Bill
Bill > A118
NJ A118
NJ A118Requires school districts to let nonpublic school students participate in district high school interscholastic athletics.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill requires school districts to allow students who attend nonpublic schools to try out for, and participate in, a high school interscholastic athletics team or squad in the student's district of residence. The nonpublic school student is required to provide proof of residence in the district, and to meet the sports participation requirements established by the district for students enrolled in the district such as physical examination, insurance, fees, age, and academic requirements. The nonpublic school student is also to comply with the same standards of behavior, responsibilities, and performance as all other members of the team or squad. A board of education may charge a nonpublic school student, other than a student with financial hardship, a fee no greater than the actual cost per pupil of participating in the sport.
AI Summary
This bill requires school districts to allow students attending nonpublic schools to try out for and participate in their district's high school interscholastic athletics teams or squads, provided the student lives in the district and meets the same eligibility requirements as students enrolled in the district, including physical exams, insurance, fees, age, and academic standards, and adheres to the same behavioral and performance expectations. The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA), a governing body for high school sports, will handle any disputes regarding eligibility. Students who previously withdrew from a district school due to ineligibility will remain ineligible. School districts may charge nonpublic school students a fee for participation, up to the actual cost of the sport, unless the student demonstrates financial hardship, which will be determined by the same criteria used for free and reduced-price school meals. The bill clarifies that districts are not obligated to provide transportation for these students or alter team schedules or requirements to accommodate their participation.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Education Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/A118 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A0500/118_I1.HTM |
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