to study resources available to schools and parents to address student mental health needs. (Support)
  *  A4544/S3150 – Permits school nurse who is retired from TPAF to return to employment for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF. (Oppose)
  *  A4517 /S2766 – Requires Civil Service Commission establish mentoring program for minority civil service law enforcement applicants. (Support)
  *  A4542/S2765 – Requires Civil Services Commission to undertake various initiatives to increase diversity and inclusivity within law enforcement agencies. (Support)
  *  A4594/S2826 – Directs DOE to establish five-year pilot program for issuance of limited certificate of eligibility with advanced standing and limited certificate of eligibility for certain teacher candidates. (Monitor)
  *  A4598/S2767 – Establishes oversight database to aid in civil service hiring process for law enforcement officers; requires Statewide diversity analysis of law enforcement. (Support)
  *  A4906 – Allows minors to serve as election workers between 5:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on elections days. (Monitor)
  *  A5312/S2834 – Mandates training on culturally responsive teaching for all candidates for teaching certification. (Support)
  *  A5343/S3398 – Requires public community water systems to inventory and replace lead service lines within 10 years; provides for recoupment of costs by investor-owned public water systems. (Support)
  *  A5537/S3488 – Modifies certain procedures pertaining to school district regionalization; establishes grant program for cost reimbursement of conducting regionalization feasibility studies; and provides financial incentives for regionalization. (Support)
  *  A5817 – Revises violation and fines for approving or assigning unauthorized individuals as school bus drivers. (Monitor)
  *  A5825 – Changes effective date of Garden State Health Plan; exempts certain charter and renaissance schools from certain healthcare plan requirements; requires certain negotiations over certain health care costs. (Support)
  *  A5845/S3654 – Establishes Amistad Commission Exemplary Award Program; appropriates $10,000. (Support)
  *  A5886/S3959 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for school security projects in certain school districts; appropriates $66,173,243. (Monitor)
  *  A5887/S3960 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for water infrastructure projects in certain school districts; appropriates $6,608,212. (Monitor)
  *  A5888/S3961 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education at county colleges; appropriates $26,456,996. (Monitor)
  *  A5889/S3962 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education expansion in county vocational school districts; appropriates $222,904,769. (Monitor)
  *  S990 – Requires school district to provide information to DOE on various aspects of computer science courses. (Monitor)
  *  S2924 – Creates two-year “Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program” in Juvenile Justice Commission focused on reducing youth involvement with youth justice system; appropriates $8.4 million in FY 2021 and FY 2022. (Support)
  *  S3033 – Establishes School and Small Business Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program in BPU. (Support)
  *  S3213 – Establishes New Jersey Community Learning Program in DOE to provide comprehensive extended learning time programs in certain communities; dedicates portion of State cannabis revenue to support program. (Support)
  *  S3637 – “New Jersey Retirement Infrastructure Collateralized Holdings Fund Act”; creates trust fund for conveyance of certain assets for benefit of State-administered retirement systems; requires remediation of emergent conditions for certain public assets; (Monitor)
  *  S3881 – Extends deadline for completion and filing of annual audit report of school district for 2020-2021 school year; establishes deadline for submission of Audit Summary for 2020-2021 school year. (Oppose)
  *  S3943 – Establishes State supplement for federal summer food service program meals. (Support)
  *  S3944 – Establishes State supplement for “breakfast after the bell” meals. (Support)
  *  S3945 – Establishes Office of Food Insecurity Advocate. (Support)
 
