SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE, No. 1780

with committee amendments

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  DECEMBER 5, 2024

     The Senate Education Committee favorably reports Senate Bill No. 1780 with committee amendments.

     As amended, this bill provides that a student cannot be denied admittance to school due to: 1) tardiness; or 2) a violation of a school uniform policy or dress code policy, except in the case of a student wearing clothing, apparel, or accessories indicating membership in, or affiliation with, any gang associated with criminal activities.

     The amended bill clarifies that a board of education is not restricted from enforcing any adopted student code of conduct or policy that does not conflict with the provisions of the bill.

     This bill was pre-filed for introduction in the 2024-2025 session pending technical review.  As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.

COMMITTEE AMENDMENTS:

      The committee amended the bill to:

· clarify that a board of education is not restricted from enforcing any adopted student code of conduct or policy that does not conflict with the provisions of the bill; and

· make technical changes.