Sen. Parker Space backs bill aimed at boosting aid for Highlands, Pinelands school districts
NEW JERSEY — State Sen. Parker Space has joined a legislative effort aimed at increasing state aid for school districts in development-restricted regions, including the Highlands and Pinelands.
Space, a Republican representing Sussex, Morris and Warren counties, announced he is signing onto proposed legislation known as the “Fairness for School Districts in Development Restricted Areas Act.”
The bill, introduced by Sens. Anthony Bucco and Latham Tiver, seeks to provide additional state funding to school districts that face limits on generating local revenue due to environmental development restrictions under state law.
“Families in the Highlands region are being squeezed by a system that ignores the realities of living in development-restricted communities,” said Senator Space. “When State-imposed restrictions limit a town’s ability to expand and develop, the school aid formula should account for that so schools don’t get shortchanged in State funding. Our schools, students and taxpayers have been suffering for too long. I’m proud to add my name to this bill which will restore fairness and ensure these school districts finally receive the funding they deserve.”