RESULTS FROM WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16
 
  *  A653/A954/A1669 – Provides that purchase of insulin is not subject to deductible and requires health insurers to limit copayments and coinsurance for insulin. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A1971 – Directs BPU to develop and implement electric school bus pilot program. (Seek Amendments) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A2687/S969 – Establishes loan redemption program for teachers in certain fields to redeem loan amounts received under New Jersey College Loans to Assist State Students Loan Program through employment in certain low performing schools. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A2957 – Establishes task force to examine issues and make recommendations concerning youth sports, including abusive coaching, confrontational parents, and bullying of players. (Support)
  *  (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A3149/S84/S2093 – Increases penalty for hazing; clarifies that prohibited conduct includes causing, coercing, or forcing consumption of alcohol or drugs. (Support)
  *  (Reported out of committee with committee substitute, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4517/S2766 – Requires Civil Service Commission establish mentoring program for minority civil service law enforcement applicants. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4542/S2765 – Requires Civil Services Commission to undertake various initiatives to increase diversity and inclusivity within law enforcement agencies. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4598/S2767 – Establishes oversight database to aid in civil service hiring process for law enforcement officers; requires Statewide diversity analysis of law enforcement. (Support)
  *  (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4663 – Creates two-year “Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program” in Juvenile Justice Commission; appropriates $4.2 million in FY 2022 and FY 2023. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5537/S3488 – Modifies certain procedures pertaining to school district regionalization; establishes grant program for cost reimbursement of conducting regionalization feasibility studies; and provides financial incentives for regionalization. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5701/S2610 – Creates special education unit within the Office of Administrative Law; requires annual report. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5817 – Revises violation and fines for approving or assigning unauthorized individuals as school bus drivers. (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly) (Monitor)
  *  A5825 – Changes effective date of Garden State Health Plan; exempts certain charter and renaissance schools from certain healthcare plan requirements; requires certain negotiations over certain health care costs. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5834 – Extends deadline for completion and filing of annual audit report of school district for 2020-2021 school year; establishes deadline for submission of Audit Summary for 2020-2021 school year. (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly) (Oppose)
  *  A5845/S3654 – Establishes Amistad Commission Exemplary Award Program; appropriates $10,000. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5882 – Establishes State supplement for federal summer food service program meals. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5883 – Establishes State supplement for “breakfast after the bell” meals. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5884 – Establishes Office of Food Insecurity Advocate. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5886 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for school security projects in certain school districts; appropriates $66,173,243. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5887 – Awards project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for water infrastructure projects in certain school districts; appropriates $6,608,212. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5888 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Future Fund” for career and technical education at county colleges; appropriates $26,456,996. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5889 – Provides project grants under “Securing Our Children’s Fund” for career and technical education expansion in county vocational school districts; appropriates $222,904,769. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5896 – Authorizes supplemental State aid to school districts receiving certain federal Impact Aid; makes appropriation. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
 
RESULTS FROM TUESDAY, JUNE 15
 
  *  S1230 – Establishes “New Jersey Higher Education Funding Formula Commission.” (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
 
RESULTS FROM MONDAY, JUNE 14
 
  *  ACR216 – Condemns all forms of anti-Semitism and rejects attempts to justify anti-Jewish hatred. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee substitute, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5814 – Creates School Bus Safety Ombudsman position in, but not of, Department of Education. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  A5818 – Provides for debarment of school bus contractors for certain violations; requires certain information in pupil transportation contract bid. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee substitute, 2nd reading in Assembly)
 
RESULTS FROM THURSDAY, JUNE 10
 
  *  A5597/S3801 – Permits school districts to administer student health surveys after prior written notification to parents and legal guardians. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
 
  *  S837 – Requires health insurance companies to cover lead screenings for children 16 years of age or younger. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S1715 – Requires new flooring for schools and child care centers to be certified mercury free. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3257 – Establishes Task Force for the Development of Universal Child Care. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3352 – Concerns unlawful discrimination and harassment. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee with committee substitute, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3580 – Provides certain resources to county prosecutors for enforcement of law regarding failure to pay wages; makes appropriation. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3798 – Eliminates premiums and waiting periods for certain NJ FamilyCare enrollees; directs DHS to implement additional targeted outreach initiatives to increase enrollment; revises reporting requirements; appropriates $20 million. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3810 – “Responsible Collective Negotiations Act.” (Seek Amendments) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3827 – Provides temporary paid earned sick leave to workers during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3849  Provides for debarment of school bus contractors for certain violations; requires certain information in pupil transportation contract bid. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3851  Creates School Bus Safety Ombudsman position in, but not of, Department of Education. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3852  Revises violation and fines for approving or assigning unauthorized individuals as school bus drivers. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
 
