New Jersey would offer free monthly books to enrolled young children

The Department of Education would run a monthly book program with a national children's book nonprofit or a New Jersey college or university. Children must live in New Jersey, be under five, and enroll to receive books. Families would pay nothing for the books. The department may require its partner to provide at least half the money needed to run the program. The bill would take effect immediately if it becomes law.

The state would set aside $2 million for the monthly book program. The money would go to a Department of Education fund used to provide books to eligible children. The fund could also receive future state money and public or private donations. The department could not accept donations with conditions that conflict with state law. The funding provision would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.