S 2532 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to appoint special auditor to investigate claims of abuse of public funds at public institutions of higher education.

This bill requires New Jersey's Secretary of Higher Education to appoint a special auditor to investigate complaints about misuse of public funds at public colleges and universities. Anyone can file a formal complaint, triggering a 90-day investigation where the auditor reviews evidence, determines if "probable cause" exists, and issues a written finding. If abuse is confirmed, the involved entity must repay misused funds plus a fine equal to 125% of the investigation cost, with fines funding future audits. The bill also prohibits retaliation against whistleblowers who report fund misuse or provide information during investigations.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Higher Education Committee
upper
0 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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