Establishes Digital Divide Solutions Grant Program in DOE to assist public schools in purchase of connected devices and Internet access for students during periods of remote instruction.
This bill establishes a grant program within New Jersey's Department of Education to help public school districts, charter schools, and renaissance schools provide connected devices (like laptops or tablets), Wi-Fi hotspots, mobile internet access, and related equipment to students lacking them during remote learning. The grants cover full costs for devices per student, internet access per household, device accessories (e.g., cases, headsets), and insurance for theft or damage, funded primarily by federal pandemic relief funds like the CARES Act. Schools must return equipment within five days after remote instruction ends, use 95% of funds for devices (with 5% for family training on internet safety), and report on purchased items and remaining access gaps within one year. The program directly supports students and families affected by the digital divide during school closures.
Bill status
in committee
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026
Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Full legislative history
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1
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0
Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee
lower
2 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
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