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NJ S2378

NJ S2378
Provides gross income tax deduction to eligible educators and paraprofessionals for expense of classroom supplies.


summary

Introduced
01/29/2024
In Committee
06/20/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill provides a gross income tax deduction to eligible educators and paraprofessionals employed by a New Jersey elementary or secondary school for certain expenses incurred by the educator or paraprofessional for classroom supplies during the taxable year. This New Jersey gross income tax deduction is modeled on the federal income tax deduction for educator expenses allowed under section 62 of the federal Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. s.62). The bill defines an "eligible educator" as an individual who is employed as a kindergarten through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, speech language specialist, or principal by a public or private school located in this State for at least 900 hours during a school year. The bill defines a "paraprofessional" as an individual who is employed as a school aide or classroom aide who assists a teaching staff member with the supervision of pupil activities by a public or private school located in the State that provides elementary education or secondary education. The bill allows the deduction of unreimbursed expenditures by an eligible educator or paraprofessional for supplies (other than nonathletic supplies for courses of instruction in health or physical education), books, computer equipment, including related software and services, and other equipment and supplementary materials used by the eligible educator or paraprofessional in the classroom.

AI Summary

This bill allows eligible educators and paraprofessionals in New Jersey to deduct up to $250 from their gross income for unreimbursed expenses on classroom supplies purchased during the taxable year, mirroring a federal tax deduction. An "eligible educator" is defined as someone working at least 900 hours a year as a teacher, instructor, counselor, speech language specialist, or principal in a New Jersey public or private elementary or secondary school. A "paraprofessional" is an individual employed as a school or classroom aide who assists a teacher with student activities in a similar school setting. The deduction covers expenses for items like books, computer equipment and software, and other supplementary materials used in the classroom, excluding non-athletic supplies for health or physical education courses. This provision will take effect immediately and apply to tax years beginning on or after January 1st following its enactment.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance, Education

Sponsors (4)

Last Action

Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee (on 06/20/2024)

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