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 amendment 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.

By enabling eligible substitute teachers to enroll in TPAF, the bill aims to enhance their retirement security and make the teaching profession more attractive, thereby supporting workforce stability in educational institutions. Currently, substitute teachers who transition to permanent positions can purchase service credit for their time as substitutes, but those who do not meet this criterion are typically enrolled in the Public Employees Retirement System after 12 months of service. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.