New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S786

Introduced
1/9/24  
Introduced
1/13/26  
Refer
1/9/24  

Caption

Reduces statute of limitations from six years to two years in medical fee disputes in workers' compensation matters.

Impact

The bill fundamentally alters the existing health education curriculum by adding specific requirements related to water safety. This initiative is in response to alarming statistics indicating that drownings are one of the leading causes of accidental death in the United States. By requiring schools to provide this instruction, the bill is expected to enhance community knowledge and preparedness concerning water safety, ultimately aiming to safeguard students during water-related activities.

Summary

Senate Bill 786, also known as the Water Safety Instruction Bill, mandates that all public school districts in New Jersey incorporate water safety instruction into their health education curriculum. The bill is designed to educate students in grades K-12 about essential water safety practices, including the proper use of flotation devices, awareness of water conditions, the dangers of rip currents, and the importance of swimming in supervised areas. The instruction is set to begin in the 2023-2024 school year and aims to reduce the risk of drowning incidents among students.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 786 is positive, with many stakeholders, including lawmakers and advocacy groups, supporting the initiative to improve water safety education in schools. Proponents argue that implementing such education is crucial, as it potentially saves lives and addresses a critical gap in the current health curriculum. However, there may be logistical challenges in rolling out the necessary training and resources to teachers and students, which has raised some concerns among educators about the feasibility of the bill’s implementation.

Contention

While most discussions around SB 786 have been supportive, some contention arises regarding the financial implications for school districts to adapt their curricula and train instructors adequately. Additionally, concerns have been voiced about ensuring that the quality of instruction meets educational standards and adequately prepares students for real-life water emergencies. This consideration may complicate the uniformity of how water safety is taught across the state's diverse school districts.

Companion Bills

NJ A1934

Same As Reduces statute of limitations from six years to two years in medical fee disputes in workers' compensation matters.

NJ S3905

Carry Over Reduces statute of limitations from six years to two years in medical fee disputes in workers' compensation matters.

NJ A5812

Carry Over Reduces statute of limitations from six years to two years in medical fee disputes in workers' compensation matters.

NJ S679

Carry Over Revises State marriage license application form to permit certain changes in middle name and surname.

NJ A648

Carry Over "Michelle's Law"; requires health benefit plans to cover mammogram for an individual if recommended by health care provider.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2757

Reduces statute of limitations from six years to two years in medical fee disputes in workers' compensation matters.

NJ A1384

Reduces statute of limitations from six years to two years in medical fee disputes in workers' compensation matters.

NJ S786

Requires school districts to provide instruction on water safety as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NJ HB68

Modifies the statute of limitations for personal injury claims from five years to two years

NJ A733

Increases daily compensation for election workers and increases additional compensation rate for election workers managing signature copy registers.

NJ SB67

Relative to workers' compensation and resolution of payment disputes.

NJ AB2098

Workers’ compensation: medical treatment.

NJ HB1352

relative to payment and dispute resolution for medical bills under workers compensation.

NJ AB1293

Workers’ compensation: qualified medical evaluators.

NJ S776

Requires school districts to provide information on free application for federal student aid to students in grades 11 and 12.

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