New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3902

Introduced
12/5/24  
Refer
12/5/24  
Report Pass
3/3/25  
Engrossed
6/2/25  

Caption

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

Impact

The bill has implications for state laws surrounding school attendance and the recognition of absences for various activities deemed beneficial for students' futures. By permitting excused absences for college and military recruitment activities, the law encourages students to engage with potential career paths. This change in legislation seeks to foster an environment where students are supported in their transitions to higher education and military service, ultimately promoting a more informed and involved youth population.

Summary

Senate Bill S3902 allows high school students in grades 11 and 12 to take excused absences from school for college visits, visits to postsecondary technical institutions, and activities related to military recruitment. The legislation is designed to support students in exploring various post-graduation pathways and aims to expand their opportunities beyond the classroom. It stipulates that students may have up to three excused absences per school year for these purposes, ensuring that these absences do not negatively impact their attendance records in school.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding S3902 appears to be largely positive, with proponents highlighting its role in facilitating essential experiences for students that could influence their educational and career choices. However, there may be concerns among some stakeholders regarding the effectiveness of monitoring and documenting these absences, as well as ensuring students are not discouraged from taking them due to academic pressures. Overall, the bill reflects a commitment to holistic education and development for high school students.

Contention

Some notable points of contention could arise regarding what constitutes an appropriate military recruitment-related activity and whether the documentation requirements placed on students may be burdensome. While the bill aims at supporting students' pursuits, there may also be discussions around how schools will balance these excused absences with maintaining academic standards and attendance rates. The nuances of such legislation—especially how it affects students' academic records—will likely continue to be debated as it is implemented.

Companion Bills

NJ A5148

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

Previously Filed As

NJ S2457

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

NJ A4361

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

NJ S3917

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

NJ A4573

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

NJ HB653

Excused student absences; visitation of immediate family members on active duty military, etc.

NJ HB3136

Relating to excused absences from public school for the purpose of visiting an institution of higher education.

NJ SB2871

Relating to excused absences from public school for the purpose of visiting an institution of higher education.

NJ HB1222

Excused absences; permit for students participating in roping and barrel horse events.

NJ A211

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

NJ HB1358

Excused absences; permit for students participating in roping or barrel horse events.

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.