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 based on their full-time employment duration in designated public service sectors, with awards of up to $25,000 for two academic years or $50,000 for four academic years, depending on the length of employment.

The bill also mandates 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. To maintain scholarship eligibility, participants must continue to meet residency and academic requirements, and they may be required to repay the scholarship if dismissed from their educational institution for academic or disciplinary reasons. However, if a participant withdraws due to illness or family emergencies with prior approval, they will not be required to repay the scholarship. The program aims to alleviate workforce shortages in critical public service areas while providing financial support for higher education.