Donlon Bill Increasing Tuition Credits For Volunteer First Responders Advances

Assemblywoman Margie Donlon, M.D.

TRENTON – In an effort to provide increased support for New Jersey’s volunteer first responders, the Assembly Higher Education Committee advanced a bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Margie Donlon (D-Monmouth) that raises the amount of tuition credits available under the state’s Volunteer Tuition Credit Program.

Bill A3533, sponsored by Assemblywoman Margie Donlon, M.D., Assemblyman Cody Miller, and Assemblyman Benjie E. Wimberly, aims to enhance educational benefits for volunteers by raising the maximum tuition credits from $2,400 to $5,000 for members of volunteer fire companies and first aid or rescue squads, as well as their spouses and dependent children. Under the bill, volunteers who serve for at least four years can receive up to $1,250 in annual tuition credits—more than double the current $600 limit. Over the course of their service, these volunteers can accumulate up to $5,000 in tuition credits, which can be applied toward county colleges, vocational schools, and technical institutes.

“The individuals who volunteer their time to protect our communities as firefighters and first responders deserve recognition for their sacrifices,” said Assemblywoman Donlon. “This legislation not only acknowledges their invaluable service but also ensures greater access to higher education for them and their families. In a time when affordability is a pressing concern for so many, expanding tuition credits is a meaningful step toward helping our first responders advance personally while continuing to serve our communities.”

This bill is part of a broader initiative by the Legislative District 11 team of Senator Vin Gopal, Assemblywoman Margie Donlon, and Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul to address the statewide shortage of volunteer first responders. New Jersey’s increasing reliance on volunteer firefighters and EMTs has led to a statewide shortage, compounded by a rise in emergency calls. While first responders are motivated by their commitment to serve, financial burdens remain a significant concern. If this shortage persists, municipalities may be forced to hire paid personnel or regionalize emergency services, which could increase costs for local property taxpayers.

The bill now heads to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

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Assemblywoman Dr. Margie Donlon, a practicing physician, serves on the Assembly Health and the Tourism, Gaming & the Arts Committees. Assemblywoman Donlon represent residents of Allenhurst, Asbury Park, Bradley Beach, Colts Neck, Deal, Eatontown, Fair Haven, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Interlaken, Loch Arbour, Long Branch, Neptune City, Neptune Township, Ocean Township, Red Bank, Shrewsbury Borough, Shrewsbury Township, and Tinton Falls in the State Assembly.