Current Legislation - Jan. 6, 2011

Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act:  A-3466 (Vaineri Huttle, Angelini, Diegnan, Handlin, Moriarty, McKeon, Lampitt, Jasey, Buono, Allen & Weinberg)   This legislation, which establishes measures to address harassment, intimidation and bullying in school settings, was signed by the governor (P.L. 2010, c.122) on Jan. 5. 

NJEA supported this bill but sought to secure amendments which would strengthen its effectiveness.  Our recommendations included proper funding for training and programs in each district and insuring that school personnel are properly trained and certified as bullying specialists.  The law will take effect in the 2011 – 2012 school year.

Advertising on Exterior of School Buses:  A-1637 (Wagner, Voss, Addiego, Rudder)/S-2309 (Gordon,Vitale)  This legislation, which permits boards of education to contract for the sale of advertising space on the exterior of school buses, was signed by the Governor (P.L. 2010, c.121) Jan. 5.  The bill requires that 50% of any revenue generated by the sale must be used by the board to offset the fuel costs of providing pupil transportation services and the remaining 50% of the revenue will be used to support programs and services the board deems appropriate.  Advertisements for tobacco or alcohol products or for political advocacy will be prohibited, in addition to any other advertisements that the Commissioner of Education deems inappropriate.  NJEA took no position on the legislation. 

Children’s Health:  SJR-20 (Vitale). This legislation, which designates the month of February in each year as “Children’s Dental Health Month” passed the Senate (40-0).  The bill has been referred to the Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee; however, it has not yet been scheduled.  NJEA supports this legislation.