This bill allows students in grades six through 12 who are not enrolled in public schools—specifically those receiving equivalent instruction elsewhere, attending charter schools, county vocational schools, or nonpublic schools—to participate in interscholastic athletics in their district of residence. To be eligible, these students must provide proof of residency, meet the same sports participation requirements as students enrolled in the district (including physical examinations and academic standards), and demonstrate that they are receiving an academically equivalent education. The bill also stipulates that any disputes regarding eligibility will be resolved by the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) according to its rules.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for students who withdraw from public schools to enroll in alternative educational settings. If a student is ineligible to participate in interscholastic athletics at the time of withdrawal due to academic or behavioral issues, they will remain ineligible for competition. The legislation does not require schools to provide transportation or alter their schedules to accommodate these students. The Department of Education is tasked with reviewing the impact of this bill on interscholastic athletic programs two years after its enactment.