Bipartisan legislation aimed at extending seniority protections to educational support professionals who have served in the U.S. military has advanced in the New Jersey Senate Higher Education Committee. The bill, S-2962, is sponsored by Senator Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-Ocean) and Senator Raj Mukherji (D-Hudson).
The proposed law would allow school employees such as teacher’s aides, administrative assistants, bus drivers, food service workers, custodians, and other non-teaching staff to receive up to four years of seniority or employment credit for time spent on active duty in the military. Currently, this recognition is provided only to teaching staff under state law.
“Educational support professionals are essential to the daily operations of our schools, and many of them have also bravely served our nation,” said Senator Amato. “This collaboration with Senator Mukherji advances our shared goal of ensuring veterans in educational roles receive the recognition and respect they’ve earned.”
A similar bill was moved through committee in December but needed reintroduction at the start of the new legislative session.
Senator Anthony M. Bucco serves as Senate Republican Leader and chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee while serving on the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee. He represents New Jersey’s 25th Legislative District and provides constituent services through his district office and email for legislative inquiries. His legislative work includes sponsoring bills and contributing to committee discussions on key state issues. More information about his roles can be found on his official website.
