New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2647

Introduced

2/8/24

Introduced

1/13/26

Refer

2/8/24

Refer

1/13/26

Report Pass

6/20/24

Refer

6/20/24

Report Pass

6/24/24

Caption

Establishes Office of Learning Equity and Academic Recovery in DOE.

Impact

By providing additional funding to the Community College Opportunity Grant program, the bill aims to enhance access to higher education for low-income students in New Jersey. This appropriation is particularly significant as it addresses financial barriers that prevent many individuals from pursuing college education, emphasizing the state’s commitment to making higher education more accessible. The amendments also expand eligibility provisions for prior recipients of the grant, which is intended to aid students whose income may have increased but still necessitate financial support to continue their education.

Summary

Senate Bill 2647, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, proposes a supplemental appropriation of $1.2 million for the Community College Opportunity Grant program. This funding is intended to assist eligible students by covering the remaining costs of tuition and approved fees that are not already covered by state or federal grants. The bill specifies that eligible students must be enrolled in at least six credits, lack a prior college degree, and meet certain financial and academic criteria, including a household income threshold.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 2647 appears to be largely positive among educational advocates, who view the bill as a significant step towards promoting equity in educational access. Proponents argue that by investing in community college students, the state is fostering a more educated workforce and ultimately contributing to the state's economic development. However, concerns may arise regarding the sustainability of such funding in future budget cycles and the potential implications for other educational programs that may compete for limited resources.

Contention

As this bill progresses through the legislative process, debates may arise regarding the distribution of funds and the impact on existing financial aid programs. While the infusion of funds is widely supported, stakeholders may discuss the operational logistics of administering the grants, including the criteria for eligibility and the application process. Additionally, advocates for increased funding may face challenges in ensuring that this allocation remains protected in future budgets.

Latest NJ S2647 Activity

View All Events: NJ 2024-2025 Regular Session S2647

Companion Bills

NJ A2288

Same As Establishes Office of Learning Equity and Academic Recovery in DOE.

NJ S3518

Carry Over Establishes Office of Learning Loss Czar.

NJ A5199

Carry Over Establishes Office of Learning Loss Czar.

Previously Filed As

NJ S2647

Makes supplemental appropriation of $1.2 million for Community College Opportunity Grant.

NJ S2591

Establishes High Efficiency Accelerated Learning Grant Program.

NJ S1757

Establishes Office of Clean Energy Equity in BPU; directs establishment of certain clean energy, energy efficiency, and energy storage programs for overburdened communities; makes change to community solar program.

NJ S2627

Establishes Advisory Commission on Advancing LGBTQIA+ Youth Equity and Inclusion in Schools.

NJ S2608

Requires public institution of higher education to provide academic credit for certain examinations.

NJ A4892

NJ A2325

Makes supplemental appropriation of $1.2 million for Community College Opportunity Grant.

NJ S2617

Establishes Council for Community Recovery and Family Success.

NJ S2607

Requires Commissioner of Education to establish matching grant program for certain school districts and schools using federal funds to increase instructional time and accelerate learning.

NJ S2621

Establishes "Equitable Drug Pricing and Patient Access Act."

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