RESULTS FROM WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9
 
  *  A2619/S3253 – Establishes alternate route to expedite certification of teachers at early college high school programs. (Oppose) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
 
  *  A2687/S969 – Establishes loan redemption program for teachers in certain fields to redeem loan amounts received under New Jersey College Loans to Assist State Students Loan Program through employment in certain low performing schools. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee substitute, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
 
  *  A4594/S2826 – Directs DOE to establish five-year pilot program for issuance of limited certificate of eligibility with advanced standing and limited certificate of eligibility for certain teacher candidates. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
 
  *  A4838/S2811 – Requires school report card to include information concerning number of mental health professionals and security personnel employed by each school district. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5312/S2834 – Mandates training on culturally responsive teaching for all candidates for teaching certification. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5500 – Expands duties of Commission on Human Trafficking to prevent human trafficking in women and children of color. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5501 – Requires AG to establish Human Trafficking and Underserved Communities Unit. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5537/S3488 – Modifies certain procedures pertaining to school district regionalization; establishes grant program for cost reimbursement of conducting regionalization feasibility studies; and provides financial incentives for regionalization. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  A5825 – Changes effective date of Garden State Health Plan and provides open enrollment period; exempts certain charter schools from certain healthcare plan requirements. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  A5834 – Extends deadline for completion and filing of annual audit report of school district for 2020-2021 school year; establishes deadline for submission of Audit Summary for 2020-2021 school year. (Oppose) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
 
WHEN IS THE LEGISLATURE MEETING AGAIN? (subject to change, especially if the budget vote is early)
 
 
  *  Thursday, June 17                  Senate Committees at the call of the President
  *  Monday, June 14                    Assembly Committees at the call of the Speaker
  *  Tuesday, June 15                    Senate Committees at the call of the President
  *  Wednesday, June 16              Assembly Committees at the call of the Speaker
  *  Thursday, June 17                  Senate Committees at the call of the President
  *  Monday, June 21                    Assembly/Senate Voting
  *  Thursday, June 24                  Assembly/Senate Voting
  *  Monday, June 28                    Assembly/Senate Voting
  *  Tuesday, June 29                    Assembly/Senate Voting
  *  Wednesday, June 30              Assembly/Senate Voting
 
[New Jersey Education Association]<https://www.njea.org/>
 
Francine Pfeffer
Associate Director
 
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
 
180 W. State Street
Trenton, NJ 08607-1211
 
p: 609-599-4561 x 2326
c: 732-280-8324
f: 609-394-3355
 
 

—

Patricia Robbins
Office Manager , Somerset County Education Association
1140 Route 22 East, Suite 100
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Telephone: (908) 393-9000  Fax: (908) 393-9007

Legislative Update May 19, 2021

 
 
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE, MAY 19
 
TAKE ACTION!
 
 
  *  Urge Gov. Murphy, acting Commissioner Allen-McMillan, and the State Board of Education to eliminate the sitting requirement to access the portfolio process: https://actioncenter.njea.org/njdoe-and-state-board-aim-to-further-restrict-access-to-graduation-have-your-voice-heard/
  *  Faculty members at the County College of Morris are still looking for their jobs to be reinstated.  Take action:
  *  Also take action on enhanced death benefits for COVID-19.  Assemblyman Wimberly and Senator Greenstein have introduced legislation that would provide accidental death benefits to educators who worked in-person and died from COVID-19.  We believe this legislation may see movement next month.  Ask your legislators to co-sponsor this legislation: https://actioncenter.njea.org/ask-your-legislators-to-co-sponsor-accidental-death-benefits-for-covid-19/
 
IN THIS UPDATE
 
 
  *  STATE BUDGET
  *  IS THE HEALTH EMERGENCY OVER?
  *  BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW SINCE THE LAST UPDATE
  *  SESSION DAY RESULTS
  *  BILLS TO BE CONSIDERED
  *  WHEN IS THE LEGISLATURE MEETING AGAIN?
 
