New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A263

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

Impact

The bill impacts several aspects of state law concerning the educational rights of retired disabled law enforcement officers. By aligning the benefits provided under this bill with existing tuition assistance laws available for members of the New Jersey National Guard, A263 seeks to create a similar educational framework for former law enforcement. Such provisions underscore the state’s commitment to supporting its former public safety personnel, acknowledging their service while facilitating their transition into civilian life through education.

Summary

Assembly Bill A263 proposes a significant amendment to the educational benefits available for retired law enforcement officers in New Jersey. Specifically, the bill allows former law enforcement officers who have retired due to disability to receive tuition assistance for attending public institutions of higher education or proprietary institutions that are licensed to confer academic degrees. This initiative aims to provide educational opportunities for those who have served in law enforcement and found themselves unable to continue due to disabilities sustained in the line of duty.

Contention

Discussion around A263 might focus on the adequate funding for the tuition assistance program, potential concerns regarding eligibility criteria, and the overall impact on state education funding. While proponents argue that this measure is justified as a means of recognizing the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel, critics could raise concerns about prioritizing funds for law enforcement retirees over other sectors needing educational support. Additionally, the effectiveness of the bill's implementation in terms of accessibility for eligible officers could also be a point of debate.

Companion Bills

NJ S925

Same As Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

NJ A2291

Carry Over Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

NJ S1688

Carry Over Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

Similar Bills

NJ S3566

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A5181

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A3422

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A2291

Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

NJ S1688

Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

NJ S925

Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

NJ S2837

Provides tuition-free credits to certain institutions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.

NJ A4349

Provides tuition-free credits to certain instituitions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.