Bill > ACR85

This Concurrent Resolution proposes an amendment to the New Jersey Constitution that would grant the Legislature the authority to define what constitutes a "thorough and efficient system of free public schools" and to determine how these schools will be funded. The proposed amendment clarifies that the Legislature will enact laws to establish the components of such a system and will decide on the funding mechanisms, including the amounts provided by the State and local districts, how funds are spent, allocation formulas, and how funds are raised. It emphasizes that this funding should be equitable, considering student and community needs and aiming for similar State per-pupil funding across different communities, while explicitly stating that the amendment does not mandate minimum or maximum State funding amounts or require funding to be based on prior years' levels. If approved by the Legislature, this amendment will be put to a public vote in the next general election.