Bill > A4854

This bill modifies the method of allocating state aid for providing auxiliary and remedial services to nonpublic school students in New Jersey. The bill updates two existing laws (P.L.1977, c.193 and P.L.1977, c.192) that provide services to nonpublic school students with disabilities and those requiring auxiliary services. The key changes include establishing a new process for calculating and distributing state aid, where the commissioner will determine maximum per service aid amounts by dividing the annual appropriation by the average number of documented services delivered in the prior three school years. The bill requires the commissioner to conduct a survey every three years to collect information on service costs, ensures that annual appropriations are fully expended to support nonpublic school students, and allows school districts to apply for reimbursement on a quarterly basis. Additionally, the bill gives the commissioner authority to establish limits on the duration and frequency of services and to withhold administrative funds if districts do not properly manage the aid. The goal is to maintain the quality of services provided to nonpublic school students while ensuring equitable and efficient distribution of state aid.

Budget and Finance, Education, Government Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4854