Legislation designed to alleviate the burden of tuition costs for apprenticeships and enhance access to career-building opportunities cleared the Assembly Labor Committee today. Bill A513, sponsored by Assembly Democrats Wayne P. DeAngelo and Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, would provide a tuition fee waiver for eligible individuals who are participating in registered apprenticeship programs at public institutions of higher education or county vocational schools in New Jersey.
“This bill will empower individuals to participate in classroom training, removing financial obstacles and promoting their personal development, ultimately cultivating a more skilled and competitive workforce,” said Assemblyman DeAngelo (D-Mercer, Middlesex). “By investing in our apprentice workers and their education, we will drive economic progress and innovation across the state of New Jersey.”
To qualify, applicants must ensure their employer does not cover tuition, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), exhaust all financial aid options, and maintain employment as an active registered apprentice under the registered apprenticeship program, while meeting academic progress standards for tuition waiver renewal.
“Apprenticeships are crucial for providing hands-on experience, and tuition-free courses will offer aspiring professionals an opportunity to commence their educational journey and get this experience without financial constraints,” said Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson (D-Mercer, Hunterdon). “The proposed legislation will open the door to many opportunities for individuals with limited resources, ensuring fair access to education and paving the way for a more robust and dynamic workforce.”
Under the bill, a person would be eligible for tuition fee waivers if that individual’s gross aggregate household income at the time of admission to a New Jersey public institution of higher education or county vocational school is below the State household median income.