New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5148

Introduced
12/16/24  

Caption

Permits excused absence for student enlisted or planning to enlist Armed Forces of United States or National Guard.

Impact

If enacted, A5148 will amend the current regulations pertaining to student attendance in New Jersey public schools. It addresses the unique circumstances faced by students who are preparing for military service, recognizing their commitment while also ensuring that it does not penalize them academically. This bill may set a precedent for similar measures aimed at accommodating various student obligations outside of academic responsibilities, fostering a more supportive educational climate for those involved in military activities.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5148 was introduced in New Jersey to allow excused absences for students enlisted or planning to enlist in the active and reserve components of the Armed Forces or the National Guard. Specifically aimed at high school seniors, this bill stipulates that if a student misses school for military enlistment activities, such absences will be recorded as excused. Importantly, these excused absences will not appear on transcripts, applications, or any formal documentation that could impact the student's attendance record. This could ease the concerns of students about their attendance records while they fulfill military requirements.

Contention

While the bill aims to support students interested in military service, there may be contention concerning its implementation and the potential for misuse. Some stakeholders may raise concerns about ensuring that the definition of ‘military enlistment activity’ is sufficiently clear to prevent exploitation. Additionally, educators may need guidance on how to implement this policy without compromising academic standards or confusing the tracking of actual attendance versus absences due to military commitments. Overall, the bill reflects an effort to balance educational imperatives with the responsibilities that come with military service.

Companion Bills

NJ S3902

Same As Permits excused absence for students participating in college visits, visits to postsecondary technical institutions, and military recruitment-related activities.

Previously Filed As

NJ A211

Permits excused absence for student enlisted or planning to enlist in Armed Forces of United States or National Guard.

NJ A4361

Permits excused absence for students participating in college visits, visits to postsecondary technical institutions, and military recruitment-related activities.

NJ A223

Excludes bonuses for reenlistment or voluntary extension of enlistment in armed forces from gross income.

NJ A3812

Permits excused student absences for mental or behavioral health reasons.

NJ A4573

Codifies regulations concerning State-excused absences; permits excused absence for students attending military service activities, certain school visits, and open-houses.

NJ S3917

Codifies regulations concerning State-excused absences; permits excused absence for students attending military service activities, certain school visits, and open-houses.

NJ HB75

Public high schools; students excused from class for scholarship acceptance, college commitment, military enlistment

NJ S2425

Excludes bonuses for reenlistment or voluntary extension of enlistment in armed forces from gross income.

NJ A5183

Requires school districts to permit students excused absences for student illness.

NJ S4385

Requires school districts to permit students excused absences for student illness.

Similar Bills

TX HB5629

Relating to the occupational licensing of military service members, military veterans, and military spouses.

AZ SB1618

military affairs commission

NC S1060

Milit. Sexual Trauma/Study Comm./Pilot Prog

CA SB970

Military or overseas voters.

SC H5396

Month of the military child

WY SF0119

Expedited professional licensure for military members.

NJ SR63

Urges educational institutions in NJ to include veterans and active service members in discussions about military, military values, and leadership.

TX SB2255

Relating to the occupational licensing of military spouses.