This bill amends existing law to ensure that regional school districts are not subject to reductions in State school aid under specific conditions. It establishes that a regional school district spending at least 10 percent below adequacy, where each constituent school district is located in a municipality with an equalized total tax rate at least 10 percent greater than the Statewide average, will be exempt from such reductions. This provision aims to provide financial stability to regional school districts that meet these criteria, which are often overlooked in current legislation.

The bill also clarifies the existing framework for State aid reductions for school districts, particularly those classified as SDA (School Development Authority) districts and non-SDA districts. It highlights that while certain districts are protected from aid reductions based on their spending levels and tax rates, regional school districts have not previously benefited from similar protections. By including regional districts in these provisions, the bill seeks to address disparities in funding and ensure equitable support for all school districts in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:7F-68