New Jersey legislation · 2026-2027 Regular Session
New Jersey S1340: Physical education/sport programs-permit students to opt out during Ramadan
Status: Passed one chamber, September 28, 2026
Requires Commissioner of Education to develop guidance on accommodations for certain students fasting for religious or medical reasons.*
What the bill says
An Act concerning religious and medical accommodations for public school students and supplementing chapter 6 of Title 18A of the New Jersey Statutes. 1. a. The Commissioner of Education, in consultation with the Commissioner of Health, shall develop and distribute guidance to public schools concerning accommodations for students who are fasting for religious or medical reasons. b. The guidance required pursuant to subsection a. of this section shall include, but not be limited to, recommendations concerning: (1) 1[scheduling considerations and]1 flexibility for physical education classes, ath.
From the amended text, June 15, 2026:
An Act concerning religious and medical accommodations for public school students and supplementing chapter 6 of Title 18A of the New Jersey Statutes. 1. a. The Commissioner of Education, in consultation with the Commissioner of Health, shall develop and distribute guidance to public schools concerning accommodations for students who are fasting for religious or medical reasons. b. The guidance required pursuant to subsection a. of this section shall include, but not be limited to, recommendations concerning: (1) 1[scheduling considerations and]1 flexibility for physical education classes, athletic participation, examinations, and other school activities; (2) differentiated instruction and alternative educational activities for students whose fasting may affect participation in certain 1[instructional or]1 physical activities; (3) 1[model policies concerning matters related to student fasting, including attendance, health, hydration, nutrition, and student wellness; (4) methods by which school districts may address graduation credit requirements and course participation requirements while ensuring students continue to receive] [ADDED: strategies to support students who are fasting for religious or medical reasons without adversely affecting the students academic standing or access to] 1 instruction aligned with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards; 1[(5)] [ADDED: (4)] 1 communication with parents or guardians regarding requests for accommodations related to fasting; and 1[(6)] [ADDED: (5)] 1 professional development resources and best practices for teachers, coaches, school nurses, counselors, and administrators concerning students …