Directs Secretary of Higher Education to establish Legislative Youth Council and select institution of higher education in this State as host; makes changes to council's structure to provide flexibility in activities and operations.
Impact
The changes introduced by S3987 allow for more flexibility in the council's functions. It raises the minimum age for council members from 15 to 18 and extends the maximum age from 23 to 25, thereby ensuring that members are more experienced and closer to completing their higher education. The bill also reduces the residency requirement, allowing for a more diverse pool of candidates. Furthermore, it shifts the council's reporting structure, requiring biennial reports to be made by a designated coordinator rather than by council members, facilitating a smoother operation and allowing council members to focus on their activities and responsibilities.
Summary
Senate Bill S3987, introduced in New Jersey, aims to reinstate and restructure the Legislative Youth Council, directing the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to establish the council within a host institution of higher education. The bill emphasizes the importance of youth engagement in the democratic process and recognizes the need for their perspectives in policymaking. By providing a platform for youth involvement, the bill aims to foster a stronger connection between the younger generation and their government, thereby promoting civic engagement.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding S3987 stem from the alteration of the council's composition and the abolition of certain procedural requirements. Critics may argue that the changes to the youth council, such as the removal of specific subject area requirements for members and the diminished role of legislative members, could weaken oversight or dilute the focus on pressing youth issues. The bill's emphasis on flexibility might lead to concerns about the adequacy of representation and accountability, as the structure is designed to adapt over time rather than adhere to established protocols and standards.
Same As
Directs Secretary of Higher Education to establish Legislative Youth Council and select institution of higher education in this State as host; makes changes to council's structure to provide flexibility in activities and operations.
Same As
Directs Secretary of Higher Education to establish Legislative Youth Council and select institution of higher education in this State as host; makes changes to council's structure to provide flexibility in activities and operations.
Directs Secretary of Higher Education to establish Legislative Youth Council and select institution of higher education in this State as host; makes changes to council's structure to provide flexibility in activities and operations.
Directs Secretary of Higher Education to establish Legislative Youth Council and select institution of higher education in this State as host; makes changes to council's structure to provide flexibility in activities and operations.
Directs Secretary of Higher Education to appoint special auditor to investigate claims of abuse of public funds at public institutions of higher education.
Requires campus diversity actions at public institutions of higher education and directs Secretary of Higher Education and Division on Civil Rights to develop guidance regarding diversity in faculty search and selection process.
Requires campus diversity actions at public institutions of higher education and directs Secretary of Higher Education and Division on Civil Rights to develop guidance regarding diversity in faculty search and selection process.
In institutions of higher education, abolishing the State Board of Higher Education and its powers and duties; further providing for Performance-based Funding Council and for public institution of higher education reporting; and providing for reversion of certain powers and duties of the State Board of Higher Education to the State Board of Education and Council of Higher Education.