New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill SCR22

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Proposes an amendment to the Constitution to describe the manner in which the Legislature shall provide for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of free public schools.

Impact

The amendment would give the state legislature considerable authority over educational funding. Notably, it specifies that the legislature can regulate and determine both the amount of state funding and local funding without establishing either minimum or maximum amounts. This provision may impact local school districts' financial autonomy, as decisions made at the state level could profoundly affect funding levels and allocation methods for public education. Ultimately, this could lead to greater disparities in educational resources based on legislative priorities.

Summary

SCR22 proposes an amendment to Article VIII, Section IV, paragraph 1 of the New Jersey Constitution, focusing on the framework for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of free public schools. The resolution emphasizes that it is the responsibility of the legislature to enact laws guiding the components critical for the optimal functioning of public schools. This approach aims to ensure that every child in New Jersey, aged between five and eighteen, receives capable educational opportunities as mandated by the state's constitution.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding SCR22 is its potential implications for local control over public education. Critics argue that allowing the state to dictate the funding allocations without established limitations could undermine local governance and responsiveness to community needs. Supporters, however, claim that this centralization aims to provide uniformity and efficiency in funding public education across the state. As the resolution may be presented to voters in a future election, its acceptance will depend significantly on public perception of the balance between local governance and state authority in education.

Companion Bills

NJ ACR16

Same As Proposes an amendment to the Constitution to describe the manner in which the Legislature shall provide for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of free public schools.

Previously Filed As

NJ SCR38

Proposes an amendment to the Constitution to describe the manner in which the Legislature shall provide for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of free public schools.

NJ SCR80

Proposes amendment to Constitution to describe manner in which Legislature will provide for maintenance and support of thorough and efficient system of free public schools.

NJ ACR149

Proposes constitutional amendment describing manner in which Legislature provides required maintenance and support of public schools.

NJ ACR47

Proposes an amendment to Constitution specifying a method of providing for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of free public schools and allocating all income tax receipts to school districts.

NJ HB930

Proposing An Amendment To Article X, Section 1, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Require That The Statewide Public School System Be Thorough And Efficient.

NJ HB930

Proposing An Amendment To Article X, Section 1, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Require That The Statewide Public School System Be Thorough And Efficient.

NJ HJR210

Proposing a constitutional amendment related to the funding and support of public free schools.

NJ HB130

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for the maintenance and support of public education.

NJ SCR79

Proposes constitutional amendment prohibiting any student from being compelled to attend public school other than one nearest to student's residence.

NJ ACR19

Proposes constitutional amendment prohibiting any student from being compelled to attend public school other than one nearest to student's residence.

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