New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1293

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

Impact

If passed, A1293 would amend existing laws to expand educational opportunities for retired law enforcement personnel, particularly those who have been impacted by disability. This expansion aligns with the state's broader efforts to promote education and ease the transition for individuals who may face challenges in their post-retirement life. By granting these benefits, the legislation aims to facilitate access to higher education, which can lead to better job prospects and enhanced quality of life for retired officers.

Summary

Bill A1293 seeks to provide tuition assistance to retired law enforcement officers who have retired due to disability. The bill allows these retired officers to attend public institutions of higher education or proprietary institutions licensed to confer academic degrees, with eligibility for up to 16 credits per semester at no cost. This initiative is modeled after existing legislation that provides similar benefits to members of the National Guard, showcasing a commitment to supporting those who have served in public safety roles.

Contention

Notably, potential points of contention surrounding this bill might include discussions about budget implications for the state government, considering the reimbursement of tuition costs to educational institutions. Additionally, there may be arguments from various advocacy groups concerning whether such tuition benefits adequately reflect the needs of all retired law enforcement personnel, or if there should be more inclusive measures for all public servants who retire under similar circumstances.

Companion Bills

NJ S925

Carry Over Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

NJ A263

Carry Over Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

NJ S3300

Same As Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

Institutional Debt Transparency Act.

NJ A2359

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

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.

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 AB2771

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

CA SB372

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: exemptions.