SENATE HIGHER EDUCATION COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE, No. 2385

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  FEBRUARY 10, 2025

      The Senate Higher Education Committee favorably reports Senate Bill No. 2385.

      This bill increases the tuition credit amount permitted under the volunteer tuition credit program.

      Under current law, certain persons who are active members of a volunteer fire company or volunteer first aid or rescue squad or association in good standing and the person’s dependent children and spouse are permitted to enroll in a postsecondary program on a tuition-free basis in a county college, county vocational school or county technical institution and be eligible to receive tuition credit in an amount not to exceed a maximum of $2,400 provided the person agrees to serve as a member of a volunteer fire company or volunteer first aid or rescue squad or association for a minimum of four years of service.  Current law provides for a tuition credit of up to $600 following each year of service not to exceed a maximum of $2,400 for the member, dependent, and spouse over a four-year service period.

      This bill increases the tuition credit amount from $600 to $1,250 per year of service, not to exceed a maximum of $5,000 for the member, dependent, and spouse over a four-year service period.