Requires public institutions of higher education to waive tuition and fees for Medal of Honor and Purple Heart Medal military recipients.
Impact
If enacted, A2718 will significantly impact financial policies within New Jersey's public colleges and universities. Specifically, the bill stipulates that recipients can attend up to 16 credits per semester without charge for a maximum of eight semesters. This could lead to an increased enrollment of veterans in higher education, providing them with opportunities for career advancement and further education, while also influencing the financial planning of the state’s educational institutions as they adapt to this new tuition structure.
Summary
Bill A2718, proposed in the New Jersey legislature, mandates that public institutions of higher education waive tuition and fees for service members and veterans who have received the Medal of Honor or the Purple Heart Medal. This initiative is aimed at acknowledging the sacrifices made by these individuals during their military service and easing their path toward higher education. According to the bill, eligible veterans must be accepted into an undergraduate program, enrolled in good standing, and have applied for all available grants and scholarships before receiving the waiver.
Contention
While the intent of A2718 is to honor military service members, discussions surrounding the bill may encompass concerns over fiscal responsibilities. Potential opponents might question how this legislation could affect funding for other educational programs. Critics could argue that prioritizing tuition waivers for specific groups might limit available resources for broader educational initiatives that also serve a diverse student population. As such, the bill may provoke debate about the allocation of state resources and the foundational principles of equity in education.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.