NJ A452

Creates an Ombudsman of Student Discipline position within the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to ensure students receive fair and impartial treatment during institutional disciplinary processes

The ombudsman will accept and review student requests for information, assistance during disciplinary hearings, and reviews of completed hearings, prioritizing time-sensitive matters and cases involving potential suspension, dismissal, or disqualification

The ombudsman may investigate alleged violations, how disciplinary processes are conducted, and sanctions imposed, then submit findings to the student, disciplinary board, and institution's governing board

Institutions must notify the ombudsman whether they will modify disciplinary processes or penalties if findings indicate unclear conduct codes, inadequate due process protections, or unduly harsh penalties

The ombudsman must publish a list identifying which institutions agree to accept and respond to findings and which do not, taking effect 90 days after enactment