Rice, Turner Bill to Reform Unjust School Policies Passes Senate

Trenton – In an effort to address harmful school policies, the Senate passed legislation today sponsored by Senators Ronald Rice and Shirley Turner that would prevent schools from denying a student entry into buildings for violating the dress code or for tardiness.

The bill, S-311, would prevent schools from denying a student entry into the building due to a dress code violation or tardiness. However, a school board could create a dress code that prohibits students from wearing anything related to gang-associated activities, racism and bigotry.

“There are inequities in the penalties our kids receive in school. Oftentimes, low-income communities are hit harder when faced with these challenges,” said Senator Rice (D-Essex), Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus. “A student should not be denied entry into a school building just for violating the dress code or for tardiness. How can we help kids to learn and improve their lives if we hold them back? This bill presents a constructive solution to this issue.”

“Denying a student entry into a school because they were late or violated the dress code is wrong and often times is discriminatory,” said Senator Turner (D-Mercer/Hunterdon). “We are setting these kids up to fail if they cannot go to school over something that may be beyond their control. There are countless stories of families having difficulty getting their children to school on time and yet it is the kids that are forced to endure the worst of this situation. We must prevent this from happening.”

The bill was released from the Senate by a vote of 22-11.