STATE BUDGET
 
Sometime in May, budget break ends as the legislature starts to meet again.  The legislature started meetings again about two weeks ago, with Senate committees meeting in-person and Assembly committee meetings still on zoom.  The first Assembly voting session post-budget break will be tomorrow, with the Senate tentatively scheduled for June 3.  (The legislature is off the week before Memorial Day.)
 
News for the state budget just gets better and better.  Twice during budget season, the state treasurer and the Office of Legislative Services (known as OLS, this is the non-partisan office that does research for members of the legislature) present their budget forecasts.  The treasurer and OLS presented their forecasts to the Assembly on Monday and will present them to the Senate on Thursday.  You can read about Monday’s hearing here: https://www.njspotlight.com/2021/05/state-treasurer-says-revenue-forecasts-could-be-increased-by-hundreds-of-millions-by-june-budget-update/. Word on the street is that the budget will be done early in June this year, without much controversy.
 
And if you didn’t try this already – I know some of you did — try to balance the budget with this tool from NJSpotlight:  https://www.njspotlight.com/2021/04/nj-budget-2021-interactive-tool-calculator-tax-spend-balance-try-your-hand/
 
IS THE HEALTH EMERGENCY OVER?
 
This week, the Assembly heard a bill that would end the Coronavirus health emergency while allowing the governor to keep some emergency powers:  https://www.njspotlight.com/2021/05/murphy-emergency-health-powers-extend-legislation-democrats-gop-nj/
 
Governor Murphy announced that schools will be open full-time next year for in-person learning.  https://www.nj.com/education/2021/05/nj-parents-must-send-kids-to-in-person-school-this-fall-murphy-says.html.
 
Look at these three articles from John Mooney at NJSpotlight about school reopening:
 
And this article about the importance of arts and athletics in the fall:
 
 
 
BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW SINCE THE LAST UPDATE
 
  *  S968 – Requires public water systems to provide notice of elevated lead levels in drinking water to customers and local officials; requires landlords to notify tenants of elevated lead levels. (Support)
  *  S2486 – Establishes Clayton Model Pilot Program in DOE to provide school-based social emotional learning to students in grades kindergarten through five at certain public schools. (Support)
  *  S2832 – Allows student enrolled in institution of higher education who has completed 30 semester-hour credits to serve as substitute teacher; extends time period substitute teacher may serve during public health emergency. (Support)
  *  A1070 – Requires Secretary of Higher Education to develop guidance for institutions of higher education to identify cultural barriers in recruitment and retention of underrepresented students for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs. (Support)
  *  A4461 – Requires State to enter into contract and coordinate with certain cooperative purchasing systems for procurement of COVID-19 related goods and services by school districts. (Support)
  *  A3548 – Requires health benefits coverage for adolescent depression screenings. (Support)
  *  S989- “Healthy Terminals Act”; requires certain airport and train station workers to be paid certain wage rates and benefits. (Support)
 
 
BILLS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, MAY 5
 
  *  A3149 – Increases penalty for hazing; clarifies that prohibited conduct includes causing, coercing, or forcing consumption of alcohol or drugs. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  A4663 – Creates two-year “Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program” in Juvenile Justice Commission; appropriates $4.2 million in FY 2022 and FY 2023. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  S84/S2093 – “Timothy J. Piazza’s Law”; expands scope of hazing activities and increases penalties for hazing resulting in injury; requires institutions of higher education, and public and nonpublic high schools and middle schools to adopt anti-hazing policies. (Support) (Reported out of committee, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  A246 – Authorizes county colleges to establish and operate student dormitories. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5232 – Requires public institutions of higher education to take various actions to improve campus diversity and directs Secretary of Higher Education to develop guidance regarding diversity in faculty search and selection process. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
 
