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Bill

RA

Bill

A 2161

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

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Reginald Atkins and 5 co-sponsors

New Jersey public universities must waive application and transcript fees for veterans and military members to reduce enrollment barriers for transitioning service members.

Reported and Referred to Assembly Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · A 2161

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 2161 mandates that New Jersey's public colleges and universities eliminate application fees and transcript fees for veterans and military members. The bill aims to reduce financial barriers for service members seeking higher education by eliminating two commonly charged administrative fees.

Why is this important

Veterans often face economic challenges during transition to civilian life and education, and application/transcript fees—while individually small—can accumulate across multiple school applications. Removing these barriers could increase college enrollment among the veteran population and support workforce development in a state with a significant military presence.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to institutions: Public universities would absorb lost revenue from these fees, which could impact budgets unless offset by state appropriations; some smaller institutions may feel disproportionate impact
  • Definition scope: Bill language may need clarification on who qualifies (active duty, reserves, National Guard, discharged veterans, family members) and verification procedures to prevent abuse
  • Incomplete solution: While reducing barriers, fee waivers alone don't address larger affordability issues like tuition costs, living expenses, and childcare that may still prevent enrollment

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

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