New Jersey Assembly Bill A388

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Establishes position of Ombudsman of Student Discipline to serve within Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.

Impact

By instituting this position, the bill aims to bolster students' rights within the disciplinary frameworks of higher education institutions, thereby addressing significant concerns regarding transparency and fairness in disciplinary actions. The ombudsman would provide mechanisms for students to challenge disciplinary decisions that may result in serious consequences, such as suspension or dismissal, ensuring that disciplinary processes are conducted in alignment with principles of due process. Moreover, institutions are required to respond to the findings of the ombudsman, potentially prompting changes in their disciplinary codes and practices based on the feedback received.

Summary

Assembly Bill A388 seeks to establish the position of an Ombudsman of Student Discipline within the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education in New Jersey. The primary role of the ombudsman is to ensure that students undergoing disciplinary processes at their respective higher education institutions receive fair and impartial treatment. The bill outlines that this ombudsman will be responsible for accepting and reviewing requests for assistance from students involved in disciplinary proceedings, including providing guidance during hearings and conducting investigations into the nature of alleged violations and the processes followed by the institutions.

Contention

There may be potential contention surrounding Assembly Bill A388 mainly regarding the administrative burden it could impose on educational institutions. Critics might express concerns that the introduction of an ombudsman could complicate existing disciplinary procedures or lead to increased litigation risks for institutions. Conversely, proponents argue that such a position is essential for protecting student rights and enhancing the fairness of disciplinary processes, particularly for marginalized or vulnerable student populations. The inclusion of an onus on institutions to agree to potentially alter their disciplinary measures based on the ombudsman’s recommendations opens dialogues on accountability and responsiveness in higher education governance.