BILLS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE THURSDAY, MAY 6
 
  *  A681/S397 – Expands scope of law prohibiting age discrimination. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S991 – Requires owner or operator of certain trains to have discharge response, cleanup, and contingency plans to transport certain hazardous materials by rail; requires DEP to request bridge inspection reports from US DOT. (Support) (Reported out of committee, referred to Senate Budget Committee)
  *  S3378 – Requires MVC to conduct unscheduled surprise inspections of certain school buses. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, referred to Senate Budget Committee)
 
BILLS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, MAY 11
 
  *  S697 – Authorizes common law public nuisance suits regarding lead paint under State law; exempts Attorney General from certain aspects of public nuisance claims when pursuing lead paint actions. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  SR91 – Urges Congress to address in future federal higher education stimulus legislation inequities in incorporation of part-time and online learning students in formula calculation. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
 
BILLS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE THURSDAY, MAY 12
 
  *  A679/S225 – Provides that student athlete who sustains concussion must return to regular school activities prior to return to competition; requires school districts to implement six step return to competition process. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A1599 – Requires public school students with concussion to be evaluated by licensed health care professionals before return to school; requires school districts to provide restrictions or limitations to student as needed. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A1971 – Directs BPU to develop and implement electric school bus pilot program. (Seek Amendments) (Reported out of committee, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  A2300 – Requires apportionment of membership on certain regional district boards of education to be based on amount of district costs apportioned to each constituent municipality. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A2763 – “New Voter Empowerment Act”; permits 17 year olds to vote in primary election if they turn 18 years old before next succeeding general election. (No Position) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A3369 – Establishes Commission on Asian Heritage in DOE. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4693 – Prohibits school official from using district resources to influence any partisan or nonpartisan election. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5365 – Permits parent or guardian to request grade retention for student during 2021 2022 school year. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A5366/S3434 – Requires boards of education to provide special education and related services to certain students exceeding age of eligibility for special education and related services. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
  *  A5701 – Creates special education unit within the Office of Administrative Law; requires annual report. (Support) (Reported out of committee, referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee)
 
BILLS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE THURSDAY, MAY 13
 
  *  A2455/S2204 – Establishes pilot program in DOE to support FIRST Robotics Programs in school districts. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A4433/S2715 – Creates grant program to encourage school districts to partner with institutions of higher education in training school-based mental health services providers. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A4434/S2716 – Establishes Student Wellness Grant Program in DOE. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A4435/S2717 – Requires DCF to give priority to certain school districts with student mental health counseling centers in awarding grants under School Based Youth Services Program. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  A5147/S3479 – Establishes Alleviating Learning Loss in New Jersey Grant Program in DOE to assist public schools in establishing or expanding certain educational programs to address learning loss in students. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S1025 – Requires certain additional school district personnel to complete training program on suicide prevention. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3469 – Mandates training on remote teaching for all candidates for teaching certification. (Support) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3531 – Requires public schools to offer or expand summer school programs to students. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3654 – Establishes Amistad Curriculum Award Program for teachers who perform exemplary service providing instruction on slavery and African-American history; appropriates $5,000. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3684 – Requires DOE to establish central registry of individuals and organizations interested in providing supplemental tutoring support to students. (Support) (Reported out of committee with committee amendments, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3685 – Permits school teacher who is retired from TPAF to return to employment during public health emergency and state of emergency for COVID-19 pandemic, for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
  *  S3725 – Establishes “Summer Earn and Learn Pilot Program.” (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Senate)
 
