This bill amends existing laws regarding the residency requirements for members of a board of education in New Jersey. It mandates that each member must maintain their principal residence within the school district and spend at least 292 days per year at that residence while holding office. The bill clarifies that a principal residence is defined as a domicile that is actually and continually occupied by the member, distinguishing it from vacation homes or rental properties. If a member fails to meet this residency requirement, their membership on the board will immediately cease.
Additionally, the bill provides an exemption for members whose principal residence is damaged or destroyed due to fire, flood, storm, natural disaster, or other casualties, allowing them to occupy a temporary residence without losing their board membership. The amendments also specify that if a member ceases to be a bona fide resident of the district or fails to maintain their principal residence, their membership will be terminated. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that board members are actively engaged and present within the communities they serve.