The S2 Appropriations Rescue Act proposes a supplemental appropriation of $106.5 million from the Property Tax Relief Fund to the New Jersey Department of Education. This funding is designated for Emergency Supplemental Aid to school districts that meet specific eligibility criteria. To qualify, a district must have received a total amount of State school aid in the 2024-2025 school year that is less than its adequacy budget, less than or equal to $19,000 per resident pupil, and either less than or equal to the total amount of State school aid allocated in the 2023-2024 school year or greater by up to $200,000. The aid amount for each eligible district will be calculated by multiplying $250 by the number of resident pupils.

The bill addresses the financial challenges faced by numerous school districts in New Jersey, which have been adversely affected by the funding changes implemented by P.L.2018, c.67. These budgetary constraints have led to significant reductions in educational services, including staff layoffs, program cuts, and school closures. By providing this emergency aid, the bill aims to stabilize the budgets of affected districts and ensure that students continue to receive a quality education. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.