BILLS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE MONDAY, MAY 17
 
  *  A5597 – Permits school districts to administer student health surveys after prior written notification to parents and legal guardians. (Monitor) (Reported out of committee, 2nd reading in Assembly)
 
BILLS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE TUESDAY, MAY 18
 
  *  A1055 – Establishes five-year community schools pilot program. (Support) (Reported out of committee; 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A3394/S237/S854 – “Laura Wooten’s Law”; Requires civics instruction in middle school; authorizes New Jersey Center for Civic Education to provide curricula, professional development and technical assistance for middle and high school civics. (Support with Qualification) (Reported out of committee; 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4789 – Establishes Safe and Equitable Remote Learning Pilot Program in DOE to support provision of remote learning safe havens by certain school districts. (Support) (Reported out of committee; 2nd reading in Assembly)
  *  A4856 – Requires Internet websites and web services of school districts, charter schools, and renaissance schools to be accessible to persons with disabilities. (Support) (Reported out of committee; 2nd reading in Assembly)
 
BILLS TO BE CONSIDERED THURSDAY, MAY 20
 
  *  A246 – Authorizes county colleges to establish and operate student dormitories. (Monitor)
  *  A1055 – Establishes five-year community schools pilot program. (Support)
  *  A1616/S550 – Requires certain student identification cards to contain telephone number for suicide prevention hotline. (Monitor)
  *  A3394/S237/S854 – “Laura Wooten’s Law”; Requires civics instruction in middle school; authorizes New Jersey Center for Civic Education to provide curricula, professional development and technical assistance for middle and high school civics. (Support with Qualification)
  *  A4544/S3150 – Permits school nurse who is retired from TPAF to return to employment during public health emergency and state of emergency for COVID-19 pandemic, for up to two years without reenrollment in TPAF. (Monitor)
  *  A4789 Establishes Safe and Equitable Remote Learning Pilot Program in DOE to support provision of remote learning safe havens by certain school districts. (Support)
  *  A4819/S3033 – Establishes School and Small Business Energy Efficiency Stimulus Program in BPU.
  *  A4856 – Requires Internet websites and web services of school districts, charter schools, and renaissance schools to be accessible to persons with disabilities. (Support)
  *  A5597 – Permits school districts to administer student health surveys after prior written notification to parents and legal guardians. (Monitor)
  *  A850 – Establishes “Broadband Access Study Commission.” (Support)
  *  A970 – Establishes Mental Health Screening in Schools Grant Program in DOE; appropriates $1 million. (Support)
 
  *  S2160 – Creates special education unit within the Office of Administrative Law; requires annual report. (Support)
  *  S2833 – Establishes Teacher Apprenticeship Program. (Support with Qualification)
 
WHEN IS THE LEGISLATURE MEETING AGAIN? (subject to change, especially if the budget vote is early)
 
 
  *  Thursday, May 20                  Senate Budget Committee; Assembly Voting Session
  *  Tuesday, June 1                      Senate Voting Session
  *  Wednesday, June 2                Assembly Committees
  *  Thursday, June 3                    Senate Committees
  *  Wednesday, June 9                Assembly Committees
  *  Thursday, June 10                  Senate Committees
  *  Monday, June 14                    Assembly Committees at the call of the Speaker
  *  Tuesday, June 15                    Senate Committees at the call of the President
  *  Wednesday, June 16              Assembly Committees at the call of the Speaker
  *  Monday, June 21                    Assembly/Senate Voting
  *  Thursday, June 24                  Assembly/Senate Voting
  *  Monday, June 28                    Assembly/Senate Voting
  *  Tuesday, June 29                    Assembly/Senate Voting
  *  Wednesday, June 30              Assembly/Senate Voting
 
 
[New Jersey Education Association]<https://www.njea.org/>
 
Francine Pfeffer
Associate Director
 
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
 
180 W. State Street
Trenton, NJ 08607-1211
 
p: 609-599-4561 x 2326
c: 732-280-8324
f: 609-394-3355
 
 
 
