ASSEMBLY EDUCATION COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 1728

with committee amendments

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  MAY 7, 2026

      The Assembly Education Committee reports favorably and with committee amendments Assembly Bill No. 1728.

      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 that indicate membership in, or affiliation with, any gang associated with criminal activities.

      The bill clarifies that a board of education of a school district or the board of trustees of a charter school or renaissance school project 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 prefiled for introduction in the 2026-2027 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 the provisions of the bill, in addition to related provisions of current law, apply to charter schools and renaissance school projects.