New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2180

Introduced

1/9/24

Refer

1/9/24

Caption

Provides supplemental appropriation of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Impact

If enacted, S2180 would substantially enhance existing educational support for STEM teachers. Eligible candidates would receive up to $20,000 in loan redemption or tuition reimbursement, representing 25 percent of their qualifying educational expenses or loans. This program aims to alleviate the financial burdens of student loans, promoting retention and commitment among STEM educators by requiring them to teach in public schools for at least four full years. These measures are anticipated to facilitate a more robust teaching workforce in STEM disciplines.

Summary

Senate Bill S2180 aims to provide a supplemental appropriation of $20 million specifically designated for the loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program aimed at teachers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The funding is intended to encourage new teachers to enter and remain in the STEM education sector within New Jersey public schools, addressing a growing need for qualified professionals in these crucial areas of education. The bill outlines eligibility requirements for individuals seeking assistance, emphasizing the need for newly hired novice teachers or those completing advanced educational programs in STEM subjects.

Contention

The bill has engaged discussion over its funding and potential effectiveness. Supporters argue that by targeting financial support specifically towards STEM educators, it directly addresses teacher shortages in these vital subjects. On the other hand, there may be concerns about the conditions tied to the financial assistance, such as the requirement to teach for four years, which some may see as an undue restriction on new teachers' career flexibility. Further debate may arise around ensuring equitable access to these funds across diverse school districts.

Latest NJ S2180 Activity

View All Events: NJ 2024-2025 Regular Session S2180

Companion Bills

NJ A2725

Same As Provides supplemental appropriation of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

NJ S546

Carry Over Provides supplemental appropriation of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

NJ A896

Carry Over Provides supplemental appropriation of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2204

Provides supplemental appropriation of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

NJ LD1740

An Act to Establish the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics Education Matching Grant Program

NJ LD281

An Act to Provide Support for Certain Maine Discovery Museum Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Educational Programming Throughout the State

NJ A2750

Establishes New Jersey Tuition Reimbursement Program for Special Education Teachers.

NJ S2194

Establishes pilot program providing tuition fee waiver for certain apprenticeship courses.

NJ A1904

Makes supplemental appropriation of $8 million to DHS to increase reimbursement for funeral, burial, and crematory services provided to certain beneficiaries of Work First New Jersey and Supplemental Security Income programs.

NJ LD823

An Act to Establish a Grant Program to Provide for Statewide and Equitable Access to Experiential Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Competition Programs

NJ A2245

Makes FY2026 supplemental appropriation of $30 million from General Fund to Food and Hunger Programs in Department of Agriculture.

NJ A4286

Makes FY2026 supplemental appropriation of $30 million from General Fund to Food and Hunger Programs in Department of Agriculture.

NJ S2216

Establishes tuition reimbursement program for students enrolled in certain private postsecondary educational schools.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

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MD HB390

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MD HB0390

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MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

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PA SB1220

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