Teens lobby for school day off to attend civic programs

Teenage political leaders from both parties have joined to support legislation that gives students in grades 6-12 an excused absence each school year to attend a civic event.

The Involve Our Youth Act was approved by the Assembly State and Local Government Committee on Monday and is now awaiting approval by the full Assembly.     The Senate version, introduced by Vin Gopal (D-Long Branch) and James Beach (D-Voorhees), passed the Senate in May 2022 by a 36-0 vote.

“I think it is very important for the youth to be actively involved in politics and their communities,” said Katie Mirne, the New Jersey High School Republicans chair.  We are the future of New Jersey and we are the ones who have to live in the world that we build. I think a lot of my peers are experiencing high levels of political apathy and it’s time to change that.”

The bill defines a “civic event” as one sponsored by a government entity, community group, or non-profit that includes elements of service,

The committee approved the bill unanimously.

“By encouraging students to be more active members in their communities, we are in turn creating a more informed and involved generation of citizens,” said Mirne.  “At the end of the day, whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, you should 100% fight for the future you want to see.”

Read the full article here: newjerseyglobe.com/legislature/teens-lobby-for-school-day-off-to-attend-civic-programs/