The proposed bill establishes the Chronic Absenteeism Task Force in New Jersey, aimed at assessing and addressing chronic absenteeism in the state's public schools. The task force will consist of 18 members, including the Commissioner of Education or a designee, four public members with expertise in relevant issues appointed by legislative leaders, and 13 public members representing various educational organizations appointed by the Governor. The task force is required to organize within 30 days of member appointments and will be supported by the Department of Education for administrative needs.

The task force's responsibilities include examining current and pre-pandemic absenteeism data, analyzing root causes such as barriers to attendance and mental health impacts, and developing recommendations to improve family engagement and address the effects of COVID-19 on absenteeism. A final report detailing findings and legislative recommendations must be submitted to the Governor and Legislature within six months of the task force's organization, after which the task force will dissolve 30 days later. The bill highlights the significant rise in chronic absenteeism rates, which increased from 10.6% in the 2018-19 school year to 16.6% in the 2022-23 school year, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.