Legislation sponsored by Assembly Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald and Assembly Democrats Cleopatra Tucker, Gordon M. Johnson, Daniel Benson and Wayne P. DeAngelo to encourage veterans and members of the military to pursue higher education goals was advanced Monday by an Assembly committee.
“These are real-life heroes who too often come home to face financial troubles despite their great sacrifice to our nation,” said Greenwald (D-Camden/Burlington). “A college education is the gateway to a better future, so this simple step is the right thing to do for our veterans and members of the Armed Forces.”
“Those who serve in our military deserve every break we can give them for their enduring service to our country,” said Tucker (D-Essex). “An opportunity to further their education will help them to continue making invaluable contributions to our country.”
“Our veterans and military are the pride of our nation,” said Johnson (D-Bergen) “These men and women have defended our freedom with bravery and courage. Let’s do what we can to help them achieve their academic goals.”
The bill (A-1757) would require public institutions of higher education to waive or reimburse their application fees and fees for the receipt or transmission of a transcript for veterans, members of the Armed Forces of the United States, the Reserve components thereof or members of the New Jersey National Guard who reside in New Jersey and accept admission to a public institution of higher education.
“Members of our military place their lives on the line so that each of us may have the privilege to live as we choose,” said Benson (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “We now have an opportunity to show our gratitude by relieving some of the financial burden that comes with pursuing a higher education.”
“For their sacrifice and dedication, our military deserves any advantage we can provide to encourage their endeavors in higher education,” said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “A simple yet meaningful action, this bill would extend a well-earned courtesy to our most honorable New Jersey citizens.”
The bill was released by the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, of which Tucker is chair and DeAngelo is vice-chair.