This bill amends existing law to establish requirements for high school students in New Jersey regarding financial aid applications and the handling of waivers. Starting with the 2023-2024 grade 11 class, students and their parents or guardians must complete a financial aid application to receive a high school diploma, unless a waiver is submitted. The bill specifies that the waiver form must only require minimal personal information, such as the student's name, contact details, and signature. Additionally, it allows school counselors to authorize waivers if parental consent cannot be obtained for students under 18.

Importantly, the bill introduces strict limitations on the use and disclosure of waivers and personal information contained within them. School districts and charter schools are prohibited from using or disclosing this information without the informed consent of the student or their parent or guardian, in accordance with federal and state privacy laws. The Department of Education is tasked with ensuring that waiver templates include clear language about these privacy protections. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that it does not invalidate any waivers submitted before its effective date, ensuring that prior submissions remain protected under the new provisions.