New Jersey Assembly Bill A889

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Requires public institutions of higher education to waive tuition and fees for Medal of Honor and Purple Heart Medal military recipients.

Impact

The implementation of A889 will have a notable impact on educational policies within New Jersey, as it mandates public colleges and universities to provide financial waivers specifically targeted at certain heroic military recognitions. This could lead to an increase in enrollment among veterans and military members at these institutions, promoting higher education accessibility for individuals who have faced unique challenges due to their service. Furthermore, this act complements existing veterans' benefits and further reinforces the state's commitment to supporting its military community.

Summary

A889 is a legislative bill aimed at providing financial assistance to military service members and veterans by requiring public institutions of higher education in New Jersey to waive tuition and fees for those who have received the Medal of Honor or the Purple Heart Medal. The bill stipulates that the waiver is contingent upon the service member or veteran being accepted and enrolled as an undergraduate student in good standing, as well as having applied for available state and federal grants and scholarships. The legislation facilitates access to higher education for those who have made significant sacrifices in service to their country, thereby recognizing their contributions and providing them with educational opportunities.

Contention

While A889 is generally viewed positively as a means to reward military service, there could be debates surrounding its funding implications and the fair allocation of resources among all students at public institutions. Some may raise concerns about whether the state can accommodate additional financial waivers without impacting the quality of education or availability of resources for other students. Additionally, there might be discussions regarding the criteria for eligibility and whether the focus on Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients is adequate to address the broader spectrum of veterans' needs.