This bill mandates that employing boards of education or contractors must notify the Department of Education (DOE) regarding the status of employees or school bus drivers who have pending criminal charges for certain offenses. Specifically, if a charge is pending, the employing entity must provide a statement of assurance to the DOE confirming that the employee or driver is not in contact with students while the charge is being adjudicated. If the charge results in a conviction, the bill requires the commissioner to inform the employing board or contractor that the individual is disqualified from employment, and they must then submit a statement verifying that the employee or driver has been terminated.

The bill amends existing laws to enhance the accountability of educational institutions in handling cases of employees or school bus drivers with pending criminal charges. It replaces the previous requirement for boards or contractors to "take appropriate action" with a more specific obligation to provide assurance regarding the non-contact status of the employee or driver with students. Additionally, it establishes a clear process for termination following a conviction, ensuring that the DOE is kept informed of any disqualifications and terminations related to criminal history.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:6-7.3, 18A:39-19.1