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Bill

Bill

A 926

Provides an excused absence for pupil who serves as poll worker on election day.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and 1 co-sponsor

Allows New Jersey students to receive excused school absences when serving as poll workers on election day, removing barriers to youth civic participation.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Education Committee
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Bill Summary · A 926

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 926 would allow students to receive an excused absence from school if they serve as poll workers on election day. The bill permits pupils to miss class without academic penalty when performing official election duties, creating a legal mechanism to accommodate student civic participation.

Why is this important

This bill addresses barriers to youth civic engagement by removing the conflict between election day responsibilities and school attendance. It normalizes student participation in the democratic process and demonstrates institutional support for young people fulfilling essential civic functions in their communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Grade impact concerns: Schools may worry about students missing instructional time, particularly before major assessments or during critical learning periods
  • Implementation logistics: Questions about how schools verify poll worker status, which elections qualify, and whether this extends to primary elections or only general elections
  • Age and eligibility limits: New Jersey allows 17-year-olds to serve as poll workers; potential debate over whether younger students should also receive protections
  • Makeup work requirements: Unclear whether students must complete missed assignments or if the excusal is completely penalty-free

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

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