TRENTON, N.J. — Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) is calling for an immediate legislative hearing on New Jersey’s school funding formula, criticizing its lack of transparency and the volatility surrounding aid distribution.
“The lack of transparency in how school funding is allocated—and the persistent volatility surrounding the funding process—is completely unacceptable,” Bucco said in a statement.
Gov. Phil Murphy’s proposed budget would cut school aid to 175 districts, despite ongoing economic pressures and learning loss challenges. The plan also limits funding increases for districts that had previously experienced drastic cuts, capping them at 6%.
Bucco accused the Murphy administration of “picking winners and losers” in a system that lacks clear explanations for funding decisions. He argued that income tax revenues have been diverted away from education funding, leading to inequities across school districts.
He urged Senate Education Chairman Vin Gopal or Senate Budget Chairman Paul Sarlo to convene a hearing to clarify how the administration determined this year’s aid distribution. “Time is of the essence,” he emphasized, as school districts must finalize their budgets by April.
Bucco’s demand adds pressure on Democratic leaders as schools face another year of uncertain funding.