New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A889

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Requires public institutions of higher education to waive tuition and fees for Medal of Honor and Purple Heart Medal military recipients.

Impact

The implementation of A889 will have a notable impact on educational policies within New Jersey, as it mandates public colleges and universities to provide financial waivers specifically targeted at certain heroic military recognitions. This could lead to an increase in enrollment among veterans and military members at these institutions, promoting higher education accessibility for individuals who have faced unique challenges due to their service. Furthermore, this act complements existing veterans' benefits and further reinforces the state's commitment to supporting its military community.

Summary

A889 is a legislative bill aimed at providing financial assistance to military service members and veterans by requiring public institutions of higher education in New Jersey to waive tuition and fees for those who have received the Medal of Honor or the Purple Heart Medal. The bill stipulates that the waiver is contingent upon the service member or veteran being accepted and enrolled as an undergraduate student in good standing, as well as having applied for available state and federal grants and scholarships. The legislation facilitates access to higher education for those who have made significant sacrifices in service to their country, thereby recognizing their contributions and providing them with educational opportunities.

Contention

While A889 is generally viewed positively as a means to reward military service, there could be debates surrounding its funding implications and the fair allocation of resources among all students at public institutions. Some may raise concerns about whether the state can accommodate additional financial waivers without impacting the quality of education or availability of resources for other students. Additionally, there might be discussions regarding the criteria for eligibility and whether the focus on Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients is adequate to address the broader spectrum of veterans' needs.

Companion Bills

NJ S2551

Same As Requires public institutions of higher education to waive tuition and fees for Medal of Honor and Purple Heart Medal military recipients.

Previously Filed As

NJ A638

Requires public institutions of higher education to waive tuition and fees for Medal of Honor and Purple Heart Medal military recipients.

NJ HB7398

Passports for Purple Hearts and Medals of Honor Act

NJ A2363

Requires public institutions of higher education to waive or reimburse application fees and transcript fees for veterans and members of military.

NJ S3580

Requires public institutions of higher education to waive or reimburse application fees and transcript fees for veterans and members of military.

NJ HB1454

Relating to waivers and reductions of tuition and fees by institutions of higher education.

NJ HB2839

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel.

NJ SB60

Public postsecondary education: waiver of tuition and fees: California Military Department GI Bill Award Program: extended education courses.

NJ SB5639

Providing tuition and fee waivers at public institutions of higher education for children of murdered parents.

NJ S0574

Toll Exemptions for Purple Heart Medal Recipients

NJ H0313

Toll Exemptions for Purple Heart Medal Recipients

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