New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2476

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to conduct study to determine extent and cause of outmigration of high school graduates to out-of-State colleges.

Impact

The study sought by A2476 is anticipated to yield insights into various factors influencing students' choices, such as academic quality, socio-economic backgrounds, and the support systems provided by in-state institutions. By involving high school guidance counselors and analyzing demographic patterns, the findings have the potential to inform policymakers and educators about the steps needed to enhance the appeal of in-state colleges. This could lead to potential strategic changes in admissions processes, financial aid adjustments, and the promotion of local colleges’ strengths.

Summary

Bill A2476, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, aims to address the issue of outmigration of high school graduates to out-of-state colleges and universities. The legislation mandates the Secretary of Higher Education, in collaboration with the Commissioner of Education, to conduct a comprehensive study to identify the extent and reasons behind this trend. The bill underscores the importance of understanding why students opt for institutions outside New Jersey, thereby impacting the state's educational landscape and its colleges' relevance.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding its focus on the reasons for outmigration. Critics might argue about the effectiveness and implications of such a study, questioning whether the focus on retention adequately addresses broader systemic issues affecting education in the state. Additionally, debates may arise around the potential costs of conducting this study, the responsiveness of public institutions to the findings, and whether the proposed actions will sufficiently encourage high school graduates to remain in-state for their higher education.

Companion Bills

NJ S153

Same As Directs Secretary of Higher Education to conduct study to determine extent and cause of outmigration of high school graduates to out-of-State colleges.

NJ S1723

Carry Over Directs Secretary of Higher Education to conduct study to determine extent and cause of outmigration of high school graduates to out-of-State colleges.

NJ A3955

Carry Over Directs Secretary of Higher Education to conduct study to determine extent and cause of outmigration of high school graduates to out-of-State colleges.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1998

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to conduct study to determine extent and cause of outmigration of high school graduates to out-of-State colleges.

NJ A1963

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to conduct study to determine extent and cause of outmigration of high school graduates to out-of-State colleges.

NJ A1102

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to establish performance-based funding plans for public institutions of higher education.

NJ S3359

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to revoke proprietary school's license to award academic degrees if school fails to achieve certain minimum graduation rates.

NJ A1430

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to develop career and education guide for post secondary students with disabilities.

NJ S3294

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to develop career and education guide for post secondary students with disabilities.

NJ S1456

Establishes commission to advise Secretary of Higher Education on student issues of concern.

NJ HB1878

State Council of Higher Education for Virginia; renaming Director as Executive Director.

NJ S2532

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to appoint special auditor to investigate claims of abuse of public funds at public institutions of higher education.

NJ S3298

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to establish common course numbering system for public institutions of higher education.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

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NJ A2359

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NJ S1480

Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.

CA AB2771

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

NJ S1504

Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.

NJ A2133

Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.

TX HB5180

Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.

CA AB1098

California Education Interagency Council.