New Jersey Assembly Bill A4673

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/29/22
• Refer: 9/29/22

Caption

Prohibits misrepresentation of federal tuition benefits to service members and veterans and establishes public awareness campaign on certain higher education benefits available to service members and veterans.

Impact

The passing of A4673 will amend the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act, making it a violation to engage in deceptive practices specifically related to educational services aimed at veterans and service members. This is expected to create a safer educational environment and increase accountability within institutions that cater to these populations. The bill also establishes the groundwork for improved consumer protection by enhancing transparency about federal benefits, such as those provided under the Post-9/11 GI Bill and other similar programs.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4673 aims to protect service members and veterans from deceptive practices in the education sector, particularly concerning the misrepresentation of federal tuition benefits. The bill makes it unlawful for any institution of higher education or private career school to misrepresent tuition costs, Federal Tuition benefits eligibility, or the nature of financial assistance available to students. This is a significant move to ensure that veterans and service members have accurate information regarding their educational benefits, enabling them to make informed decisions about their education and associated costs.

Contention

The public awareness campaign mandated by the bill requires the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to educate service members and veterans about their eligibility for GI Bill benefits and the verification processes for these benefits. Critics might argue that while the bill is beneficial, it places additional burdens on educational institutions, which must adjust their practices and compliance mechanisms. Supporters contend that the overarching need for transparency and accountability outweighs these concerns, thus supporting the rights and needs of vulnerable groups such as veterans.