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Bill

A 4233

Requires adoption of school tick remediation policy in public and private schools.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by John DiMaio and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill requiring all public and private schools to adopt tick remediation policies to reduce student and staff exposure to tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Education Committee
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Bill Summary · A 4233

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 4233 mandates that all public and private schools in New Jersey adopt and implement a formal tick remediation policy. The bill requires schools to establish protocols for identifying, removing, and managing tick infestations on school grounds, buildings, and property to protect students and staff from tick-borne illnesses.

Why is this important

Ticks are vectors for serious diseases including Lyme disease, which has seen rising infection rates in New Jersey over the past decade. School environments—particularly outdoor areas like athletic fields, playgrounds, and wooded areas—can harbor ticks, creating exposure risks for students during the school day. A standardized state-level policy ensures consistent protection across all schools regardless of district resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden: Implementation and ongoing tick management (landscaping modifications, pesticide treatments, monitoring) could create significant unfunded mandates for cash-strapped school districts
  • Private school applicability: Extending requirements to private schools raises questions about state authority and whether uniform policies can accommodate different school environments and budgets
  • Policy specificity: The bill's language doesn't clarify what constitutes an adequate remediation policy, potentially leading to inconsistent implementations and enforcement challenges

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

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