New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3408

Introduced
12/19/22  

Caption

Prohibits public institution of higher education from charging tuition to student who is dependent child of veteran who died or is disabled as result of service-related injury.

Impact

The enactment of S3408 is expected to significantly enhance opportunities for veterans' families to pursue higher education, contributing to workforce development and community enrichment. The state government will also bear the financial responsibility of reimbursing the educational institutions that offer these tuition waivers. While this act is seen as a positive step towards supporting veterans and their families, it may also raise discussions around funding allocation for state education budgets, especially in times of fiscal constraints.

Summary

Senate Bill S3408 proposes to eliminate tuition costs for dependent children of veterans who died or are disabled due to service-related injuries or illnesses. This initiative aims to provide financial support to the families of servicemen and women, enabling them to access higher education programs without the burden of tuition fees. Specifically, the bill grants these dependents up to 60 credit hours tuition-free in associate degree programs and up to 120 credit hours for baccalaureate degree programs at public institutions of higher education in New Jersey.

Contention

The proposal has elicited mixed responses among policymakers. Supporters argue that the bill honors the sacrifices made by veterans and provides essential support to their families, enhancing educational prospects and long-term career opportunities. However, some critics express concerns regarding the long-term financial implications of providing such benefits on state resources and potential unfair comparisons with other residents who do not receive similar tuition waivers. This sentiment necessitates discussions around equity and resource allocation within the state's higher education funding framework.

Companion Bills

NJ A3573

Same As Prohibits public institution of higher education from charging tuition to student who is dependent child of veteran who died or is disabled as result of service-related injury.

Previously Filed As

NJ A3573

Prohibits public institution of higher education from charging tuition to student who is dependent child of veteran who died or is disabled as result of service-related injury.

NJ S870

Prohibits public institution of higher education from charging tuition to student who is dependent child of veteran who died or is disabled as result of service-related injury.

NJ A3214

Prohibits public institution of higher education from charging tuition to student who is dependent child of veteran who died or is disabled as result of service-related injury.

NJ A2978

Prohibits four-year public institution of higher education from charging tuition to student who is spouse or dependent child of disabled veteran.

NJ A2986

Prohibits four-year public institution of higher education from charging tuition to student who is spouse or dependent child of disabled veteran.

NJ S2004

Prohibits four-year public institution of higher education from charging tuition and fees to student who is spouse or dependent child of disabled veteran.

NJ S1796

Prohibits four-year public institution of higher education from charging tuition and fees to student who is spouse or dependent child of disabled veteran.

NJ A2134

Prohibits four-year public institution of higher education from charging tuition and fees to student who is spouse or dependent child of disabled veteran.

NJ A1590

Prohibits four-year public institution of higher education from charging tuition and fees to student who is spouse or dependent child of disabled veteran.

NJ A676

Provides tuition benefits at public institutions of higher education for dependents of certain veterans.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

Institutional Debt Transparency Act.

TX SB174

Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.

CA AB1344

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Act of 2009.

NJ S3566

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A3422

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A5181

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

CA AB70

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

CA AB3167

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: highly qualified private nonprofit institution.