Establishes the New Jersey State Government and Civil Service Student Internship Program; appropriates $750,000.
Impact
Under this bill, participants are required to complete two work periods totaling 480 hours in state departments or agencies. Upon successful completion, participants are granted preference for entry-level civil service positions for two years following graduation. This preference may be quite beneficial for students looking to enter the state workforce shortly after their studies. Additionally, disabled veterans who participate in the program receive priority under this provision, highlighting the state's commitment to supporting veterans in their transition to civilian employment.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3814 establishes the New Jersey State Government and Civil Service Student Internship Program aimed at attracting college students to state government service. The program will be administered by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development and is designed to provide internship opportunities to students from various academic disciplines. It is open to both full-time and part-time students at accredited higher education institutions, excluding those in jurisdictions like law and doctoral programs. Priority will be given to New Jersey residents or those attending schools within the state.
Contention
However, there are notable limitations to the program, including a stipulation that hours worked in the internship do not qualify for preference in hiring for positions requiring a juris doctorate or PhD. This restriction has raised concerns, particularly from students in graduate programs who may feel excluded from certain opportunities. Moreover, employers may consider internship completion in promotions without creating guaranteed pathways, which might dilute the program's perceived value. The program also has no penalties for participants who leave before completing their hours, ensuring that students can leave without penalty, making it a flexible option for diverse student needs.