WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 2793

Establishes three-year pilot program for school-based mentoring in public schools located within 1,000 feet of gunfire.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Angela McKnight

New Jersey establishes three-year mentoring pilot in schools within 1,000 feet of gunfire incidents to support student success and trauma recovery in affected communities.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 2793

Legislative bill overview

S 2793 establishes a three-year pilot program that funds school-based mentoring services in New Jersey public schools located within 1,000 feet of areas experiencing gunfire incidents. The program would provide structured mentoring relationships between trained mentors and students to support academic success and social-emotional development in schools serving communities affected by gun violence.

Why is this important

Schools in high-crime areas often struggle with student trauma, absenteeism, and academic performance—challenges directly linked to community violence exposure. Mentoring programs can provide protective factors and stable relationships for vulnerable youth, though their effectiveness depends heavily on implementation quality, funding consistency, and local context.

Potential points of contention

  • Geographic definition clarity: The 1,000-foot radius criterion is geographically specific but may be imprecise—it could exclude nearby schools with similar student populations or include schools where the threshold is merely technical
  • Root cause vs. symptom treatment: Critics may argue the bill addresses symptoms of gun violence rather than underlying causes, while supporters view mentoring as essential trauma-informed support regardless
  • Pilot program sustainability: A three-year pilot requires demonstrated outcomes and secured funding for permanent implementation, raising questions about long-term commitment and what happens when federal/state support ends

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.