New Jersey Assembly Bill A3665

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/24
• Refer: 2/12/24

Caption

Provides that student is ineligible for State financial aid upon conviction for hazing.

Impact

The enactment of A3665 would directly influence how state financial aid is distributed to students convicted of hazing offenses. The bill amends existing legislation, specifically N.J.S.18A:71B-2, to include this new criterion for eligibility. As a result, students facing hazing-related convictions may find their educational pursuits impacted significantly due to a lack of financial resources, which could deter individuals from engaging in such behaviors.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3665 proposes to amend the state law concerning eligibility for student financial aid in New Jersey by stipulating that any student who is convicted of hazing or aggravated hazing is ineligible to receive state financial aid. This bill aims to establish a stricter deterrent against hazing, an issue that has garnered attention due to several high-profile incidents leading to severe consequences, including fatalities among students. By linking financial aid eligibility to such convictions, lawmakers are attempting to reinforce the seriousness of hazing activities on college campuses.

Contention

While the bill is seen as a necessary step by supporters who view hazing as a pervasive issue that endangers student welfare, there could be controversy surrounding the fairness and efficacy of such measures. Opponents might argue that penalizing students with the loss of financial aid for behavioral issues may disproportionately affect those who may be at a disadvantage, potentially escalating socio-economic disparities among students. Furthermore, concerns regarding the definition and enforcement of 'hazing' may arise, leading to discussions on transparency and due process in the adjudication of such cases.