 
Classroom Close-up, NJ <https://classroomcloseup.org/>

 
 
 
 
 

—

Patricia Robbins
Office Manager , Somerset County Education Association
1140 Route 22 East, Suite 100
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Telephone: (908) 393-9000  Fax: (908) 393-9007

ESP’s Supporting Our Own Through Peer Mentoring

MEMO
TO:                    State Affiliate Presidents

FROM:              Andy Coons, NEA Senior Director, Center for Great Public Schools

DATE:                May 10, 2021

 RE:     APPLY TODAY: ESPs: Supporting our Own Through Peer Mentoring<https://sway.office.com/bRNMLccWbQpfCW3E?ref=Link>

The National Education Association recognizes the vital role Education Support Professionals (ESPs) play in ensuring a great public school for

every student and that’s why we’ve been working with affiliates to build ESP peer mentoring programs. Formal programs of ESP peer

mentoring support ESPs at all stages of their career and at all education levels, with the specialized, targeted workplace preparation and

support that is crucial for empowering ESPs and advancing their professional excellence. Mentoring can be a powerful catalyst for creating

opportunities that can be transformative for both ESPs and the Association. Through strong mentoring programs, the Association can develop deeper,

less transactional relationships with ESP members and build collaborative partnerships with school districts and universities focused on building

the education systems that all our students and members deserve.

Do you have local Associations that are seeking peer mentoring opportunities for ESPs?

If yes, they are now invited to apply to ESPs: Supporting Our Own Through Peer Mentoring<https://sway.office.com/bRNMLccWbQpfCW3E?ref=Link>.

·         Application Deadline: Monday, June 7, 2021 (10:00 AM EDT)

·         Application Selection: Applicants will be notified no later than June 21, 2021

ESPs: Supporting our Own Through Peer Mentoring is an NEA-offered online blended learning course, organized around 5 modules

of bi-weekly learning that include these formats:

·         Self-study: Individual work completed at each team member’s own pace.

·         Team assignments: Collaborative work completed together as a local Association team.

·         Webinars: Group learning with all participating local Association teams.

Over 9+weeks, local Association team members will work together to develop an ESP mentoring program that will create

opportunities for continuous professional improvement for their members (responsive to their local context), amplify the voice of ESPs

in their workplace, and elevate ESPs as respected educators.

Course facilitators are ESP members and leaders who have built and established their own ESP mentoring programs.

For additional course information, including the course schedule and application form, visit: ESPs: Supporting Our Own Through Peer Mentoring<https://sway.office.com/bRNMLccWbQpfCW3E?ref=Link>

Need more information about ESP mentoring? Learn more at NEA ESP Peer Mentorship <https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/professional-learning/esps/mentorship>

If you are interested in the course but are not yet ready to start, please send an email to ESPMentoring@nea.org<mailto:ESPMentoring@nea.org>.

We will keep you informed of all future learning opportunities.

IN CLOSING, we want to share a few WHY statements from local Associations (previous course participants) that are currently developing

or managing ESP mentoring programs.  These statements tell us why they were inspired to do this work and the values that they lead with.

“To empower, educate and equip staff so that they are confident, prepared and supported while educating the whole child.”

-Troy Education Association, Illinois

 “To empower others so we can stand together. To help others find their voice so they know how to advocate for themselves and as a group.

To protect the rights of members. Planning for the future. Making a difference.”
-Michigan State University Administrative Professional Association, Michigan

“To create a sustainable and equitable peer mentoring system for all job families so that all PXU ESPs will be knowledgeable,

proficient, supported and valued, creating a positive working and learning environment for ALL!”

-Phoenix Union High School Classified Employees Association, Arizona

cc:

ESP State Staff Coordinators

ESPQ Staff

 
— 
Patricia Robbins
Office Manager , Somerset County Education Association
1140 Route 22 East, Suite 100
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Telephone: (908) 393-9000  Fax: (908) 393-9007