New Jersey Assembly Bill A3669

New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

Requires institutions of higher education to distribute information on availability of allowance for dependent care expenses in determination of cost of attendance.

Impact

With the implementation of A3669, institutions will be obligated to include information about the dependent care allowance on the financial aid 'shopping sheet' provided to prospective students. This shopping sheet must include clear details about costs, financial aid options, and potential debt incurred from educational loans. Such measures are expected to enhance transparency in the financial aid process and ensure that students fully understand their potential financial commitments upon entering or continuing their education.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3669 requires institutions of higher education to provide detailed information regarding the 'dependent care allowance' that can be factored into the determination of a student's cost of attendance. This allowance is particularly relevant for students who have dependents and incur expenses for their care while attending school. The bill aims to increase awareness about this allowance, so that eligible student parents can take advantage of additional financial aid opportunities, potentially alleviating some of their financial burdens while pursuing education.

Contention

Notably, there may be concerns about how these changes could affect student loan obligations. The bill explicitly states that utilizing the dependent care allowance may result in higher student loan obligations upon graduation. This aspect could give rise to debates surrounding the balance between obtaining necessary financial aid and the long-term implications of increased borrowing. As such, while the bill aims to support student parents, it raises questions about the overall sustainability of student debt levels in the context of higher education.