New Jersey Senators Oppose Governor Murphy’s Proposed Higher Education Budget Cuts
New Jersey state senators have expressed strong opposition to Governor Phil Murphy’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget, which includes a $20 million reduction in operating aid for community colleges. This cut, representing a 12% decrease, would reverse the previous year’s funding increase and bring state support back to fiscal year 2023 levels. (njcommunitycolleges.org)
Senator Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth) criticized the budget, highlighting a $2 billion drop in the state’s surplus and changes to school funding that could result in over 100 schools receiving less state aid. He described the budget as a "betrayal" of the state’s business community. (newjerseymonitor.com)
Senator Parker Space (R-Morris) and Assemblyman Michael Inganamort (R-Morris) called for the reinstatement of the $20 million cut, emphasizing the vital role community colleges play in workforce development and the need for fair funding to prevent potential tuition increases and negative impacts on students. (morrisfocus.com)
The New Jersey Council of County Colleges also voiced concerns, stating that the proposed reduction jeopardizes the operation of the state’s 18 community colleges, which serve over 230,000 residents and support key industries. They warned that colleges may be forced to raise tuition, cut programs, and reduce staffing. (njcommunitycolleges.org)
As the state legislature reviews the budget, these lawmakers and educational leaders continue to advocate for the restoration of funding to ensure the sustainability and growth of New Jersey’s community colleges.
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