New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2363

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Requires public institutions of higher education to waive or reimburse application fees and transcript fees for veterans and members of military.

Impact

If enacted, A2363 will have a significant impact on how public universities and colleges within New Jersey manage their fee structures concerning military personnel and veterans. By mandating the waiver of certain fees, the bill aims to enhance the educational opportunities available to these groups, making college more financially feasible. This legislative change can also encourage more veterans to enroll in higher education programs, thereby potentially increasing their adaptability and skills in the workforce post-service.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2363 aims to support veterans and active military members by requiring public institutions of higher education in New Jersey to waive or reimburse application fees and transcript fees for these individuals. The bill emphasizes the importance of making higher education more accessible for veterans and members of the military who are residents of the state and accept admission to these institutions. This legislative effort is intended to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with pursuing higher education for those who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces.

Contention

While the bill appears to have wide-ranging support due to its positive implications for veterans, there may be concerns about the financial repercussions for educational institutions in terms of the lost revenue from waived fees. Critics could argue that this legislation may lead to budget constraints within public colleges and universities, especially if not accompanied by offsetting funds or state support. The discussions around the bill may highlight the balance between providing essential support for veterans and ensuring that public institutions maintain financial stability.

Companion Bills

NJ A2161

Carry Over Requires public institutions of higher education to waive or reimburse application fees and transcript fees for veterans and members of military.

NJ S2377

Carry Over Requires public institutions of higher education to waive or reimburse application fees and transcript fees for veterans and members of the military.

NJ S3580

Same As Requires public institutions of higher education to waive or reimburse application fees and transcript fees for veterans and members of military.

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 AB1098

California Education Interagency Council.