New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2365

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Permits spouses and dependents of military service members to qualify for in-State tuition in event that service member is transferred to another state.

Impact

The key provisions of A2365 provide that if a military service member is relocated out of state due to their military duties, their spouse or dependent will not lose their in-State tuition classification, provided they were enrolled in a public institution prior to the relocation and continue their enrollment without interruption. Additionally, the bill stipulates that dependents of military personnel who attended high school in New Jersey for at least three years will be considered residents regardless of their living situation when they enroll in higher education.

Summary

A2365 is a bill introduced in New Jersey that seeks to amend existing law concerning the classification of in-State tuition for military personnel and their dependents. Currently, the law allows United States military personnel and their dependents living in New Jersey to be considered residents for tuition purposes when attending public institutions of higher education. This bill expands that classification to include the spouses of military service members, thereby ensuring they are also granted in-State tuition rates.

Conclusion

Overall, A2365 marks an important recognition of the service and sacrifices made by military families and aims to provide them with educational stability during transitions. By ensuring military spouses and dependents can maintain their in-State residency for tuition purposes, the bill seeks to facilitate access to higher education for individuals who are often on the move due to military obligations.

Contention

While the bill appears to support military families significantly, it has raised concerns among some legislators and stakeholders about the potential implications for the educational system and resource allocation. Supporters argue this bill is a necessary step to recognize the unique challenges faced by military families, particularly during relocations. However, critics may fear it places additional strain on state resources and could lead to disparities in tuition funding for local residents versus military dependents.

Companion Bills

NJ S2005

Carry Over Permits spouses and dependents of military service members to qualify for in-State tuition in event that service member is transferred to another state.

NJ A2165

Carry Over Permits spouses and dependents of military service members to qualify for in-State tuition in event that service member is transferred to another state.

NJ S2579

Same As Permits spouses and dependents of military service members to qualify for in-State tuition in event that service member is transferred to another state.

Similar Bills

NJ AR22

Urges educational institutions in NJ to include veterans and active service members in discussions about military, military values, and leadership.

NJ A2363

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

NJ A1772

Provides tuition benefits at public institutions of higher education for dependents of certain veterans.

NJ A360

Prohibits school districts and public institutions of higher education from adopting policies that bar military members or veterans from addressing students.

NJ A4361

Permits excused absence for students participating in college visits, visits to postsecondary technical institutions, and military recruitment-related activities.

NJ A2350

Prohibits four-year public institution of higher education from charging tuition and fees to student who is spouse or dependent child of disabled veteran.

NJ A638

Requires public institutions of higher education to waive tuition and fees for Medal of Honor and Purple Heart Medal military recipients.

NJ A1440

Encourages expansion of community mental health programs to include mental health services to veterans; prohibits veterans from being denied county mental health services.