The bill modifies the allocation method of State aid for auxiliary and remedial services provided to nonpublic school students in New Jersey. It clarifies that local boards of education are responsible for providing transportation or maintenance of vehicular classrooms when required, with costs reimbursed through State aid. A new reimbursement process is established, allowing school districts to apply quarterly for costs incurred while providing services to eligible nonpublic school students. The bill mandates that the maximum per service aid amounts set by the Commissioner of Education reflect the number of eligible students and services provided, and introduces provisions for the commissioner to establish these amounts based on projected service needs and costs.

Additionally, the bill removes certain provisions from current law that dictated the calculation of State aid allotments and required school districts to refund unexpended State aid. It eliminates the requirement for the commissioner to prorate aid amounts in cases of insufficient appropriated funds. These changes aim to streamline the reimbursement process, enhance the equitable distribution of funds among school districts, and ensure that resources are fully utilized throughout the school year, ultimately improving the efficiency and effectiveness of State aid distribution for nonpublic school services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:46-19.6, 18A:46-19.8, 18A:46A-6, 18A:46A-8, 18A:46A-9, 18A:46A-10, 18A:46A-15