The requirement for teachers to pass a basic reading and writing skills test in New Jersey has been abolished.

According to a new law, teachers in New Jersey are no longer required to pass a basic reading, writing, and mathematics test to be eligible for public schools.

In June, Gov. Phil Murphy, D., signed Act 1669 into law, which took effect on Wednesday at the start of the new year. The objective of this law is to eliminate a "barrier" to certification in 2023 by removing teacher storage requirements in the state, as stated by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), a teachers' union.

According to the law, candidates seeking a certificate of eligibility, a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing, a provisional certificate, or a standard instructional certificate are not required to take a Commissioner of Education-approved test of basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills, including the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators test, in order to obtain these certificates.

Over 40 states and territories in the country utilize the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators exam, which encompasses questions on English, mathematics, and specific subjects.

Democratic state Sen. Jim Beach contended that the best way to acquire more teachers is by passing the bill when the legislation was approved.

In addition to passing specialized tests, teachers must also meet certain requirements, such as a minimum GPA and credits in their field, as well as holding a bachelor's degree.

Planet Chronicle Digital reached out to the New Jersey Education Association for comment.

To address the nationwide shortage of teachers, several states have relaxed their certification standards in recent years. In 2022, California issued an emergency executive order that waived the need for traditional credentials for teachers to serve as parent substitutes.

In the same year, Arizona passed a law enabling educators to commence teaching before completing their college degrees.