Establishes Gold Star Family Scholarship Program; appropriates $100,000 from General Fund to Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.
Impact
The enactment of this bill will provide critical educational funding for Gold Star families, thereby enhancing access to higher education for those who have lost service members. The scholarship awarded to eligible family members will cover the costs of undergraduate study, although it is capped at the average tuition charged by four-year public institutions in New Jersey. This financial support is expected to alleviate barriers to education faced by families affected by the loss of a military provider, promoting educational attainment and financial stability among these families.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2167 establishes the Gold Star Family Scholarship Program, designed to provide financial assistance to the family members of military personnel who have lost their lives while on active duty. Eligible recipients can include spouses, children, parents, guardians, and siblings of the deceased service members. The bill mandates the creation of the Gold Star Family Scholarship Fund, which will be administered by the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA). This fund will draw from appropriated state funds, private contributions, and proceeds from specific surcharges, including a $2 annual fee on personalized license plates.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding Bill A2167 may stem from discussions regarding the funding mechanisms for the Gold Star Family Scholarship Fund. While the bill aims to create sustainable funding through an annual surcharge on license plates and voluntary contributions via state income tax returns, concerns could arise concerning the adequacy of these funding sources to meet the anticipated demand for scholarships. Additionally, there may be debates on how effectively the established eligibility criteria and processes can equitably distribute aid among potential recipients.
Prohibits institution of higher education from establishing scholarship fund or student assistance program limited to students who are citizens or permanent residents of country or territory controlled by terrorist organization.
Prohibits institution of higher education from establishing scholarship fund or student assistance program limited to students who are citizens or permanent residents of country or territory controlled by terrorist organization.
"Opportunity Scholarship Act"; establishes pilot program in Department of Treasury providing tax credits to taxpayers contributing to scholarships for low-income children.
"Opportunity Scholarship Act"; establishes pilot program in Department of Treasury providing tax credits to taxpayers contributing to scholarships for low-income children.