NEW JERSEY – Legislation introduced and sponsored by Assemblywoman Shama Haider to require a no-fee option for school-related payments was signed into law last week.
Bill A5263, also sponsored by Assemblywoman Carmen Morales and Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, marks a significant step towards easing financial burdens on New Jersey families.
The bill will require public schools and certain nonpublic schools to offer a no-fee option to parents making payments for meals, field trips, activity fees, and other school services. It will also require that any third-party platform used to collect payments disclose all fees up front and clearly notify families of no-fee options.
“No family should have to pay extra just to feed their child or participate in school activities,” said Haider (D-Bergen). “This bill will ensure that transparency and fairness are built into how schools handle payments, so parents aren’t caught off guard by hidden fees.”
Under A5263, any new contracts between schools and payment vendors must clearly list all user fees, disclose the average annual fees incurred, and include information about the no-fee payment option. All future payment requests from schools must also include a clear explanation of any changes and the no-cost alternative.
“Over my many years of experience in education, I’ve seen how education costs can quickly add up and create unnecessary stress for families,” said Morales (D-Essex). “We’re proud to help ease that burden with legislation that brings clarity and removes barriers.”
“Our goal is simple: give parents clear, affordable options to support their kids in school without added financial strain,” said Karabinchak (D-Middlesex). “By requiring a free payment option, we’re helping families focus on what really matters, their child’s education.”
