New Jersey Senate Bill S4162

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/25
• Refer: 2/25/25
• Report Pass: 3/17/25
• Engrossed: 3/24/25
• Refer: 3/24/25
• Report Pass: 5/8/25
• Enrolled: 5/22/25
• Chaptered: 7/8/25
• Passed: 7/8/25

Caption

Limits use or disclosure of certain education records.

Impact

This legislation aims to strengthen protections around student educational records in alignment with federal laws, such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. By limiting the disclosure of waivers and relevant personal information, the bill seeks to empower students and their parents or guardians by requiring informed consent before any use of submitted waivers. The effective implementation of S4162 will provide a clearer framework for how financial aid waivers are processed, potentially easing the concerns over privacy breaches and unauthorized data handling by educational institutions.

Summary

Senate Bill S4162, introduced in New Jersey, focuses on amending P.L.2023, c.295, specifically concerning the confidentiality and disclosure of certain education records related to student financial aid applications. The bill seeks to streamline disclosure processes related to waivers necessary for students from graduating high school classes of 2025, 2026, and 2027. Under the proposed legislation, school districts and charter schools must develop waiver templates which demand only minimal personal information from students and their guardians to reduce administrative burdens and protect student privacy.

Contention

Notably, the bill prohibits school districts and charter schools from using or disclosing any submitted waivers without consent. This has prompted discussions regarding the balance between necessary administrative processes and students' rights to privacy. Critics may argue that while the bill enhances privacy protections, it could also complicate the procedures involved in accessing essential financial aid resources. Opponents may raise concerns about the implications for students who miss out on financial aid opportunities due to the stringent privacy requirements, highlighting a need for careful communication and education regarding these new processes.