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MD

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A 5605

Establishes various programs to support neurodiverse students at county colleges; appropriates $1.475 million.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mitchelle Drulis and 2 co-sponsors

Bill A 5605 allocates $1.475 million to support neurodiverse students at county colleges in NJ through dedicated coordinators, faculty training, and improved facilities.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Higher Education Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5605

Summary of Bill A 5605: Support for Neurodiverse Students at County Colleges

Bill Number: A 5605
Title: Establishes various programs to support neurodiverse students at county colleges; appropriates $1.475 million.
Introduced: May 5, 2025
Status: Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Higher Education Committee
Sponsors:
- Assemblyman Chris Tully (District 38, Bergen)
- Assemblywoman Carmen Theresa Morales (District 34, Essex)
- Cosponsor: Mitchelle Drulis

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5605 aims to enhance educational support for neurodiverse students attending county colleges in New Jersey. The legislation seeks to establish programs that will improve accessibility, provide professional development for faculty, and enhance facilities to better accommodate the unique needs of neurodiverse individuals.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant components:

1. Accessibility Coordinator Pilot Program

  • Implementation: A two-year pilot program will be established by the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education in collaboration with the New Jersey Council of County Colleges.
  • Funding: $1.475 million is appropriated for this initiative.
  • Function: The program will fund the hiring of accessibility coordinators at three selected county colleges (one from each region: northern, central, and southern New Jersey).
  • Responsibilities of Coordinators:
    • Provide academic advising tailored to neurodiverse students.
    • Assist students in accessing campus and community resources.
    • Connect students with job opportunities.

2. Professional Development for Faculty and Staff

  • The New Jersey Council of County Colleges will offer training sessions focused on:
    • Understanding diverse learning experiences.
    • Promoting inclusiveness and success for neurodiverse students.
    • Identifying needs and modifying curricula to support these students.
  • Training may include statewide sessions and workshops, available both in-person and virtually.

3. County College Inclusive STEM Infrastructure Grant Program

  • This program will provide grants to county colleges for capital construction projects aimed at improving facilities for neurodiverse students, particularly in STEM and artificial intelligence fields.
  • Eligible Projects: Modifications may include sensory-friendly rooms, flexible seating, and assistive technology.
  • Application Process: Colleges must submit proposals detailing project descriptions, funding sources, and partnerships with relevant programs.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly benefit neurodiverse students by:
- Enhancing their academic and career support through dedicated coordinators.
- Equipping faculty with the necessary skills to better support diverse learning needs.
- Improving physical learning environments to be more inclusive and accommodating.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on May 5, 2025, and is currently under review by the Assembly Higher Education Committee.
  • Following the pilot program, the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education is required to submit reports to the Governor and Legislature assessing the program's progress and effectiveness.

Related Legislation

  • Companion Bill: S 4119, which mirrors the provisions of A 5605.

This summary provides an overview of Bill A 5605, highlighting its intent to support neurodiverse students through targeted programs and funding, ultimately fostering a more inclusive educational environment in New Jersey's county colleges.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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