Requires public institution of higher education to readmit student whose enrollment was interrupted due to military service.
Impact
The bill mandates that students be readmitted with the same academic status as when they last attended, allowing for a seamless transition back into their studies. This provision is essential for service members who may face interruptions in their education due to deployments or training, ensuring they do not lose progress in their academic careers.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3803 requires public institutions of higher education in New Jersey to readmit undergraduate students who have withdrawn from their programs due to military service. This includes service in the Armed Forces, National Guard, or Reserve under federal or state authority, and applies to those on active duty or in training. The bill is aimed at supporting veterans and service members by ensuring their academic pursuits are not hindered by their military obligations.
Contention
During discussions around A3803, support for the bill was evident among legislators who view it as a necessary means of honoring service members' contributions and sacrifices. However, concerns were raised regarding the implementation of such mandates on different institutions, considering variations in policies and resources among public universities. Overall, the notable points of contention focused on the practical aspects of enforcing readmission and ensuring all eligible students are aware of their rights under the law.
Prohibits public institutions of higher education from increasing resident undergraduate tuition for four continuous academic years following student's initial enrollment.
Prohibits school districts and public institutions of higher education from adopting policies that bar military members or veterans from addressing students.
Requires tuition aid grant amounts to be equal for students enrolled in independent institutions of higher education and students enrolled in four-year public institutions of higher education.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
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.
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.
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.