New Jersey Assembly Bill A1140

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Extends eligibility for Military Dependents Scholarships to students enrolled in approved career and technical education programs and to dependents of certain military members who served in Operation Freedom's Sentinel and Operation Inherent Resolve.

Impact

The legislation amends the existing statute P.L.2015, c.117, which originally established the Military Dependents Scholarship Fund. As of late 2021, this fund had not been active due to a lack of state appropriations or private donations. By broadening the scope of eligibility and updating the defined military engagements, A1140 not only seeks to recognize contemporary military actions but also to potentially increase participation in vocational education that aligns with today's job market. The increase in eligibility duration from 15 to 21 years for spouses and dependents also enhances the chances for families to access educational resources during critical transition periods following active duty service.

Summary

Bill A1140, introduced in New Jersey, aims to expand the eligibility criteria for Military Dependents Scholarships, which are financial awards intended to assist the dependents of military members who have served in specific operations. The bill specifically allows students who are enrolled in approved career and technical education programs to be eligible for these scholarships. Furthermore, it extends eligibility to dependents of military members involved in the recently recognized Operations Freedom's Sentinel and Inherent Resolve, ensuring that more families can benefit from educational resources and financial support.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding Bill A1140 involves the historical context of scholarship awards; as previously noted, no scholarships have been distributed under the related legislation since its inception. Critics may argue about the funding viability and the effectiveness of the existing framework meant to support military families, questioning whether the proposed expansions without prior awards reflect an actionable plan. Thus, the debate may not only center around the bill's intentions but also on whether the necessary state resources will be allocated to support these new educational programs.