Directs State Treasurer to debit from State operating aid allocated to public research university amount equal to costs incurred by institution in implementing agreements reached with certain student protesters.
Impact
The bill seeks to control the financial implications of university agreements with student protestors, arguing that such agreements may divert taxpayer funds toward initiatives perceived as politically motivated. By directly linking state funding to university actions regarding protests, A4514 aims to enforce fiscal accountability among public research universities. This legislation could deter universities from adopting policies or projects deemed controversial or aligned with particular political narratives, which proponents argue is necessary to maintain neutrality in educational conduct.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4514, introduced in New Jersey, mandates the State Treasurer to deduct from the operating aid allocated to public research universities an amount equal to the costs incurred by these institutions in implementing agreements with students who protested the Israel-Hamas conflict that started on October 7, 2023. The bill specifically targets expenses associated with various actions, including support for displaced Gazan students, the establishment of cultural centers, hiring practices aimed at expanding academic perspectives on Middle Eastern studies, and the institutionalization of values concerning cultural competency.
Contention
Significant contention surrounds A4514, particularly relating to concerns about academic and institutional autonomy. Opponents of the bill argue that penalizing universities for responding to student activism could infringe upon academic freedom and the universities' ability to address contemporary socio-political issues. Critics also express fears that the bill could disproportionately affect programs related to Middle Eastern studies and cultural competency, labeling the measure as potentially punitive towards initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity while fostering educational dialogue about sensitive global issues. The debate reflects broader societal tensions regarding free speech, educational policies, and the implications of state intervention in university governance.
Same As
Directs State Treasurer to debit from State operating aid allocated to public research university amount equal to costs incurred by institution in implementing agreements reached with certain student protestors.
Directs State Treasurer to debit from State operating aid allocated to public research university amount equal to costs incurred by institution in implementing agreements reached with certain student protestors.
Prohibits institution of higher education from establishing scholarship fund or student assistance program limited to students who are citizens or permanent residents of country or territory controlled by terrorist organization.
Prohibits institution of higher education from establishing scholarship fund or student assistance program limited to students who are citizens or permanent residents of country or territory controlled by terrorist organization.
Adjusts bid threshold amounts for certain public research universities; permits certain contracts for school districts, municipalities, and counties to be awarded by qualified purchasing agent.
Adjusts bid threshold amounts for certain public research universities; permits certain contracts for school districts, municipalities, and counties to be awarded by qualified purchasing agent.
Adjusts bid threshold amounts for certain public research universities; permits certain contracts for school districts, municipalities, and counties to be awarded by qualified purchasing agent.
Requires Rutgers, the State University to adopt Discrimination and Discriminatory Harassment Policy for Students and Student Groups and establish other measures to ensure community safety and academic functions.
Directs State Treasurer to debit from State operating aid allocated to public research university amount equal to costs incurred by institution in implementing agreements reached with certain student protestors.
Hamas International Financing Prevention Act This bill imposes sanctions targeting Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and any affiliate or successor groups. The President must periodically report to Congress a list of each foreign person (individual or entity) that knowingly provides significant support or services to or is involved in a significant transaction with a senior member or supporter of the targeted groups. The President must impose two or more sanctions on the named persons. Specifically, the person may be (1) denied credit and services from the Export-Import Bank, (2) barred from purchasing certain controlled defense articles, (3) denied exports of items on the U.S. Munitions List, (4) prevented from receiving exports of certain goods or technology controlled for national security reasons, (5) prohibited from receiving financing of more than $10 million from any U.S. financial institution, or (6) subject to property-blocking restrictions. The President must periodically report to Congress a list of foreign governments that have repeatedly provided material support for the targeted groups' terrorist activities. The President shall bar these governments from receiving for one year (1) U.S. assistance, or (2) exports of controlled munitions. The Department of the Treasury must instruct U.S. leadership of international financial institutions to oppose providing assistance to an identified government for one year. The bill provides for certain exceptions and waivers, such as for transactions that would serve U.S. national interests. The President must report to Congress and periodically provide briefings on other specified topics related to the targeted groups, such as where these groups secure financing and surveillance equipment.
Prohibits public institution of higher education from entering into certain partnerships with institutions of higher education located in Palestinian territories.
Prohibits public institution of higher education from entering into certain partnerships with institutions of higher education located in Palestinian territories.