TRENTON, NJ – A proposed New Jersey law would allow public school students to receive an excused absence when they take part in a musical performance honoring veterans at military funerals, including playing “Taps.”
Assembly Bill 257, introduced by Assemblyman Brandon Umba of the 8th District and co-sponsored by Assemblywomen Murphy and Sawyer, seeks to expand the list of officially excused absences under state education law.
Currently, students may be excused for attending Veterans Day ceremonies or assisting veterans at hospitals or shelters.
The new legislation would add participation in military funeral performances—such as those held by national or state veterans’ organizations—to that list.
Schools would be required to record such absences as excused and omit them from transcripts, applications, or attendance records that note unexcused absences.
Encouraging civic and ceremonial participation
The measure also ensures that these excused absences will not affect a student’s eligibility for perfect attendance recognition.
Students claiming the exemption would need to provide documentation verifying their participation, as determined by the district superintendent or school principal.
The bill defines a “veteran” as anyone honorably discharged from active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces.
If enacted, the measure would take effect in the first full school year following its approval by the Legislature and governor.
Key Points
- Bill A257 would excuse public school students who perform at military funerals, including playing “Taps”
- Absences would not count against attendance records or perfect attendance awards
- Students must provide proof of participation as determined by school officials