TRENTON, N.J. — A state-funded program that has helped thousands of low-income students afford college classes during the summer may be on the chopping block as New Jersey lawmakers negotiate the next state budget.
The Summer Tuition Aid Grant — an extension of the state’s regular Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) program — has allowed students to take summer courses at reduced or no cost. Since its launch two years ago, the initiative has supported roughly 24,000 students. However, Governor Phil Murphy’s proposed $58.3 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year does not include money to continue the summer aid program.
During recent budget hearings, higher education leaders urged lawmakers to allocate $30 million to keep the Summer TAG program active in 2026. The request comes amid broader concerns from colleges about shrinking financial support from both state and federal governments.
Budget talks continue as deadline nears
The state Legislature has until the end of June to finalize the budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1. While Murphy has emphasized record-high spending and over $1 billion in new revenue from proposed taxes and fees, his administration has also signaled a need to reduce spending in certain areas, citing a challenging fiscal environment.
The fate of Summer TAG remains uncertain as education advocates push to keep the program alive for another year. Without legislative intervention, this summer may be the last in which students can use the grants to afford year-round learning.
