New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3300

Introduced
2/2/26  

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

This legislation would amend existing laws in New Jersey to establish a framework for tuition assistance specifically catered to retired law enforcement who retired in good standing due to disability. The state would reimburse educational institutions for tuition costs not covered by other federal or state grants. Such policy initiatives are seen as a way to alleviate the financial burdens that disabled retired officers may face while seeking education or retraining for new careers.

Summary

Senate Bill 3300 aims to provide tuition assistance to retired law enforcement officers who left their positions due to disability. The bill stipulates that eligible officers can attend courses at public and proprietary institutions of higher education at no cost for up to 16 credits per semester. This generous support is aimed at enabling these officers to further their education and improve their career prospects post-retirement while recognizing their service and sacrifices made during their careers in law enforcement.

Contention

While the bill appears beneficial for those who have served in law enforcement, there may be concerns related to fiscal implications on the state's budget, especially considering reimbursement obligations for tuition. Discussions could arise regarding eligibility criteria, especially how to determine if an officer retired 'in good standing' and whether the definition of 'disability' is sufficiently clear and inclusive. Overall, the bill aims to support former officers, but debates may circle around the sustainability of funding such programs.

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 A1293

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.

CA AB2771

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

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 AB1098

California Education Interagency Council.