Bill > S2823

This bill, intended to benefit veterans, establishes a program offering up to 60 tuition-free credits at the county college located within the veteran's county of residence. To qualify, a "veteran" is defined as a citizen and resident of New Jersey who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or its Reserve components and received an honorable discharge. The veteran must be accepted into a course of study and be in good standing at their local county college. Crucially, before receiving these tuition-free credits, the veteran must first apply for all available state and federal student grants and scholarships, as well as any tuition benefits they are eligible for through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically mentioning the "Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008" (a federal law providing educational benefits to veterans). However, this requirement for applying for VA benefits is waived if the veteran is transferring those benefits, as allowed by federal law. Any credits awarded by the college for military experience will count towards the 60-credit limit. The college's financial aid office will be responsible for informing veterans about potential grant and scholarship opportunities, and while tuition is free, the college may still charge other fees, subject to approval by the State Treasurer. This act will become effective immediately and apply to the academic year following its enactment.