This bill amends existing New Jersey law to extend tuition benefits at public institutions of higher education to residents who are members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces of the United States, as well as to their children and surviving spouses. Specifically, it allows these individuals to attend regularly-scheduled courses and receive up to 16 credits per semester tuition-free, provided they meet certain criteria, including completion of Initial Active Duty Training and enrollment in good standing at the institution. The bill also clarifies that members of the reserve components include those from the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Marine Reserve, Air Force Reserve, and Coast Guard Reserve.

Key amendments include the addition of definitions for "member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States" and the eligibility criteria for tuition benefits. The bill stipulates that the State will reimburse public institutions for tuition costs not covered by federal benefits, and it ensures that children or surviving spouses of members killed in the line of duty are also eligible for these benefits. The legislation takes effect immediately and will first apply to the academic year following its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:62-23, 18A:62-24, 18A:62-25, 18A:62-24.1, 18A:62-25.1