The bill amends N.J.S.18A:66-2 to expand the definition of "teacher" to include certain substitute teachers who hold an instructional, administrative, or educational services certificate and have at least 12 months of continuous service. This change allows these qualified substitute teachers to enroll in the Teachers' Pension and Annuity Fund (TPAF), granting them access to retirement benefits that were previously unavailable. The bill also clarifies that substitute teachers are generally not considered teachers under the article's definition, except as specified in the new language, thereby ensuring that eligible substitutes can benefit from the retirement system.

By enabling certain substitute teachers to enroll in TPAF, the bill aims to enhance the retirement security of these educators and make the teaching profession more attractive, ultimately supporting workforce stability in educational institutions. The bill is designed to provide pension and death benefits to substitute teachers who have shown commitment to their roles, and it will take effect immediately upon passage.