The Jersey Strong Public Service Scholarship Program Act establishes a scholarship program aimed at supporting students employed in public service sectors facing critical workforce shortages. The program, administered by the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, will provide scholarships to eligible students who meet specific criteria, including being a resident of New Jersey, a U.S. citizen, and having graduated from a high school in the state. Eligible students can receive scholarships for up to $25,000 for two academic years after completing one year of full-time employment, or up to $50,000 for four academic years after completing two years of full-time employment in designated public service sectors.
The bill outlines the responsibilities of the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development to create a list of eligible public service sectors, which may include roles in hospitals, public schools, and as first responders. It also details the conditions under which scholarships may be terminated, including academic dismissal or withdrawal without approval, and specifies that any excess scholarship funds beyond the cost of attendance may be returned to the student. The program is set to take effect immediately and will first apply to the academic year following its enactment.