On Oct. 14, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) Office of Special Education announced public comment opportunities as part of the Special Education Transportation Task Force, as established pursuant to P.L.2025, c.130. Members of the public, including families of students with disabilities, advocates, educators, and other interested parties, are invited to register to provide oral or written comments at these meetings. 

Background 

P.L.2025, c.130 established the Special Education Transportation Task Force and charges it with studying and issuing recommendations on best practices for transporting students who receive special education and related services, including identifying and responding to medical and behavioral emergencies. The Task Force will receive public comments, without response or debate, consistent with established practice and Robert’s Rules of Order. All comments will be incorporated into the Task Force’s exploration process and be considered alongside other evidence and testimony informing its recommendations. 

Public Comment Procedure 

The following procedures will govern public comment: 

  • Timing. There will be three separate public comment listening sessions, held on the following dates and times via Microsoft TEAMS: 
  • Monday, Oct. 26, 2026 from 6:00PM to 7:00PM 
  • Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026 from 10:00AM to 11:00AM 
  • Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026 from 12:00PM to 1:00PM 
  • Registration. Individuals who would like to provide public comment must register in advance. Speakers will be called in the order in which they register, and everyone who registers for a session will have an opportunity to speak. Registration instructions are provided below. 
  • Time Limit. To ensure everyone has a chance to be heard, each speaker will be allotted up to five (5) minutes. The meeting facilitators will help keep comments within the time limit. 
  • Format. Members of the public may provide comments verbally during the meeting or submit written comments. All written comments will be included in the public record and distributed to Task Force members for their review and consideration. Written comments may be submitted in advance to oseinfo@doe.nj.gov. 
  • Protecting Privacy. NJDOE welcomes personal experiences and observations. To help protect the privacy of students, families, and staff, please avoid sharing names or other identifying information about individuals, school districts, schools, vendors, or organizations. This includes students, families, educators, bus drivers, aides, transportation providers, and other community members. Comments that focus on experiences, challenges, and potential solutions are especially helpful in informing the Task Force’s work. 

Registration and General Information 

Interested parties who wish to provide public comment must register using this registration form. Registration will close 24 hours before each meeting. Access details for the meeting will be provided by email prior to the public hearing. Individuals are encouraged to register as early as possible. 

Contact Information 

Contact OSEinfo@doe.nj.gov with any questions.