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CA

Bill

S 3902

Permits excused absence for students participating in college visits, visits to postsecondary technical institutions, and military recruitment-related activities.*

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Carmen Amato and 8 co-sponsors

New Jersey law permits students excused absences for college visits, technical school tours, and military recruitment activities to support postsecondary planning without academic penalty.

Received in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Education Committee
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Bill Summary · S 3902

Legislative bill overview

S 3902 permits New Jersey students to receive excused absences from school when participating in college visits, tours of postsecondary technical institutions, and military recruitment-related activities. The bill passed the Senate unanimously in June 2025 and is currently under review in the Assembly Education Committee.

Why is this important

The bill addresses a practical barrier to educational and career exploration by allowing students to pursue college and vocational institution visits without academic penalty. It reflects recognition that these activities contribute to informed decision-making about post-secondary paths, particularly for students considering military service or technical training alternatives to traditional four-year colleges.

Potential points of contention

  • Attendance policy impact: Critics may argue that excusing absences for non-academic activities could undermine overall school attendance rates and disrupt classroom instruction, particularly if participation becomes widespread
  • Definition and scope concerns: The bill's language regarding what qualifies as "military recruitment-related activities" may be vague, potentially creating disputes over which activities warrant excused absences
  • Equity and access issues: Students with family resources or transportation may utilize these absences more frequently than economically disadvantaged peers, potentially widening opportunity gaps despite well-intentioned policy

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

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