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New Jersey lawmakers have introduced a bill that would limit annual tuition increases to 2% at the state's public colleges and universities. This move follows the Rutgers University Board of Governors' decision to raise tuition by 4% for the 2024-2025 academic year. As a result, students at Rutgers, the largest university in the state, will now pay an average of $7,111 per semester, up from $6,837, for a typical Bachelor of Arts degree.
"We are committed to providing access to an excellent academic experience and this budget reflects that commitment while meeting our financial responsibilities,” said Amy Towers, board chair at Rutgers.
The proposed legislation, introduced by state Assemblyman Cody Miller and two other lawmakers, aims to protect students from dramatic tuition increases. However, it would only apply to public two- and four-year colleges and universities, not private institutions. The bill is currently under consideration in the state Legislature.