The bill proposes the merger of New Jersey City University (NJCU) with Kean University, establishing the "Kean University - New Jersey City University Merger Act." This legislation is a response to NJCU's financial instability, which has resulted in a structural deficit and the appointment of a fiscal monitor. The merger aims to preserve NJCU's mission and enhance educational opportunities for students in Hudson County, with NJCU ceasing to exist as a separate entity and becoming an additional location of Kean University. All rights, assets, and obligations of NJCU will be transferred to Kean University, including appropriations, grants, and debts.

The bill outlines provisions regarding personnel and governance, including the treatment of NJCU employees as new employees of Kean University while retaining their rights and benefits. It specifies that former NJCU faculty members will not retain seniority but will maintain tenure and academic rank. The legislation also amends existing laws to reflect the merger, reducing the number of state colleges from six to five and including Kean University in various operational provisions. Additionally, it introduces new governance requirements, such as having at least one voting board member from Hudson County and updating financial thresholds for public contracts. The bill aims to streamline university operations while ensuring compliance with state laws and protecting employee interests.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:64-45, 18A:64-46, 18A:64O-7, 18A:64O-8, 18A:64O-9, 18A:64O-11, 18A:64O-13, 18A:64O-16, 18A:64O-21, 18A:64O-24, 18A:71-30