NJ S4021

Requires the New Jersey Council of County Colleges to submit an annual budget request for State support of county colleges to the State Treasurer, Secretary of Higher Education, Governor, and Legislature, aligned with strategic priorities

Mandates the council develop a performance-based formula for distributing State operational aid to county colleges, ensuring equitable, results-oriented, and transparent funding, with recommended improvements submitted every three years

Expands council responsibilities to include developing a biennial strategic plan aligned with State educational and economic priorities, serving as an advisory body to the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, and coordinating collaboration among colleges on student success and institutional advancement

Requires the council to maintain a Statewide general education framework, approve credit courses for State aid calculations, and partner with employers, schools, labor unions, and community organizations on the New Jersey Pathways to Career Opportunities Initiative

Authorizes the council to provide contract services to State agencies and assist in administering federal Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act funds to county colleges