Bill > S4162

This bill establishes requirements for financial aid application submission for high school students in New Jersey, beginning with the 2023-2024 grade 11 class. Students will be required to complete and submit a financial aid application prescribed by the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority as a prerequisite for receiving a high school diploma, unless they obtain a waiver. Students or parents can request a waiver by submitting a simple form with minimal personal information, and for students under 18 who cannot obtain parental consent, a school counselor may authorize the waiver. The bill mandates that school districts and charter schools provide annual notifications about this requirement and ensures no adverse action can be taken against students who receive a waiver. Importantly, the bill includes strict privacy protections, prohibiting schools from using or disclosing waiver information without informed consent and consistent with federal educational privacy laws like FERPA. The Higher Education Student Assistance Authority is required to provide resources to help students and schools understand the financial aid application process, and must prepare a report tracking the number of completed forms and waivers within three years of the act's implementation. The legislation aims to increase student awareness and access to financial aid while maintaining student privacy and offering flexibility through the waiver process.

Education

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4162