New Jersey Assembly Bill A2054

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/22
• Refer: 2/3/22

Caption

Increases gross income tax deduction for contributions to the New Jersey Better Educational Savings Trust (NJBEST) Program.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would have a positive impact on state laws regarding education savings, incentivizing households to allocate more funds towards educational expenses. By increasing the deduction limit, the state aims to promote broader access to higher education, encouraging residents to save for their children's college expenses. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for annual cost-of-living adjustments to the deduction and income limits, ensuring that the legislation remains relevant in the face of inflation and rising costs.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2054 proposes to amend the New Jersey tax code to increase the gross income tax deduction for contributions made to the New Jersey Better Educational Savings Trust (NJBEST) Program. The bill specifically raises the allowable deduction for taxpayers with a gross income of $200,000 or less from $10,000 to $15,000 for contributions made in the taxable year following the enactment of the bill. This adjustment aims to encourage additional savings towards education, providing greater tax relief to families looking to invest in higher education.

Contention

The bill, while largely viewed as a step forward for educational funding, may face scrutiny regarding its budgetary implications. Critics may argue about the potential loss of tax revenue due to the increased deductions and whether this strategy effectively leads to higher participation in the NJBEST Program. Proponents, however, highlight the long-term benefits of investing in education, arguing that supporting families in saving for college expenses ultimately benefits the state through a more educated workforce.