This bill proposes a supplemental appropriation of $20.2 million from the General Fund to the New Jersey Department of Education specifically for Nonpublic Security Aid, which supports security measures in nonpublic schools. The legislation modifies the existing budget language to increase the per pupil aid amount from $205 to $338, reflecting the increased funding and addressing rising costs associated with security services, equipment, and technology. As a result, the total funding for Nonpublic Security Aid will rise from $30.55 million to $50.8 million.

The need for this increase is attributed to inflationary pressures and a rise in hate crimes affecting religious-based private schools, as well as the growing number of private schools in New Jersey. The bill aims to enhance the safety and security of nonpublic school students by providing necessary resources to school districts for effective security measures.