This bill establishes the Scientific Conference Grant Program within the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education in New Jersey. The program is designed to provide financial support to public institutions of higher education that host scientific conferences and seminars in the state. It allocates $250,000 from the General Fund to fund the program, with grants intended to cover costs associated with hosting these events, such as event space and speaker-related expenses, including fees, honoraria, travel, and lodging. However, the grants cannot be used for food costs or other vendor expenses unrelated to the event space.

Public institutions of higher education interested in receiving a grant must submit an application to the Secretary of Higher Education. This application must include a description and preliminary agenda for the conference or seminar, the names and credentials of invited speakers, and relevant cost information. The amounts awarded will be determined by the secretary based on the applications received. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.