Requires public institution of higher education to award academic credit to certain volunteer emergency responders.
Impact
The bill specifies that academic credit should correspond to the number of hours a student has volunteered and that it can be applied towards relevant coursework at the institution. This change is expected to encourage more individuals to engage in volunteer emergency services, potentially increasing the pool of trained responders available to communities. Furthermore, it can help students obtain academic recognition for valuable skills and experiences gained through their volunteer work, thus enhancing their educational pursuits.
Summary
Senate Bill S2696 aims to require public institutions of higher education in New Jersey to award academic credit to certain volunteer emergency responders. This legislation recognizes the critical role that volunteers play in emergency response and seeks to encourage and facilitate their continued participation in such roles by providing academic incentives. Under this bill, academic credit will be granted to students who have met specific criteria regarding their service as volunteers, including hours served and the nature of their duties.
Contention
While the bill has the potential to create positive outcomes for both students and communities, it may also lead to discussions around the implementation and administrative burden on educational institutions. There may be concerns regarding the processes for verifying volunteer hours and roles, as well as how these credits will fit into existing academic structures and requirements. Critics could argue about the scalability of such initiatives and whether they will genuinely reflect the volunteer's contribution to emergency services.
Expands volunteer tuition credit program to volunteers and eligible dependents enrolled in four-year public institutions of higher education and increases maximum value of tuition credit.
Expands volunteer tuition credit program to volunteers and eligible dependents enrolled in four-year public institutions of higher education and increases maximum value of tuition credit.
Expands volunteer tuition credit program to volunteers and eligible dependents enrolled in four-year public institutions of higher education and increases maximum value of tuition credit.
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.