Athletics now open to all in N.J. schools
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie recalled what a big part organized sports played in his early life as he signed a bill granting disabled students equal access to school athletics.
Christie signed the bill Thursday, the last full day of National Special Olympics competition in Mercer County.
The law requires public schools to ensure that disabled students can try out for and participate in mainstream athletics.
The legislation was sponsored by Senate President Stephen Sweeney, who first ran for office after his daughter, Lauren, was born with Down syndrome.
The 21-year-old soccer player is competing in the Special Olympics.
Sweeney says the events show that those with different abilities deserve opportunities to compete in athletics.
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