FAQ for New School Election Law

Have you heard of P.L. 2011, c. 202?

Signed into law on Jan. 17, it permits a board of education, municipal governing body, or voters to move the April annual school board election to the date of the November general election.

The law's key provision, in effect for 2012, would take approval or rejection of a local school budget away from voters, as long as it meets the state-mandated 2 percent levy cap.

It's also yards cheaper for the school distrist, since the county operates the November elections.

The Madison is scheduled to vote on a resolution to move the election at its next meeting Feb. 14.

While many districts have already moved their elections, Board President Lisa Ellis says that discussion remains for Madison board members.

"It will save me $10,000," BOE Business Administrator Gary Lane said. "So, it's an easy decision."

If the election is moved, voters will still vote on school board candidates, proposals for funding over the cap, and capital spending proposals.

The new deadline for nomination petitions for school board candidates is June 5.

Click on the PDF to see a complete FAQ from the state Department of Education.