New Jersey Senate Bill S1265

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Establishes Gold Star Family Scholarship Program; appropriates $100,000 from General Fund to Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.

Impact

The Gold Star Family Scholarship Fund, managed by the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA), will consist of appropriated funds, private contributions, and proceeds from a $2 surcharge on personalized license plates. The program aims to make higher education more accessible to eligible family members by covering various educational costs, with individual scholarships limited to the average tuition charged at New Jersey's public four-year institutions. The implementation of this bill could positively affect the educational opportunities available to the families of service members.

Summary

Senate Bill S1265 aims to establish the Gold Star Family Scholarship Program in New Jersey, which provides financial assistance for post-secondary education to family members of military personnel who have died while on active duty. This initiative seeks to honor the sacrifices made by these families and ease their financial burden when pursuing higher education. The bill appropriates $100,000 from the General Fund to support the newly created scholarship fund.

Contention

While the intentions behind S1265 are broadly viewed as commendable, the bill may raise discussions regarding the sustainability of funding and the selection criteria for scholarship awards. Critics could argue about the need for a detailed review of the financial implications on the state budget, as diverting funds from the General Fund might impact other programs. Furthermore, establishing a system for contributions through tax designations necessitates examination in terms of administrative costs and taxpayer willingness to support such initiatives.