New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A4349

Introduced
6/20/22  

Caption

Provides tuition-free credits to certain instituitions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.

Impact

The implementation of A4349 will likely impact state law by enhancing the educational opportunities available to retired public safety personnel and their families. By facilitating access to higher education without the burden of tuition, the bill aims to support those who have served the community in high-risk roles, alleviating some financial stress while also potentially promoting further career development and opportunities after retirement. The state will also cover the cost of tuition for eligible participants, reimbursing educational institutions for waived tuition fees not covered by other grants.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4349 proposes to provide tuition-free credits for higher education to certain categories of law enforcement officers and firefighters, along with their spouses and dependents. Specifically, this bill targets retired officers or firefighters who have served in good standing for a minimum of four years prior to their disability retirement due to service-related injuries or illnesses. Eligible individuals can receive up to 16 credits per semester across a maximum of eight semesters at public institutions or degree-granting proprietary institutions in New Jersey.

Contention

While A4349 primarily aims to support retired law enforcement officers and firefighters, it may catalyze discussions about the prioritization of educational resources for specific groups. There may be considerations regarding funding and equity in educational support for other disadvantaged groups who may also require similar assistance. As the bill supports a specific demographic, debates around fairness and inclusivity in state-funded educational initiatives may arise, especially from advocates of other marginalized communities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A292

Provides tuition-free credits to certain instituitions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.

NJ S2012

Provides tuition-free credits to certain institutions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.

NJ A227

Provides tuition-free credits to certain institutions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.

NJ SB177

Providing certified law-enforcement officers tuition-free education up to highest tuition rate for public higher education in WV

NJ SB566

Providing certified law-enforcement officers tuition-free education up to highest tuition rate for public higher education in WV

NJ A1772

Provides tuition benefits at public institutions of higher education for dependents of certain veterans.

NJ SB202

Exempting certain military veterans and their dependents from tuition

NJ SB149

Exempting certain military veterans and their dependents from tuition

NJ HB1507

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions for firefighters enrolled in certain courses at public institutions of higher education.

NJ S1134

Provides free tuition at public institutions of higher education for surviving spouses and dependent children of military personnel killed in performance of duties.

Similar Bills

NJ S2012

Provides tuition-free credits to certain institutions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.

NJ A227

Provides tuition-free credits to certain institutions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.

NJ A292

Provides tuition-free credits to certain instituitions of higher education for certain law enforcement officers and firefighters and their spouses and dependents.

IL HB1149

HIGHER ED-FIREFIGHTER CREDIT

TX HB1507

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions for firefighters enrolled in certain courses at public institutions of higher education.

CA SB423

An act to add Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 4970) to Part 4 of Division 4 of the Public Resources Code, relating to inmate firefighters.

MS SB2368

Higher Education Legislative Plan Grant Program; amend.

OH SB195

Revise volunteer fire department and volunteer firefighter law