Gopal Bill Expanding Veteran Access to Vocational Education Signed into Law

Trenton – Legislation sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal that will provide in-State tuition for veterans attending vocational schools in New Jersey regardless of their state of residence, was signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy.

“Our veterans have made incredible sacrifices and put their lives on the line for our country, but they’re all too often unable to find work after leaving the military,” said Gopal (D-Monmouth). “With this law, we will give our faithful service members a leg up on getting the education they need to transition back into civilian life and build a successful career.”

S-3789, now law, allows veterans who are entitled to educational assistance under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to be able to qualify for in-State tuition for vocational schools. The law also extends the coverage of the “New Jersey Tuition Equality for America’s Military (NJTEAM) Act” to include vocational schools and work assistance programs. Educational assistance funds will be able to be used to cover the expenses of books, course fees and other program materials.

“New Jersey has a vibrant and growing vocational sector, and I believe that our veterans can be powerful leaders for economic growth and prosperity, if we can only give them the resources to succeed,” Gopal added. “It’s time to pay back our veterans for their service to our nation, and make this excellent program fairer and more accessible to these brave men and women.”