New Jersey Senate Bill S2400

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/24/22
• Refer: 3/24/22

Caption

Establishes program to provide free tuition under State Tuition Aid Grant Program to certain students who are accepted to public four-year institutions of higher education and elect to attend county college for first two years.

Impact

This legislation is positioned to significantly impact the accessibility of higher education for students in New Jersey. By allowing students to defer their admission to public four-year institutions and attend county colleges first, it not only reduces the financial burden of attending a university from the outset but also encourages students to complete associate degrees which can be transferred as credits toward a baccalaureate degree. Supporters argue this program will help lower college debt levels while maintaining educational standards, although it could also strain county colleges with increased enrollment.

Summary

Senate Bill S2400 establishes the 'Two to Four Tuition Free Students Program' within the State Tuition Aid Grant Program in New Jersey. The program aims to provide financial assistance to certain undergraduate students who are accepted to four-year public institutions but choose to complete their first two years at a county college. The initiative covers the full cost of tuition for both the county college and subsequent two years at the four-year institution, contingent upon the student qualifying for a State tuition aid grant. The administration of the program falls under the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority, which will facilitate applications and monitor participant progress.

Contention

The main points of contention surrounding S2400 revolve around its financial implications for the State and its potential strain on community colleges. Critics may express concerns regarding the funding needed to support such a program, especially in times of budget constraints. Others may argue that the program could unintentionally devalue the four-year institutions by redirecting students away from them initially. Furthermore, the bill preserves the need for ongoing reporting to ensure accountability and measure the success of participants in the program, which could become a focal point for future evaluations of the law's effectiveness.