New Jersey Assembly Bill A4679

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Imposes five-year moratorium on new construction at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The key impact of A4679 on state laws includes significant delays in infrastructure development for public higher education establishments. By enforcing this moratorium, the bill aims to curb expenses related to new constructions while allowing institutions to utilize resources for the maintenance and improvement of existing facilities. However, the bill does include stipulations for exemptions, giving the Secretary of Higher Education the authority to permit construction projects under certain conditions, such as projects funded entirely by private sources, those addressing emergency needs, or facilities primarily focused on health care.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4679 imposes a five-year moratorium on new construction at public institutions of higher education in New Jersey. This legislation restricts these institutions from entering into any contract for constructing new buildings or facilities during this five-year period, which is intended to manage and potentially control growth and associated costs in higher education environments. The bill aims to ensure that focus remains on existing facilities and resources rather than expanding infrastructure at a time when budget considerations may be tight.

Contention

Notable points of contention around A4679 may arise from the balance between financial oversight and the needs of public institutions of higher education to modernize and expand their facilities. Faculty and administration members might express concerns that such a moratorium could hinder the growth potential of educational resources and facilities, particularly in an evolving educational landscape that increasingly depends on updated infrastructures. Conversely, proponents might argue that the moratorium is a necessary measure to avoid financial pitfalls that could arise from overly ambitious infrastructure projects.