New Jersey Assembly Bill A2866

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Excludes certain unemployment compensation recipients from paying civil service open competitive examination application and appeal fees.

Impact

If enacted, A2866 will amend existing statutes concerning civil service fees set forth in P.L.1992, c.197. This legislation will directly affect the established $25 application fee for open competitive or promotional examinations and the related appeal fees, which will no longer be applicable to qualifying unemployed individuals. The initiative aims to support job seekers, reinforcing the state’s commitment to helping unemployed residents by reducing barriers to entry for civil service positions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2866, introduced in New Jersey, aims to alleviate financial burdens on individuals receiving unemployment benefits or those whose benefits have recently lapsed. Specifically, the bill seeks to exempt these individuals from paying application fees for civil service open competitive examinations as well as fees for filing appeals related to such examinations. The legislation intends to facilitate access to civil service jobs for those economically disadvantaged as a result of unemployment, aiming to streamline their path to employment in public service positions.

Contention

The discussions around A2866 reflect broader concerns about social equity and the responsibilities of government to assist unemployed individuals. Proponents of the bill, primarily from the Democratic side, argue that waiving these fees is essential to enhance job opportunities for those struggling financially due to unemployment. Conversely, some critics might raise concerns regarding the potential fiscal implications and the precedent it sets for civil service fees, questioning whether the exemption could lead to other financial strains on the civil service commission, which relies on these fees for operational funding.