NJ A2970

Public institutions of higher education in New Jersey must provide equivalent scholarships to student-athletes whose athletic scholarships are not renewed due to incapacitating injuries or illnesses sustained while participating in intercollegiate athletics.

The institution's medical staff must determine the student-athlete is medically ineligible to participate in intercollegiate athletics for the equivalent scholarship requirement to apply.

Equivalent scholarships, combined with any previous athletic scholarships, are guaranteed for up to five academic years total or until the student completes their undergraduate degree, whichever is shorter.

Institutions may provide equivalent scholarships beyond the five-year maximum at their discretion.

The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment and applies to student-athletes at public colleges and universities participating in intercollegiate athletic programs.