Provides for merger of New Jersey City University with Kean University; expands powers and property of Kean University; appropriates $25 million.*

This bill merges New Jersey City University (NJCU) into Kean University, ending NJCU's existence as a separate institution after required approvals. It appropriates $25 million to support the merger process and expands Kean University's authority to manage the combined institution's properties and operations. The merger follows NJCU's 2022 financial crisis (a $22 million deficit) and a 2025 agreement between the universities to preserve access to higher education for NJCU students and Hudson County communities. After the merger, NJCU will operate as an additional campus under Kean University, with Kean assuming all responsibilities.